ORLANDO -- SeaWorld Orlando's long-rumored second park, opening
during 2000, will be named Discovery Cove by SeaWorld, and it will
offer interactive experiences with dolphins and other marine life,
snorkeling, an aviary, beach activities and food, all for an
inclusive price not yet determined, but expected to range from $150
to $250.
There will be no long lines because access will be limited to
about 1,000 persons, officials said. "An exclusive
reservations-only tropical oasis featuring once-in-a-lifetime,
one-on-one encounters with dolphins and other exotic marine
animals," is how SeaWorld Orlando officials described the new
park.
The park results from visitor requests to swim with dolphins,
tropical fish and other sea creatures, officials said, noting that
visitors also will be able to swim close to, but not with, sharks
and barracuda.
Ed Litrenta, vice president of marketing, said agents would be
important to the new 30-acre park. Although the details will come
later, he said package deals with area hotels can be expected. No
reservations will be accepted until some time later this year,
Litrenta said.
"After the opening of Discovery Cove by SeaWorld, vacations will
never be the same," claimed Frank Murru, the park's general
manager. In effect, visitors will create their own individual
experience of swimming with animals, snorkeling or relaxing at
beachfront settings, he said. "With Discovery Cove, we're truly
redefining the vacation adventure," he said, "as well as adding a
new reason to visit the Orlando area." For SeaWorld information,
call (877) 4-DISCOVERY.