Attractions

Nighttime Fun

In addition to its regular productions, SeaWorld stages a few shows only seasonally, including Mistify, a nighttime spectacular combining fireworks and fountains on the lagoon. During summer months, guests are treated to the special-effects extravaganza nightly. While not on the same level as Disney's nighttime spectaculars, it adds an entertaining element to the experience -- especially for those who prefer to visit well into the evening hours. If you're dining at the Spice Mill restaurant in the Waterfront, you can even enjoy dinner with the show.

Swimming with the Sharks

In addition to the all-day (9-hr.) Marine Mammal Keeper Experience, SeaWorld offers one other interactive program. Sharks Deep Dive gives guests a chance to have limited, hands-off contact with more than 50 sharks, including a nearly 9-foot sand tiger, in the Shark Encounter area. Two at a time, guests don wet suits and a special underwater helmet (it lets you breathe and communicate with others) for a 30-minute encounter inside a cage that rides a 125-foot track. Part of the cage is above water, but participants can dive up to 8 feet underwater for a close-up look at the denizens. The cost is $150 (minimum age 10). The price includes a souvenir booklet and a T-shirt, but does not include the required park-admission fee.

The program is not open to expectant mothers or kids younger than the age of 10. Call tel. 800/432-1178, 800/406-2244, or 407/363-2380, or visit www.seaworldorlando.com to make mandatory reservations or for more information.

Additional Attractions

The park's other attractions include Pacific Point Preserve, a 2 1/2-acre natural setting that duplicates the rocky home of California sea lions and harbor seals. And Turtle Point showcases sea turtles swimming in the lagoon or lounging on the beach and sand dunes. The Extreme Zone tests your climbing and jumping skills with a rock wall and trampoline jump (both for an additional fee). A ride on the Sky Tower, open only seasonally and at an additional fee, lets you look out over the entire park.

The Makahiki Luau is a full-scale dinner show featuring South Seas-style food (fish, chicken, and pork) while you're entertained by music and dance of the Pacific Islands. It's hardly haute cuisine or Broadway but is very much on par with Disney's Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show -- minus the characters. It's held daily at 6:30pm. Park admission is not required. The cost is $46 for adults, $29 for children 3 to 9. Reservations are required and can be made by calling tel. 800/327-2424 or online at www.seaworldorlando.com.

On the Water

SeaWorld's 5-acre Waterfront area, which debuted in late spring 2003, added a seaport-themed village to the park's landscape. On High Street, look for a blend of shops; street shows; and the Seafire Inn restaurant, where lunch includes a musical revue. At Harbor Square, the Groove Chefs make musical mayhem with pots, pans, trays, and cans. The park also added street performers, including a crusty old captain who tells fish tales and makes music with bottles and brandy glasses. The array of Waterfront eateries includes the Spice Mill, Voyagers Wood Fire Pizza, and the Seafire Inn.