Just Unveiled: SeaWorld Orlando’s New Ride Vehicle for SeaQuest: Legends of the Deep at IAAPA

 A New Voyage Awaits – SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep Sets - Sail at SeaWorld Orlando in 2026

Grab your crew and prepare to dive. In 2026, SeaWorld Orlando will chart a bold new course with the debut of SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, a groundbreaking family indoor dark ride that invites trailblazers big and small to journey into the ocean’s most spellbinding secrets.

For the first time ever, SeaWorld Orlando is blending multi-sensory storytelling, imaginative

ride technology, and the awe-inspiring experiences of the deep sea into one unforgettable

voyage. Aboard state-of-the-art submersibles, guests will embark together on an expedition

beneath the waves — discovering glowing worlds, exploring sunken shipwrecks, and

encountering astonishing creatures that capture the exhilaration of the unknown.

“SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep redefines what a family attraction can be,” said Conner Carr,

vice president of rides and engineering for the park. “By blending cutting-edge ride technology

with the mystery of the deep sea, we’re creating an experience that inspires curiosity and

brings explorers of all ages along for the adventure.”

SeaWorld Orlando’s First-of-Its-Kind Suspended Dark Ride

This all-new indoor suspended dark ride, in partnership with Vekoma Rides, will feature a

smooth, gliding motion system that allows ride vehicles to swing and rotate through different

themed environments — creating a cinematic experience. Featuring immersive audio in every

vehicle, dynamic lighting, and a fully indoor setting, SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep offers an

experience that lets families embark on a deep-sea expedition no matter the weather outside.

A Voyage for the Whole Family

Whether you crave the rush of discovery or want to experience the sense of awe that comes

with exploring the unknown, this first-of-its-kind attraction plunges families straight into the

wonders and mysteries of the deep. Guests of all ages can join the journey, taking in

extraordinary ocean environments in a way that’s engaging, inspiring and unforgettable.

Launching in 2026 in a newly expanded area of the park, SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep is the

latest addition to SeaWorld Orlando’s diverse lineup of attractions, giving families another

unforgettable reason to return again and again, rain or shine.

The Best Way to Experience It All

SeaWorld Orlando is making spirits bright with its Black Friday Sale. Guests can unwrap up to

60% off Tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes — the perfect way to gift a full year of ocean-

sized adventure. With an exciting lineup of new events and entertainment coming in late 2025

and throughout 2026, these savings are too good to miss.

The best way to be among the first to dive into SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep is with a

SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass. Pass Members enjoy the biggest benefits, including FREE

parking (on most tiers), monthly rewards, exclusive previews, and discounts on food,

merchandise, and upgrades. It’s the smartest—and most rewarding—way to enjoy a year of

underwater wonder and experience everything SeaWorld Orlando has to offer, again and again.

Check out our YouTube Channel, Buckeye Coasters for interviews and more about this new ride coming to Seaworld Orlando in 2026. 

Link: https://youtu.be/UxDwCXEAg8Y 

Source: Seaworld Orlando Press Release (18NOV25)

Dollywood & Mack Rides unveil Nightflight Expedition Ride Vehicle at IAAPA 2025!

 As the most anticipated new attraction in the history of Dollywood Parks & Resorts nears its opening next spring, officials with the park and from manufacturer MACK Rides unveiled one of NightFlight Expedition’s cutting-edge ride vehicles on Tuesday morning.

Theme park industry media and attendees at the IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) Expo in Orlando were the first to see the custom-designed amphibious ride vehicle which will take guests on an extraordinary and engaging Smoky Mountain adventure when the attraction opens in 2026. The vehicle interacts with vivid multimedia projections, dynamic onboard and offboard audio, as well as special lighting effects, to create a truly immersive ride experience. MACK Rides won the 2025 Amusement Today Golden Ticket for Best New Innovation thanks to the ride system utilized in NightFlight Expedition.

The ambitious new ride marks the largest single attraction investment in park history and offers guests of all ages a groundbreaking experience. The project, which represents a more than $50 million investment, is located in Dollywood’s Wildwood Grove area and features four unique ride adventures in one attraction.

