An adult male manatee brought to SeaWorld Orlando on Saturday, Aug. 31, by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to recover and receive care for its watercraft injuries. The manatee was found in the Tomoka River near Daytona Beach, Fla.
SeaWorld Orlando Now Caring for
Male Manatee Rescued
Near Daytona Beach, Florida
A male manatee brought to SeaWorld Orlando on Saturday, Aug. 31, by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission continues to recover and receive care for watercraft injuries. SeaWorld veterinarians performed radiographs to see if there were internal injuries to the spine and chest. The manatee was found in the Tomoka River near Daytona Beach, Fla.
Estimated to be approximately 8.75 feet in length and weighing around 680 pounds, the manatee was rescued because he had watercraft injuries and was suffering from a pneumothorax, likely caused by the watercraft injuries. When a manatee has a pneumothorax its body cavity fills with air and it cannot stay submerged.
A SeaWorld Veterinarian monitors the condition of a rescued adult male manatee. He is suffering from watercraft injuries and pneumothorax, likely a result of the watercraft injuries. Pneumothorax causes the body cavity to fill with air and the manatee cannot stay submerged.
Today SeaWorld Orlando animal care experts took radiographs of the manatee’s chest cavity and performed a “chest tap” to relieve the animal of built up pressure and air. He also was given antibiotics. The manatee is in guarded condition and will be monitored closely during the next few days.
So far in 2013, SeaWorld has rescued 15 and returned 8 manatees back to their natural habitat. In collaboration with the government and other members of accredited stranding networks, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment operates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue ill and injured marine animals, with the goal to rehabilitate and return to the ocean. SeaWorld animal experts have helped more than 22,000 animals in need – ill, injured, orphaned and abandoned – for more than four decades.
Animal care experts took radiographs of the adult male manatee’s chest cavity to see if there were internal injuries to the spine and chest after he received watercraft injuries. The manatee is in guarded condition and will be monitored closely during the next few days.
All manatee rescue footage produced by SeaWorld under FWS Permit Number MA7701911.
If you see injured marine animal, you can help by calling the FWC hotline at 1(888) 404-3922 or by dialing *FWC on a cellular device.
Celebrity wildlife expert Jack Hanna returns to SeaWorld Orlando on September 14-15 for Jack Hanna Weekend, accompanied by many of the world’s most amazing animal ambassadors.
Included with park admission, this special limited-time series takes place at Nautilus Theater on Saturday, September 14, and Sunday, September 15. Shows will be at 1:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Recognized around the world for his boundless enthusiasm for animals and conservation, “Jungle Jack” helps us share in his wondrous connection to wildlife and the world we share. Hanna’s past “co-stars” have included clouded leopards, chatty kookaburras, penguins and majestic eagles.
NEW: Dinner with Jack Hanna – September 14 & 15, 5:00 p.m.
Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet dinner at Dine with Shamu®, where they will mingle with Jack Hanna and meet his animal friends up-close. This VIP dinner offers a delicious menu, while “Jungle Jack” entertains guests with animal facts, tales of his adventures and answers questions from attendees. Additionally, guests will receive one complimentary family photo with Jack, one complimentary adult beverage (for guests 21 and over) and special reserved seats at the 3:15 p.m. show. Cost is $59 for adults, $49 for children ages 3-9. Children under 3 are free but require a reservation. Pass Members receive 10% discount.
Breakfast with Jack Hanna at Sharks Underwater Grill® – September 14 & 15, 9:00 a.m.
Meet Jack Hanna and his animal friends up-close during a special breakfast at Sharks Underwater Grill®. This VIP experience features a hearty breakfast, while “Jungle Jack” teaches guests about some of his animal friends, speaks about his animal encounters and answers questions from those in attendance. Guests will receive one complimentary family photo with Jack and special reserved seats at the 1:15 p.m. show. Cost is $49 for adults, $39 for children ages 3-9. Children under 3 are free but require a reservation. Pass Members receive 10% discount.
To learn more about Jack Hanna Weekend and all of SeaWorld Orlando’s events, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com and follow us on Facebook.
About Jack Hanna
Animal expert Jungle Jack Hanna’s hands-on approach has won him widespread acclaim as Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, conservationist, author, television personality, and lifelong adventurer. Recognized around the country as America’s favorite zookeeper, Jack has made countless television appearances since 1983 on shows such as Good Morning America, The Late Show with David Letterman, Larry King Live, The Talk, The Maury Show, Fox News Programs, and CNN News Programs. He is the host of TV’s Emmy award winning Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild and Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown. For more information, visit www.jackhanna.com
Everyone loves weekends, but SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Tampa now have a reason to celebrate the weekdays, too. Guests can explore Antarctica: Empire of the PenguinTM and the wonders of the sea at SeaWorld Orlando, or experience thrilling attractions and amazing land animals at Busch Gardens Tampa with the all-new $50 Weekday Ticket, on sale August 1 through December 20, 2013, for $50 for a single-day admission, Mondays through Fridays.
