SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has announced its extensive line-up of new attractions, shows and events for 2017. The announcement includes major new attractions at SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld California and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Kraken Virtual Reality (VR), SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld introduces the companies first digitally enhanced ride experience – and the only virtual reality (VR) experience in Florida – coming summer 2017. SeaWorld legendary Kraken roller coaster will be transformed into a VR coaster experience, taking riders on a mission alongside sea creatures inspired by extinct and legendary animals of the past. A custom digital overlay with headsets fully integrated into the coaster train lets guests experience Kraken like never before.
Dolphin Nursery, SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld's Dolphin Nursery will become more interactive in 2017, giving guests the opportunity to get up close to mother and baby dolphins in all new ways. Large-scale acrylic windows for better guest viewing, multiple levels to give kids a face-to-face view with baby dolphins and new slide out areas for easier access to mum and baby for the veterinary and animal care teams are just some of the enhancements.
Rudolph & Friends, SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld California and Busch Gardens
Beloved Christmas character Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends, including Clarice, Bumble, the Abominable Snow Monster and Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph themed attractions will be making their debut as part of the 2016 Christmas Celebration™ at SeaWorld Orlando, and California, and Christmas Town™ at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Rudolph & Friends will return for the 2017 season, with additional Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer-themed experiences for families to enjoy the Christmas spirit even more.
Ocean Explorer, SeaWorld California
Ocean Explorer, a new 3-acre realm, will combine multiple aquariums, exciting rides and digital technologies and open at SeaWorld California next summer. The area is designed to engage park guests in an experience centred on exploration and adventure, inspiring them to protect the wonders of our oceans. In the signature attraction for the realm, Submarine Quest, guests will be adventurers on a global expedition of scientific exploration, travelling aboard submarines to see Ocean Explorer’s remarkable undersea animals.
Orca Encounter, SeaWorld California
SeaWorld San Diego will introduce new, inspiring and educational orca encounters as part of its ongoing commitment to education, marine science research, and rescue of marine animals. These programmes will focus on orca enrichment, exercise, and overall health. This change will start in its California park next year, followed by Orlando and then San Antonio by 2019. This new Orca Encounter will have the feel of a live documentary and will inspire as well as educate while underscoring SeaWorld’s commitment to conservation, research, rescue, and care for orcas.