As the world’s first indoor family hybrid coaster and whitewater river raft ride, NightFlight Expedition takes Dollywood guests on an unforgettable journey through the Smokies to search for bioluminescence in the nation’s most-visited national park. During the 5 1/2-minute experience, guests soar on a nighttime flight over the scenic Smokies, enjoy a thrilling whitewater rafting excursion through more than 500,000 gallons of surging water, traverse a mountain ridge on a roller coaster, and navigate a mysterious shimmering lake by boat.

With so much community enthusiasm for NightFlight Expedition, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton says the innovative ride vehicle and overall experience are another indication of the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, destination’s increasing prominence within the industry.  

“We’re proud to unveil this revolutionary ride vehicle today. It truly represents the perfect blend we’ve tried to find between innovation and the authentic Smoky Mountain storytelling our guests expect from Dollywood,” Naughton explained. “The excitement surrounding this new attraction continues to build—within both the industry and among our guests—and highlights our growing reputation as a destination known for hospitality and guest experience, as well as engaging new attractions and immersive adventures.”

MACK Rides CEO Christian von Elverfeldt echoed Naughton’s sentiments about how his company’s ride system advances the theme park industry.

“NightFlight Expedition is a milestone in immersive ride experiences,” von Elverfeldt said. “Together with Dollywood and Herschend—with whom we have a long-standing partnership—we have a shared passion for innovation and storytelling. This partnership has led us to create a world-first attraction that seamlessly blends story, technology and family adventure. The ride vehicle is not just a technical achievement—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when creativity and engineering come together to push the boundaries of what a theme park experience can be.”

NightFlight Expedition—which features a 39” height requirement—is located inside a 44,000 sq. ft., temperature-controlled facility, allowing it to operate independently of the Smoky Mountain weather. At the heart of the ride’s story is the search for Secret Lake, the water source thought to provide Wildwood Grove’s Wildwood Tree with its colorful glowing canopy.

Guests set out on their expedition to find Secret Lake with the help of twin scientists, Cora and Jasper Oakley, who just happen to be the niece and nephew of Wildwood Grove’s resident wilderness explorer, Ned Oakley. The twins, who work out of a hangar at Hidden Hollow Aviation, have invented the Bioluminator, a device designed to detect and amplify bioluminescence, the biochemical emission of light by living organisms. Cora and Jasper mount the device onto their family’s one-of-a-kind amphibious aircraft to illuminate the Wildwood Tree’s glowing roots and follow them to Secret Lake.

NightFlight Expedition is anticipated to open in Spring 2026, so adventurers should begin preparing early to join Cora and Jasper on their journey. With a year of surprises ahead, guests should consider a season pass to ensure they can experience all the fun! Four season pass levels—Diamond, Gold, Silver and the Summer Fun Pass—provide great options for every guest, while the popular Pre-K Imagination Season Pass offers free admission all season long to any child born in 2021 or 2022. Passes are on sale now and anyone who purchases a 2026 Dollywood season pass can experience this season’s Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana! It’s the perfect Christmas gift for every member of the family. 

 

For more information about Dollywood’s 2026 season or season passes, please visit Dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app. For more information about NightFlight Expedition, please visit Dollywood.com/NightFlightExpedition. 

Source: Dollywood

Happening Today - Holiday World Announces Souvenir Cup Art Contest Open to All Ages

 Holiday World Announces Souvenir Cup Art Contest Open to All Ages  

 Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari officials are hosting an art contest to inspire the designs of the 2026 souvenir cup in honor of the parks’ upcoming 80th birthday. When the business first opened its doors on August 3, 1946, it was named Santa Claus Land and was America’s First Theme Park. Three winners with submissions that celebrate the theme of 80 years of family fun will each win two 2026 Season Passes.

“We were amazed by the creativity of the submissions last year,” says Lauren Crosby, Fourth-Generation Owner. “It was a fun way to celebrate 25 years of Free Unlimited Soft Drinks. This year, we’re excited to see what our fans design to help us celebrate 80 years of family fun in Santa Claus, Indiana.”

Fans of any age who are legal residents of Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Illinois, Ohio, or Missouri may submit one design for consideration online by Monday, December 15, 2025. Full contest rules are listed at www.HolidayWorld.com/CupDesign. 