At SeaWorld Orlando’s new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, families are transported into an icy world like they’ve never seen before where they can explore the majestic grandeur of the South Pole and see it through the penguins’ eyes on a first-of-its-kind family ride. Then, guests step off and explore a massive penguin colony of nearly 250 feathered friends – gentoo, rockhopper, Adélie and king penguins — in an expanse that envelops them in cool extremes, both above and below the penguins’ icy world. It’s a must-see, one-of-a-kind experience only at SeaWorld Orlando.
Busch Gardens Tampaoffers an unparalleled mix of animal encounters, captivating shows and thrilling rides. Dive like a bird of prey aboard the thrilling coaster SheiKra. Soar like an eagle, roar like a tiger, and discover shared family fun playing with your littlest ones at Sesame Street’s Safari of Fun. And, nowhere is the spirit of discovery more alive than on Cheetah Hunt, the breathtaking, multilaunch coaster sprinting across the Serengeti.
The $50 Weekday Ticket for SeaWorld and Busch Gardens is available online to U.S. residents at SeaWorldOrlando.comorBuschGardensTampa.com or by calling (888) 800-5447. The $50 Weekday Ticket is valid for one weekday’s admission to either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa and must be used by Friday, December 20, 2013.
For an additional $25, guests may add a day’s visit to Aquatica Orlando with the purchase of the SeaWorld Orlando Weekday ticket, or add a day’s visit to Adventure Island Tampa with the purchase of the Busch Gardens Tampa Weekday Ticket. Guests may only purchase the additional visit to a waterpark with the purchase of the $50 Weekday Ticket.
About SeaWorld Orlando Immerse yourself in wonder at SeaWorld® Orlando, where the aquatic world comes alive like no place else. Climb aboard and ride the mighty Manta®. Experience the power and grace of killer whales in the awe-inspiring Shamu® show One Ocean®. Share an epic voyage with sea turtles on the 3D 360 TurtleTrek®. And there’s nothing cooler than to see the world through the eyes of a penguin in the thrilling, chilling adventure of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™. An ocean of fun is waiting to be explored right here at SeaWorld Orlando. Jump in and dive deep.
About Busch Gardens Tampa Busch Gardens® Tampa is the ultimate family adventure, offering 297 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. A unique blend of thrilling rides, one of the country’s premier zoos with more than 12,000 animals, live shows, restaurants, shops and games, Busch Gardens Tampa provides unrivaled excitement for guests of every age.
Celebrate Independence Day at SeaWorld Orlando with a special Fourth of July extravaganza and even more Summer Nights fun next Thursday, July 4!
During Summer Nights, SeaWorld Orlando is open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. so there’s plenty of time to explore the sea’s mysteries, learn about amazing animals, challenge thrilling rides and watch incredible shows.
What better way to celebrate the holiday than with traditional American fare? From July 3-6, a variety of all-American food will be served along Bayside Pathway, including bacon cheeseburgers, foot-long hot dogs, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and kid meals, too.
And guests can enjoy the park even later on the Fourth of July. SeaWorld Orlando will be open until 11 p.m. giving families more time to experience the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, ride the coasters under the stars and enjoy the amazing Summer Nights shows, Sea Lions Tonite and Shamu Rocks.
There’s no other place to get your fireworks fix than at SeaWorld’s Fourth of July celebration during Summer Nights!
Beginning at 9:30 p.m., there will be an extraordinary performance at SeaWorld’s Bayside Stadium by SeaWorldCelebration Singers, an ensemble group of singersandanine-piece band, who will perform a variety of popular music ranging from traditional marches and patriotic tunes to classical favorites. The Fourth of July celebration culminates with awe-inspiring fireworks at 10 p.m.
Additional details:
Headlining Summer Nights is the all-new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, where guests can experience the epic world of Antarctica through the eyes of a special hero penguin named Puck; and Sea Lions Tonite, a hilarious, satirical show featuring Clyde and Seamore spoofing the other daytime SeaWorld shows that will have everyone in stitches.
New this year! Join the Party with Shamu & Friends as they dance the night away at the front of the park’s Village Square. The Party features an emcee on stilts who fills the square with music that the whole family can dance to, including popular line dancing songs and party favorites. With countless bubbles floating overhead and music wafting through the air, this celebration of summer is sure to provide non-stop fun for all ages! The Party begins every night one hour prior to park close and continues 30 minutes after park closing.
Rock the night away with Shamu during a spectacular killer whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert! Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring killer whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry. And new this year is an electrifying twist on this classic favorite! The final Shamu Rocks show of the night includes a rockin’ fireworks finale will light up the night sky.
Sunday we got to visit Seaworld Orlando as they premiered their Summer nights 2013! After signing in we were split into two groups, one group were to go experience the recently added Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin, and the other group was invited to try the new Expedition Cafe.