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari are closed for the season and will reopen in May of 2026. 2026 Season Passes are on sale now, and the parks will offer Black Friday deals on 2026 Any Day Tickets beginning Monday, November 24. 

Source: Holiday World Press Release & Photo (17NOV25)

Coming Soon - Holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Returns Dec. 6 for Family Friendly Festivities

Sleigh into the jolliest time of year during Holidays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Presented by the Hallmark Channel which returns with festive fun on select dates: December 6, 13, 20, and 24–31. Families are invited to celebrate the season with twinkling lights, festive LEGO® décor, interactive entertainment, and even a gigantic LEGO Christmas tree, all included with General Park Admission, Annual Passes, and select Vacation Packages. Recently ranked among the Top 10 Best Theme Park Holiday Events by USA TODAY 10 Best Holidays at LEGOLAND is the ultimate family-friendly tradition in Central Florida.

Highlights of this year’s celebration include:

 

LEGO® Christmas Tree & Festive Photo Spots

At the beginning of the Park, guests will discover a dazzling three-story LEGO Christmas Tree, built from more than 360,000 LEGO®and DUPLO® bricks. This towering LEGO holiday icon is surrounded by a life-size LEGO sleigh with reindeer, a massive LEGO wreath, and other festive LEGO décor, offering countless photo opportunities throughout the Park. Even MINILAND USA gets a seasonal makeover, ensuring every corner of the Park is merry and bright.

 

Meet LEGO® Santa & Friends

The holiday spirit comes alive with interactive meet-and-greets featuring LEGO® Santa and his festive Minifigure crew. Families can pose with yuletide favorites and enjoy memorable moments with LEGO® holiday friends throughout the Park.

 

Elf-tastic Entertainment & Décor

Entertainment takes center stage with reindeer-approved shows, activities, and live performances spread across the Park. Guests will also be surrounded by immersive holiday-themed décor, transforming LEGOLAND Florida Resort into a whimsical winter wonderland. 

 

·       Sleigh Build Competition: Unwrap your LEGO® building skills and put your imagination to the test as you create new sleigh designs, race them down snowy slopes, and enter for the chance to win a grand prize!

·       Festival of Flurries: Jump into a high energy, fun-filled celebration of…SNOW!! Sing and dance along to your favorite winter-y tunes with everyone’s favorite snowy friend – LEGO® Snowman!

·       North Pole Postal Service: Write a special letter to LEGO® Santa with the help of his best elves, and watch your letter fly all the way to the North Pole! Only available on Dec. 6 – 25 Holidays at LEGOLAND® event days.

·       Santa’s Toy Build: LEGO® Santa needs your help to fill his bag with toys and gifts! Using LEGO® bricks and your imagination, build anything you'd like for the man in red.

·       Holly Hype Dance Party: LEGO® Reindeer Girl rounded up her favorite holiday hits and is ready to 'dance her hooves off' with YOU! Jump, prance, and boogie down at this interactive holiday-themed dance party.

·       Holiday Traditions Scavenger Hunt: DUPLO® Valley is covered in some of our favorite holiday traditions. Take on the challenge of spotting all the special holiday icons for a festive prize! While supplies last.

 

Tasty Tinsel Treats

Festivities always include food, and this year, LEGOLAND Florida will serve limited-time holiday favorites and treats designed to delight the whole family. From sweet bites to savory holiday favorites, guests can indulge in limited-time treats available only during the month of December.

 

LEGO® Shop: Holiday Exclusives & Festive Displays

Guests can wrap up their day of holiday fun with a visit to the new LEGO® Shop, featuring a dedicated section of limited-edition holiday items and a themed holiday display built from seasonal LEGO sets. Whether searching for the perfect gift, collectible ornament, or last-minute stocking stuffer, the LEGO® Shop offers something for every builder on the nice list. 

 

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration

The holiday fun culminates on December 31 with Florida’s only Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration, featuring extended park hours, festive activities, and a dazzling fireworks show to welcome 2026. Guests can enjoy the show through special 3D glasses that transform the fireworks into exploding LEGO® bricks, creating a one-of-a-kind display. The night ends with the signature “brick drop” over Lake Eloise and a spectacular grand finale. 