We were part of the group to eat first, so we were led to the cafe to see our options. Being a vegetarian I was quite happy to see quite a few options for a range of different diets! There was plenty of seating and guests were able to chose to sit outside or inside with AC.
Expedition Cafe
Once dinner was over we were lead by our guide over to the Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin ride. We were so excited as we had not had the opportunity to ride this yet, so we had no idea what to expect from it! As we were walking to the ride, the surrounding skies seemed perfect, as they were getting a little gray so walking amongst the ice berg scenery seemed pretty magical juxtaposed amongst the gray gloomy sky!
Our guide told us that after the ride is when you get to see the actual penguin habitat. She informed us that the whole queuing system has been specially designed to help moderate guests body temperature as they go through the different stages. Guests are typically hot and possibly a bit damp from the humid Florida weather in summer here, and the penguin habitat can be quite shocking at a mere 30 degrees. So without ever really noticing it, each stage of the ride’s queue actually gets progressively cooler to dry you off and cool you down bit by bit, so that when you finally enter the habitat at the end, your body wont be as shocked.
The ride features a penguin family and more specifically a baby penguin named Puck, and it is Puck that we follow on his adventures into adulthood throughout the ride. At the beginning guests have the option to chose the “mild” version, or the “wild” version, which really just controls how much you rotate and spin during the ride. We chose the wild version as we wanted to feel the full experience for the first time on there.
Without giving away any spoilers, we really enjoyed the ride, it was a different technology that hasn’t really been used anywhere else yet. Its a cute little ride, that ultimately leads you to the most exciting part, the habitat.
The habitat is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before, as instead of being behind glass panels, you are actually IN the habitat, experiencing the same temperature and environment. The penguins are literally right in front of you in their enclosure, one little guy was even resting right under the wall we were leaning on! There are signs everywhere telling you not to touch the penguins….I can’t emphasize enough how much it makes you want to touch them with them being in touching distance! But there are handlers all around watching over them, and they were needed, as the amount of people using flash on their cameras was crazy, stop blinding the penguins people! LOL.
You can walk around the enclosure and see not only the ones resting out of the water, but even the ones swimming too! So you really do get an all-round look at their life here in the habitat.
For guests not wanting to ride, there is an access door that will take you directly in to the habitat once you get to the ride boarding area. You may find yourself waiting a moment, as these doors, just like the ride queue, help adjust your body temperature down for entering the habitat.
After the ride, we were taken to the a lake side area where we were treated to a dessert party, and a chance to talk to the other guests and to hear from one of the organizers there about their Summer Nights events.
Once we had relaxed at the dessert party, we were taken to our seats in the Sea Lion and Otter Theater to see the Clyde and Seamore Show. While waiting for the stadium to fill up, we were treated to watching their Mime entertain the crowd while they were entering, which was so hilarious and really got us in the mood & ready for the show.
The Clyde & Seamore show was so much funnier than we remembered it in previous years! The show now focuses on parodies of the other attractions and shows at Seaworld currently, such as Pets Ahoy, One Ocean and even The Kraken Ride! The way they used the walrus as their “Shamu” was so entertaining and such a hit among the crowd!
Next we made it over to the Shamu Stadium for “Shamu Rocks”. This show holds a very dear place in my heart, as my Husband had proposed to me at the Shamu show on the big screen there back in 2003! This week actually marked the 10 year anniversary of when he proposed back when we lived in the UK and were just out here vacationing. So the memories came flooding back on entering the stadium, and although they don’t do proposal packages anymore on the big screen, they do still show the crowd dancing while waiting for the stadium to fill up so it felt really great to be back on that week!
The show is completely different to the one we remembered from back then, and it has obviously changed significantly over the years. The show now is very dance/rock music orientated, with many of the trainers actually participating in dance routines now as opposed to interacting with the whales. The whales have a lot of fun tricks and amazing moves, paired with all the water cannons and bright colors it really is a rock and roll show for everyone to enjoy. I do, however, miss elements of the older show where the trainers were more focused on the whales, as opposed to synchronized dancing by a guitarist on the stage and fireworks.
After the show we were invited to go experience Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin one last time, which was really fun to now do at night time as well.
On the way out of the park we walked by the “Party with Shamu and Friends”, which had recently just ended, but normally they have a DJ and characters available for photos before you leave for the night.
We were so grateful to be a part of this new celebration that Seaworld now offer this summer through to August 11th 2013. It was a lot of fun for the whole family and i plan to go back to experience more of Seaworld’s Summer Nights 2013 soon, when will you go check it out?
What makes Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, Orlando’s can’t-miss waterpark? By offering the latest and hottest deal for locals to enjoy Central Florida’s coolest beach again and again – including the After-2 p.m. Pass.
For the cost of a single day’s admission, guests can enjoy Aquatica after 2 p.m. throughout the rest of 2013. With no blackout dates and unlimited admission after 2 p.m., Orlando’s coolest beach is a hit for all ages time after time. Whether it’s tiny tots splashing around in Kata’s Kookaburra Cove®, teens sliding down Taumauta Racer® or adults relaxing on the laid-back beaches, guests can enjoy Aquatica all year long.
Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, is a one-of-a-kind waterpark that could only come from SeaWorld®. Inspired by a whimsical take on the South Seas, the park immerses guests in the playfulness of the sea, taking them in, over and under the water with the world’s most unique water rides and animal encounters.
Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark, mixes animal experiences, waters from serene to extreme, high speed waterslide thrills and wide, sandy beaches to create a day of non-stop fun.
Aquatica, SeaWorld’s WaterparkTM, After-2 p.m. Pass is $50 for children, ages 3-9, and $55 for adults.
To learn more or to buy your After-2 p.m. pass, visit AquaticaOrlando.com, call 888-800-5447, or visit our ticket counters at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Salutes Military with Waves of Honor Program
Program Provides Free Admission for Military Members and as many as Three Direct Dependents to SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens® Parks and Sesame Place®
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is honoring the men and women of the U.S. armed services through its Waves of Honor™ military salute program. The program provides free admission to the SeaWorld® and Busch Gardens® Parks, and Sesame Place® for members of U.S. armed forces and as many as three direct dependents through 2013. Waves of Honor follows Here’s to the Heroes. Created in 2001, the program has awarded more than 6.7 million theme park tickets to service members and their families.
“It has always been our honor to host members of the military and their families at our parks each year,” said Jim Atchison, President and CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Waves of Honor is our way to say ‘thank you’ to these dedicated service men and women who sacrifice so much to preserve the freedom we share in this country.”
Waves of Honor provides one complimentary admission per year to one of the SeaWorld® or Busch Gardens®Parks, Sesame Place®, Adventure Island® ,Water Country USA® or Aquatica® San Diego (weekdays only) for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.
Army Specialist Eric Espinosa and his daughter Alexis attend a special military tribute at SeaWorld® Orlando’s Shamu® Stadium in August 2012. Espinosa surprised Alexis at the park after serving a year in Afghanistan.
Any active duty military, activated or drilling reservists, or National Guardsman representing any of the five service branches is entitled to one complimentary admission to one of the participating parks under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.wavesofhonor.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a valid active military identification. All dependents 10 and older must present a valid military dependent identification for entry into the park. Dependents may take advantage of the offer without their service member, though an adult must accompany minor dependents.
SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, and SeaWorld San Diego operate year-round. The remaining parks are seasonal. Each park’s operating schedule is available online.
Inactive, standby and retired reserve members, military retirees, U.S. Merchant Marine and civilian Department of Defense workers are ineligible for the program. The program does not include Discovery Cove® in Orlando or Aquatica® Orlando. Rules of eligibility can be found at www.wavesofhonor.com and are subject to change. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment reserves the right to terminate the program.
All-new adventure allows guests to experience the sights, sounds, thrills, chills and penguins of Antarctica, through the eyes of a special penguin hero named Puck
It’s been 16 long months, but finally the penguins have returned to SeaWorld Orlando!!!!
The new realm of Antarctica is an immersive area of SeaWorld full of beautiful icebergs, a base camp that you wish you could actually visit, food for the pickiest of eaters, merchandise with a heart, and most importantly a first-of-its-kind attraction leading you to a penguin encounter you won’t soon forget!
“We’ve taken our guests and fans on astounding journeys,” says Terry Prather, SeaWorld Orlando’s president. “But no one has ever experienced what we’re bringing to Orlando this year. The first-of-its-kind ride, the cold, the wind, the thrills and danger of Antarctica, coupled with getting up close to penguins in their freezing world is something only SeaWorld can do.”
As soon as you walk into the Antarctica area, you know that you’ve traveled someplace special! There are huge icebergs, mounds of snow, beautiful carvings, and rushing winds that put a chill in the air no matter what the Florida temperature may be!
At the Expedition Café, we are all visitors to Antarctica looking for a meal to warm us up from our frigid environment. In the café, you will find American, Asian, and Italian cuisines featured in a mess hall setting where you are free from queues. There are also hydroponically grown produce and herbs, call ‘freshies’, that are incorporated into your meals. With outside seating available under canvas type sails, and two Quonset-type huts provide seating for guests dining on a mix of cooked-to-order food and quick-serve delights is comfortable.
The outside of Expedition CafeSome of the ‘freshies’ grown…today was basil!
Glacial Collections gift shop is the place to shop for anything and everything a penguin fan could ask for! The retail shop’s color scheme of black, bright yellows, oranges and whites, and the penguin-shaped displays welcome guests to browse the cache of splendid penguin-related items.
My mini-Shelley Cup That Cares!