 

Stuff Your Stockings with Awesome Savings! 

The holidays are the perfect time to unwrap extra value, with limited-time offers that make it even easier to celebrate the season at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. 

 

Black Friday Savings

Out-of-this-world Black Friday Deals are coming soon! Sign up here to be among the first to unlock access to amazing savings.

 

Annual Passes

When you buy a 2026 Annual Pass today, you’ll enjoy unlimited LEGO® fun for the rest of 2025 at no extra cost. That’s more than a year of fun events, seasonal celebrations, and year-round adventure at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. Plus, be among the first to ride, Galacticoaster, the all-new, space-themed indoor coaster opening early 2026! For full event details, tickets, and exclusive overnight packages, visit LEGOLAND.com/Florida.

Source: Legoland Florida Press Release (23OCT25)

This Week - Universal Orlando Resort's Holidays Celebration Returns November 21 through January 4, Spreading Holiday Cheer Across the Destination

 UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT’S HOLIDAYS CELEBRATION RETURNS NOVEMBER 21 THROUGH JANUARY 4, SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER ACROSS THE DESTINATION WITH CHRISTMAS IN THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER, GRINCHMAS, UNIVERSAL’S HOLIDAY PARADE FEATURING MACY’S AND SO MUCH MORE

Guests Can Also Take Their Holiday Visit to the Next Level with Add-On Experiences Like The Universal Holiday Tour and The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast, and Stay Close to the Fun with Special Offers at Universal Hotels

Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating all things merry and bright during its destination-wide Holidays celebration – featuring a slate of festivities inspired by beloved characters and seasonal traditions from November 21 through January 4, 2026. Guests can enjoy beautiful holiday décor throughout the entire destination – including select worlds at Universal Epic Universe – and revel in the holiday spirit as they enjoy exciting experiences at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, including Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, and more. Plus, guests can enjoy delicious holiday-themed menu items at various dining locations, shop a collection of seasonal merchandise, and book a variety of add-on experiences to enhance their visit, including The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast and the exclusive Universal Holiday Tour.

Here’s a look at the jolly experiences guests can enjoy at Universal Orlando Resort this holiday season:

WONDROUS IN-PARK EXPERIENCES
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
From garlands to dazzling lights and other touches of wizarding splendor, guests can immerse themselves in festive holiday décor across all three wizarding world locations this season — including Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, and for the first time, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe. Guests can also warm up with hot Butterbeer and shop a selection of seasonal wizarding merchandise offerings to commemorate their visit.

Visitors will also enjoy popular holiday-themed experiences within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including special performances and seasonal melodies by The Frog Choir in Hogsmeade and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees in Diagon Alley, and the awe-inspiring nighttime spectacle, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle” – which brings the beloved characters and stories from the Harry Potter films to life in a breathtaking display of projection and special effects against Hogwarts castle.

Grinchmas in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure
The spirit of Grinchmas comes to life in Seuss Landing, where guests can step into the world of Who-ville with the fan-favorite stage show, “The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular” – a live retelling of the Dr. Seuss classic, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” Guests can also meet and take a photo with the mean, green one himself – The Grinch – during special appearances at Honk Honkers daily and even encounter Whos throughout the festively decorated Seuss Landing, including a new Who-ville Tree Lot with a collection of whimsical trees themed to various Dr. Seuss characters.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s is back to fill the merry streets of Universal Studios Florida with larger-than-life balloons, vibrant holiday floats, appearances by the Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me, beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar, and so much more. And it all culminates with a spectacular moment to light the park’s 80-foot Christmas tree led by the one and only Santa Claus.

Holiday Décor within Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe
In addition to the holiday décor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Universal Orlando’s groundbreaking new theme park, Universal Epic Universe, will also feature seasonal lighting and decorations in Celestial Park – the imaginative first world guests encounter at the theme park that features dining, entertainment and attractions against a backdrop of stunning architecture inspired by astronomical and mythological elements.

MERRY ADD-ON EXPERIENCES
The Universal Holiday Tour
Guests can take a guided tour of Universal’s holiday offerings across Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure and enjoy exclusive experiences during the Universal Holiday Tour, including:

• An exclusive meet-and-greet with The Grinch and his faithful dog Max;
• Reserved viewing area for Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s;
• Reserved seating area for “The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular;”
• Cookie decorating, light bites and non-alcoholic beverages;
• An exclusive meet and greet photo opportunity with Santa Claus in Universal Studios Florida;
• And priority access to one pre-determined attraction at Universal Studios Florida.

The Universal Holiday Tour is available on select dates beginning November 21, 2025 through January 3, 2026, and can be booked by visiting www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays. Pricing begins at $79.99 per person plus tax and separate theme park admission with a 1-Day 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket is required.

Annual and Seasonal Passholders can get a $10 discount per ticket per Passholder with a valid Annual or Seasonal Pass. Tickets for Passholders can be purchased through the VIP Call Center (1-866-346-9350) or by visiting the UOAP Lounge in Universal Islands of Adventure. Seasonal Passholder blockout dates apply

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Islands of Adventure
Guests can kick off a day of thrills by indulging in a delectable breakfast alongside beloved characters from Seuss Landing during The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous. Guests will enjoy Seussian-themed eats and treats during this plated breakfast that includes menu items like Green Eggs & Ham Quiche, Mrs. Toffee Apple Dapple Cluck Crunch Chicken Sandwich, Betty Lou Who Fluffy Ricotta Pancakes, and more. Guests will also encounter Whos throughout the breakfast and enjoy an exclusive meet-and-great with The Grinch.

This add-on experience is available on select dates beginning November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026 for $58.99 plus tax per adult and $32.99 plus tax per child (ages 3-9). Guests can book by visiting www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.

HOLIDAY CHEER AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK & UNIVERSAL ORLANDO HOTELS
Universal CityWalk
At Universal CityWalk, the Red Coconut Club will transform into the Green and Red Coconut Club for the holiday season, complete with festive decorations, live entertainment and holiday cocktails. This year’s theme is the “Mistletoe Pines Ski Lodge,” where guests will enjoy nods to their favorite Holiday songs amidst a vibrant atmosphere of dancing lights. Upstairs, guests will encounter Earl the Squirrel, who has brought his usual chaos and charm to Earl’s Twelve Days of Christmas. Guests can also meet this beloved Universal character on select dates in CityWalk Plaza.

Seasonal food and beverage offerings will also be available at restaurants throughout CityWalk like Bigfire and VIVO Italian Kitchen – and guests can enjoy a seasonal milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen.

Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Guests can enjoy holiday festivities at all 11 Universal Orlando Resort hotels, which will be decked out with festive décor for the season. Special menus and delicious holiday buffets will be offered for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, and guests can join in on holiday celebrations including Christmas tree lightings, Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremonies, strolling carolers and more.

NEW YEAR’S EVE
Guests can also ring in the New Year with dazzling celebrations at Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Epic Universe, Universal CityWalk, and all 11 Universal Orlando hotels. Additional details will be available at a later date.

Access to the in-park Holiday experiences is included with regular theme park admission. Guests can take advantage of special offers to book an incredible getaway to enjoy all that Universal Orlando has to offer this holiday season, including saving up to 30% when booking a stay of five nights or more at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels (offer is valid for travel through March 13, 2026). Plus, when bundled with theme park tickets to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay and/or Universal Epic Universe, guests can save up to $200 more on their total vacation package. Click here to learn more.

For more information about the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort, as well as special perks for Annual and Seasonal Passholders and other offers guests can take advantage of to plan their visit, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Holidays.

Source: Universal Orlando Resort Press Release (08OCT25)

Now - Universal Orlando Resort to Debut a New Overlay for Wicked: The Experience on October 31

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT TO DEBUT A NEW OVERLAY FOR WICKED: THE EXPERIENCE ON OCTOBER 31 - FEATURING NEW MOVIE PROPS, PHOTO OPS, MERCHANDISE AND MORE INSPIRED BY THE UPCOMING UNIVERSAL PICTURES FILM “WICKED: FOR GOOD” IN THEATERS NOVEMBER 21

Limited-Time Experience Offers Guests the Ultimate Way to Celebrate the Magic of Wicked Before the Epic Conclusion on the Big Screen on November 21

Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to fly into the breathtaking world of the highly anticipated Universal Pictures film, Wicked: For Good, with new experiences within the immersive retail location, Wicked: The Experience, beginning October 31. Located inside Universal Studios Florida, the highly themed store will feature new elements that will take guests on a journey deeper into the magical world of Oz, including an all-new refreshed overlay that includes new film props, photo ops, merchandise and surprises inspired by the sequel to the blockbuster phenomenon, Wicked. 