Glacial Collections is where you can also build your very own Cup That Cares!
Also new at Antarctica are souvenir cups created by SeaWorld and Coca-Cola®. The Cup That CaresTMis a novel reusable cup program with a twist of technology: An RFID (radio frequency identification) chip embedded in each cup interacts with software at Antarctica’sCoca–ColaFreestyle dispensers to calculate CO2 and tell guests how they are being more environmentally responsible by choosing to refill and reuse. And there’s more: SeaWorld will donate $1 from each Cup That Cares purchase to the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens® Conservation Fund, a not-for-profit foundation that helps protect wildlife around the world.
And finally we come to the showpiece of Antarctica… Antarctica Empire of the Penguin!
On board a first-of-its-kind trackless, all-family adventure ride, guests become one with the storyline as they follow Puck’s, a gentoo penguin who is beyond loveable, adventures. Each mobile simulator ride car allows guests to choose one of two levels of exploration – Wild Expedition or Mild Expedition – for various degrees of ride intensity. Designers say each version has multiple variations for a feeling of unpredictability, just like the continent of Antarctica.
“When our little hero penguin learns to waddle and slide, we’ll feel what it’s like as the car moves and reacts to the storyline. When he takes his first swim or barely escapes danger, our guests will feel as if they’re right there with him,” explains Brian Morrow, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment® creative director.
“On this adventure, we learn that we’re a lot like penguins. We’ll find we need each other and our families to survive,” said Morrow.
There’s one more family SeaWorld guests can join at Antarctica … and that’s a huge family of nearly 250 penguins. Stepping off the adventure ride, guests find themselves among a colony of Adelie, gentoo, king and rockhopper penguins in a 30-degree habitat filled with wind, snow, rock and chilly water. It’s what makes Antarctica the coldest theme park attraction in Orlando. New technologies combine to create a freezing – but dry – climate, allowing guests to spend time in the penguins’ amazing world.
Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin also includes educational elements. Kids can “measure up” to all 18 species of penguins carved into the rocks in the plaza. They can engage in kid-height and kid-friendly interactive touch screens and talk with SeaWorld educators to learn more about the importance of community and how penguin colonies work together and rely on each other for survival.
I seriously don’t want to go into too much detail, because I really believe this is one attraction you must really experience to understand it’s true message and beauty.
The official Grand opening of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin will be held today, Friday, May 24th!
There will be an “Ice-cutting” ceremony beginning at 8:45 a.m. and includes a live performance by award-winning country artist Lauren Alaina, the voice of the Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin theme song.
SeaWorld Orlando will also be giving out special Antarctica bracelets for the first 700 fans through the front gate, admission is required. SeaWorld Orlando is also encouraging guests to wear black and white to show their penguin pride
If visiting SeaWorld Orlando was even remotely on your ‘To Visit’ list for your next trip to Orlando, you might want to consider moving it to the ‘Must Do’ list…I promise that you won’t regret it!
— Custom Technology Engages Guests on a Personal Level —
This penguin-shaped cup may look cute and cuddly, but it has a noble purpose: encourage guests to help the planet, one refill at a time.
In conjunction with SeaWorld®Orlando’s epic new attraction and ride Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™ opening Memorial Day weekend, SeaWorld has created the Cup That Cares— a new reusable cup program with a twist of technology. The innovative, interactive cup was designed specifically to connect with Coca-Cola Freestyle beverage dispensers in the new realm.
The new Cup That Cares engages guests in a personalized manner to reuse materials and reduce their carbon footprint. An RFID chip embedded in each Cup That Cares interacts with software at Coca-Cola Freestyle® dispensers to calculate and tell guests how they are being more environmentally responsible by choosing to reuse.
Plus, SeaWorld will donate $1 from each Cup That Cares purchase to the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens® Conservation Fund, a not-for-profit foundation that helps protect wildlife around the world.
How Does It Work?
Technology embedded in the Cup That Cares calculates the amount of CO2 each guest saves from entering the atmosphere when they choose to reuse the cup for refills at Coca-Cola Freestyle machines in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin. With each refill at the designated machines, exclusive software developed by Coca-Cola and SeaWorld serves up an onscreen message that is customized to that guest’s Cup That Cares history. The message thanks the guest for choosing to reuse, tracks how many refills the Cup That Cares has been used for, and calculates the running total of CO2 the guest has saved from entering the atmosphere.
Each refill with a reusable cup prevents the emission of approximately 27 grams of CO2.
Birds Of A Feather Conserve Together!
These penguin cups may look cute and cuddly but they have a noble purpose: encourage guests to reuse materials and reduce their carbon footprint. With each purchase of its new Cup That Cares, SeaWorld will donate $1 to the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund that helps animals around the world.
What Does It Look Like?
There are two options, both available exclusively in the new Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin attraction at SeaWorld Orlando:
Cup That Cares souvenir reusable cup – available at the two beverage stations inside the attraction for $9.99 – is adorned with photos of Puck™ and his penguin family. Puck is the hero penguin character featured throughout the new realm,
Create Cup That Cares – Guests may build their own personalized penguin-shaped character cup by choosing from more than 40 accessories such as eyes, hair, glasses, hats, bow tie, necklaces and even miniature Shamu ice cream bars and SeaWorld shopping bags. The Create A Cup That Cares will be sold in the Antarcticagift shop, and includes a free first fill at the nearby Antarctica beverage stations. Create A Cup That Cares experience starts at $15.95 with the option to add accessory items.
“Just as penguins do within their colonies, humans also can band together to make a big difference through small actions,” said Dan Brown, Chief Operating Officerof SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Aquatica Parks. “We see great potential with this new program because it encourages guests to be more aware of their actions – and reduce their carbon footprint — in an easy, fun and innovative way. Each step may be small, but it all adds up when we work together.”
Refills throughout the park for both Cup That Cares options are $.99 each.
PLUS — NEW custom Coca-Cola flavor served up only at Antarctica
The Cup That Cares concept was developed in partnership with the park’s beverage partner Coca-Cola, whose Coca-Cola Freestyle dispensers offer guests more than 100 different beverage brands. Also only in Antarctica, Coca-Cola Freestyle will offer an all-new, vanilla-infused choice — South Pole Chill™.
Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin:
The biggest expansion in SeaWorld’s history, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin opens Friday, May 24 and combines a state-of-the-art family adventure ride with up-close encounters with hundreds of penguins – kings, gentoos, Adélies and rockhoppers.
SeaWorld Orlando Annouces Partnership with Lauren Alaina to promote new attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has partnered with award-winning country artist Lauren Alaina to perform the official theme song for the new attraction at SeaWorld Orlando, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin™, opening May 24, 2013.
Alaina recorded two songs for SeaWorld, including the theme song for the ride in Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, and a remix version called “Antarctica: One World, One Family.” Alaina also will be performing the song live at SeaWorld Orlando for the attraction grand opening the week of May 24th. The remix version will be available for free download starting May 9.
Alaina is currently in the studio working on her forthcoming sophomore album, and is scheduled to perform her new single “Barefoot And Buckwild” on American Idol Thursday, May 9, airing nationwide on Fox networks.
“I have such great memories of growing up and going to SeaWorld with my family, so being a part of the theme park and their new attraction is so exciting,” says Alaina. “Recording the official theme song for the ride was so much fun – SeaWorld even brought a penguin named Pete to the studio to help inspire me!”
Georgia native Alaina captured America’s hearts when she appeared on Season 10 of American Idol. Her first album, Wildflower, debuted at no.1 on the iTunes Country chart and no.2 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart in 2011, and was the best-selling digital album by a debut country female. Alaina has been nominated for several Teen Choice and CMT Music Awards, and recently took home the Artist of the Year: New Artist trophy at the 2012 American Country Awards.
Alaina is also the Special Olympics Project UNIFY® Ambassador for North America and traveled to Pyeongchang, South Korea in January for the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games. In celebration of this partnership and their mutual support, SeaWorld will make a donation to Special Olympics. A Special Olympics athlete and family members also will receive a special visit to SeaWorld Orlando for the grand opening of Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, courtesy of Lauren Alaina.
“We’re excited to continue our strategy of expanding beyond family theme parks into different types of entertainment enterprises,” said Scott Helmstedter, Chief Creative Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “We’re so thrilled to welcome Lauren into our family and look forward to working with her on this project and many more into the future.”
For the behind-the-scenes story of Lauren Alaina recording the theme song for Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, watch an exclusive webisode at www.SeaWorldOrlando.com/Antarctica .
About SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment™ is a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable its customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. The Company owns or licenses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Shamu® and Busch Gardens®. Over its more than 50 year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind collection of approximately 67,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests. In addition to its theme parks, the company has recently begun to leverage its brands into media, entertainment and consumer products. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc., a publicly traded company (NYSE: SEAS). Copies of this and other news releases as well as additional information about SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. can be obtained online at www.seaworldentertainment.com. Shareholders and prospective investors can also register to automatically receive the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and other notices by e-mail.
About Lauren Alaina
Georgia native Lauren Alaina captured America’s hearts when she appeared on Season 10 of American Idol. Her first album, Wildflower, debuted at no.1 on the iTunes Country chart and no.2 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart in 2011, and was the best-selling digital album by a debut country female. She was also the youngest female to have her album debut that high since LeAnn Rimes 15 years prior. Alaina has been nominated for several Teen Choice and CMT Music Awards, and recently took home the Artist Of The Year: New Artist trophy at the 2012 American Country Awards. She has toured with superstars Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Sugarland. She is also the Special Olympics Project UNIFY® Ambassador for North America, and traveled to Pyeongchang, South Korea in January for the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games. Lauren is currently in the studio working on her forthcoming sophomore album. For more information, visit www.laurenalainaofficial.com or follow her on twitter @Lauren_Alaina. Lauren Alaina has partnered with SeaWorld to promote their new attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, by recording the ride’s official theme song. Lauren Alaina appears courtesy of Mercury Nashville / 19Recordings / Interscope Records.