 

Guests will journey beyond the yellow brick road and explore immersive spaces inspired by iconic locations like Shiz University and the Emerald City, now brought to life with new dazzling scenic design, and exclusive displays of costumes and props from the new film.

 

Whether guests are “perfectly pink” or “positively emerald,” they will be able to shop exclusive new merch inspired by Wicked: For Good. This ozmopolitan new collection celebrates the Land of Oz and fan-favorite characters from the epic conclusion and features everything from home goods and plush to bag charms, accessories and apparel.

 

Plus, guests can enjoy a variety of “wicked good” themed treats throughout Universal Orlando, such as the Yellow Road Shake with Dulce de Leche ice cream and the Wizards Elixir Shake with Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream at Schwab’s Pharmacy ice cream shop, and more.

 

For more information about Wicked: The Experience at Universal Orlando Resort, visit UniversalOrlando.com/Wicked.

Source: Universal Orlando Resort Press Release (17OCT25)

Manatee Awareness Month - Seaworld Orlando

 

Florida’s Gentle Giants Get a Second Chance Thanks to SeaWorld’s Rescue Team

As Manatee Awareness Month begins, SeaWorld Orlando reports more than 40 successful manatee returns this year while urging Floridians to help protect the species in local waterways.

In celebration of Manatee Awareness Month, SeaWorld Orlando is reminding Floridians of their shared responsibility to protect one of the state’s most beloved species. The park’s Rescue Team recently returned its 42^nd rehabilitated manatee of the year to his natural habitat after a remarkable two-month recovery from a boat strike injury.
The 675-pound male, Barber, was rescued near Barber Bridge and the spot that inspired his name. When rescuers first found him, Barber was floating unevenly with his right side sticking high out of the water — a sign of internal injury from a boat strike. Because of the damage, he couldn’t control his buoyancy or dive to feed properly. Upon arrival at SeaWorld’s Rescue Center, veterinarians and zoological specialists worked around the clock to stabilize his condition, treat his wounds, and restore his strength.

“Seeing Barber return to the wild after all the effort that went into his care is the most rewarding part of what we do,” said Mallorie McCormick, Senior Zoological Specialist on SeaWorld Orlando’s Rescue Team. “From monitoring his eating habits to resolving his boat-strike injuries, it takes a team effort across our rescue, veterinary, and lab departments. Watching him swim away healthy… that’s our ultimate success story.”

In just eight weeks, Barber gained more than 150 pounds and regained full buoyancy, a testament to the expertise and dedication of SeaWorld’s animal care specialists and the collaborative statewide Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). SeaWorld Orlando is one of only five critical care facilities in Florida capable of providing long-term treatment for injured, orphaned, or ill manatees.

SeaWorld encourages all water lovers to take action to help protect manatees and keep our waterways safe for everyone:

·         Follow posted speed zones and “Manatee Awareness” signs.

·         Wear polarized sunglasses to spot manatees more easily.

·         Watch for circular ripples or “footprints” that signal a manatee swimming just below the surface.

·         Give wildlife space... never chase, touch, or feed them.

·         Dispose of trash properly so it doesn’t end up in the water.

SeaWorld Orlando has rescued more than 1,000 manatees since launching its rescue program in 1976, continuing a commitment to conservation and wildlife rescue that spans about five decades. Every successful return like Barber’s serves as a reminder that small actions can make a big difference for these gentle giants.

About Manatee Awareness Month
Manatee Awareness Month, recognized each November, spotlights the importance of protecting Florida’s official state marine mammal and the fragile habitats they depend on.

Source: Seaworld Orlando Press Release (12NOV25)