This week’s Wordless Wednesday takes us to Shamu Stadium at Sunset at SeaWorld Orlando to visit the main whale himself during One Ocean.
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Dine with Shamu at SeaWorld Orlando is quite possibly the most unique and memorable dining experience I have ever had.
We were invited by SeaWorld Orlando to take in this experience, and my Mom, Zoe, and I had such an amazing time!
Our view for our Dine with Shamu experience
During a buffet that featured sustainable, organic, seasonal or locally grown ingredients that aim to minimize environmental impacts to animals and their habitats, we got closer than we ever expected to these beautiful and powerful whales.
The trainers work with the whales in different places of the Dine with Shamu area for everyone to get a great view.
The buffet at Dine with Shamu changes seasonally, but features seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, certified sustainable seafood, all natural grain fed Beef Sirloin, oven roasted turkey breast, 100% natural pork loin with no preservatives or additives, seasonal accompaniments, fresh breads baked daily, signature desserts.
The beverages included in the price are assorted Coca-Cola® products, hot tea, coffee, beer, and wine
On the Kid’s Buffet you’ll find some of their favorite foods! Hot dogs, sea shell pasta with vine ripe tomato marinara and meatballs, mac and cheese , seasonal fresh fruits, and vegetables are offered in addition to the regular buffet.
The service at Dine with Shamu is amazing! My Mother is diabetic, and they even made sure she had a tasty dessert!
As we were eating, we noticed that the whales were slowly began swimming beside us. This was a great opportunity to get an incredible glimpse into the interactions that occur between the SeaWorld trainers and whales.
Swimming before the fun really began
We got to watch them do fun tricks, how they are trained, conservation tips to help save ocean resources and habitats, and even learned what their favorite treats were (jell-o and ice cubes).
Zoe and one of Shamu’s trainers
One of the best parts of the Dine with Shamu experience is that it is priced extremely reasonably! Adults (Ages 10+) $29.00 Children (Ages 3-9) $19.00, and there are Annual Passholder discounts available!
This happened right next to our table…amazing!
Dine with Shamu is a behind-the-scenes experience that will increase your appreciation and knowledge of these amazing whales and their trainers. It’s only at SeaWorld Orlando, so I absolutely recommend that you take advantage of this unique dining experience during your next visit to the park!
How whales say good-bye!
Additional Dine with Shamu Information:
Children under 3 are free but require a reservation.
A SeaWorld admission ticket is required but not included.
Proof of age (21) for purchase or consumption of alcohol beverages on these premises. SeaWorld requires identification from anyone appearing 30 years of age or younger.
If you are concerned about food allergens, such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, egg or soy, please note allergens at time of booking.
Florida sales tax will be added to all taxable items.
Dine with Shamu will be refunded if cancelled 24 hours in advance of the scheduled dine.
All events are subject to change and/or cancellation due to animal availability.
Events are not cancelled due to inclement weather; programs will still be offered except in the event of lightning.
Saturdays are hotter than ever at SeaWorld Orlando during Viva la Música, Central Florida’s can’t-miss Latin food and concert festival, April 13 through May 4.
Come celebrate the food, fun, sights and sounds of Latin culture at this annual festival, featuring live concerts by internationally renowned Latin musical artists, all included with park admission.
Enjoy savory Latin cuisine prepared by SeaWorld Orlando’s Executive Chef, Héctor Colón. With more than 20 years experience – and a lifetime enjoying countless Caribbean and Latin dishes – Chef Héctor Colόn has added his touch to the traditional Latin favorites such as arroz con gandules, arroz con pollo, habichuelas rojas y maduros, churrasco, ceviche, alcapurrias and bacalaítos.
As with all SeaWorld special events, performances are included with daily admission, Fun Card or annual pass. Viva la Música festival activities begin at 12 p.m. each Saturday, with concerts starting at 3 p.m. at Bayside Stadium:
Saturday, April 13 – Daddy Yankee (reggaeton)
Saturday, April 20 – Willie Colón (salsa)
Saturday, April 27 – Grupománia (merengue)
Saturday, May 4 – El Gran Combo (salsa)
El Gran Combo
Concerts are general seating. However, reserved seating for your favorite concerts is available with the Viva la Música VIP Package.Starting at$24, this special package includes a meal (entrée and any one item from a selection of side salads, side dishes or desserts, plus a regular-sized non-alcoholic beverage) at any Viva la Música food sampling area or SeaWorld cafeteria-style restaurant, plus reserved seating — Center Stage! VIP seating can be purchased separately starting at $14. Both packages are available at SeaWorldOrlando.com.
The best way to experience Viva la Música is with a 2013 SeaWorld Fun Card – you can pay for a day and come back all year through Dec. 31, 2013, to enjoy unlimited admission to all SeaWorld Orlando special events. Plus, with a Fun Card, you can experience Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, SeaWorld Orlando’s newest, must-see attraction opening May 24, as many times as you’d like! SeaWorld’s Antarctica will transport families into a rarely seen, icy world. You’ll feel the majestic grandeur of the South Pole and see it through the penguins’ eyes on an exhilarating, first-of-its-kind family ride.
For more information, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com. Viva la Música event dates, times and artists are subject to change.
Featuring live concerts by top names in the music industry
SeaWorld Orlando hosts an exciting concert lineup for its Bands, Brew & BBQ Festival, Saturdays and Sundays, February 9 – March 17. This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever with two additional weekends of sizzling BBQ and incredible concerts.
Bands, Brew & BBQ is included with park admission.And the best way to experience this festival is with a Fun Card where you pay for a day’s admission and come back all year –
with no blackout dates – to experience all of SeaWorld’s remarkable events.
The 2013 Bands, Brew & BBQ concert lineup includes:
Saturday, February 9 Chris Young with Jerrod Niemann
Sunday, February 10 Merle Haggard
Saturday, February 16 The Beach Boys
Sunday, February 17 Styx
Saturday, February 23 Big & Rich
Sunday, February 24 Third Eye Blind
Saturday, March 2 Daryl Hall and John Oates
Sunday, March 3 Darius Rucker
Saturday, March 9 Michael McDonald
Sunday, March 10 Josh Turner
Saturday, March 16 Rodney Atkins with Uncle Kracker
Sunday, March 17 Sheryl Crow
Enjoy a cornucopia of all things BBQ featuring SeaWorld’s signature mouth-watering BBQ, along with local favoritessuch asTony Roma’s, Cecil’s Texas Style Bar B Q and Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q, who will be on hand serving BBQ foods tendered to perfection.
For those who want to feel like a rock star, the VIP package and Craft Brew Sampler are available. Guests who take advantage will enjoy the best seats in the house, mouth-watering food and a unique experience that they’ll never forget as they get up-close and personal with some of today’s hottest classic rock and country music performers.
There is a side stage showcasing local bands and for those who want to show off their line dancing and boot scootin’ skills, a DJ will be spinning music to satisfy movers and shakers of all ages and levels.
And through March 3, in between all the barbeque eatin’ and side steppin’, event-goers can take in the sights of the proudly displayed 2013 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. For all Harley lovers who ride their Harley to Bands, Brew & BBQ, parking is free!
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment inspires millions, through the power of entertainment, to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world.The Company hasbeencreating innovativeentertainment experiences that blend imagination with nature for more than 50 years andisbest known for its 11 U.S. theme parks, attractionsthat hosted more than 24 million guests in 2012 and include the beloved SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens®and Sesame Place® brands. The parks offer guests a variety of up-close experiences, from animal encounters that invite exploration and appreciation of the natural world, to thrilling rides and spectacular shows. In 2011SeaWorldParks & Entertainment began expanding its popular brands into media and entertainment platforms to connect people to nature and animals through movies, television, and digital media; plus began developing new lines of licensed consumer products.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The Company maintains one of the largest animal collections in the world andhashelpedleadadvances in the care of species in zoological facilities and in the conservation of wild populations. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainmentalsooperates one of the world’s most respected programs to rescue, rehabilitate and return to the ocean marine animals that are ill, injured and orphaned.TheSeaWorld®rescue team hashelped more than 22,000 animalsin need over the lastfour decades.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment employs more than 21,000 people nationwide.
Discovery Cove Baby Dolphin born November 30, 2012
Discovery Cove Baby Dolphin
A 3 ½ foot-long, 35-pound dolphin was born at Discovery Cove® on Friday, November 30 at 10:22 a.m.
This birth is notable because it marks the first time a dolphin at Discovery Cove has successfully given birth to a calf conceived through the use of “sperm-sexing” research, which involves separating sperm carrying a female-producing X chromosome from sperm carrying a male-producing Y chromosome.
This scientific advancement affords Discovery Cove the opportunity to manage its species’ genetic diversity and social environment. Scientists at the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center in San Diego, Calif., pioneered the ability to preferentially produce female or male dolphin offspring though sperm-sexing and artificial insemination. This recent birth represents the 15th dolphin calf produced worldwide using sex pre-selection technology.
The female calf is continuing to develop, nurse and bond with its mother; both are doing well. This is the 25th dolphin born at Discovery Cove since the park opened in 2000. Discovery Cove’s parent company, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, has one of the most successful dolphin breeding programs in the world.
Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort experience where guests enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and tropical fish, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches. To discover more, visit DiscoveryCove.com
