SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has announced a slew of attractions this week coming to SeaWorld Orlando in 2017. This is in addition to 2017 attraction announcements for SeaWorld San Antonio and SeaWorld San Diego. First and foremost, the biggest of the announcements for SeaWorld Orlando involves a major upgrade to the park’s oldest coaster.
Kraken Goes VR
Concept art of Kraken’s new VR makeover
Amidst the current trend in the theme park industry of augmenting coasters with virtual reality technology, SeaWorld Orlando has announced the addition of a VR experience to its classic roller coaster, Kraken. This will be the first VR coaster in Florida. According to the press release, “guests will embark on a deep sea mission alongside sea creatures inspired by extinct and legendary animals of the past, including the mighty Kraken. A custom digital overlay with uniquely designed headsets, fully integrated both mechanically and electronically into the coaster train delivers a new one-of-a-kind adventure. The addition of VR to this fan-favorite brings a new level of excitement and interest in Kraken, giving guests the opportunity to experience the coaster in a completely new way.”
For years, Kraken has been my favorite coaster in Orlando, and my second favorite coaster in Florida next to Montu at Busch Gardens Tampa. Markedly, I don’t think it really needs an upgrade. However, I personally have not yet experienced a VR coaster, and am excited for the opportunity to ride one here in Florida. The area of the park with Kraken and Journey to Atlantis tends to be on the empty side, especially after autumn hits. Moreover, the wait time for Kraken is usually no longer than 10 mins, and most of the time it’s been walk on for me. The addition of VR is sure to infuse the area with guests, especially with it being the first of its kind in Florida. However, my only concern is that with Kraken being such an intense coaster, many families will not get to enjoy the experience. Generally speaking, I think this type of experience for SeaWorld would be perfect on a coaster more geared towards families, such as Cheetah Hunt at Busch Gardens. Alas, this type of coaster doesn’t exist yet at SeaWorld Orlando (sorry Shamu Express). Nonetheless, the added VR will most likely be an awesome experience for guests who already enjoy Kraken.
Dolphin Nursery Gets Revamped
Rendering of revamped Dolphin Nursery at SeaWorld Orlando
Additionally, SeaWorld Orlando will be revamping its Dolphin Nursery exhibit. The park will be ditching the current tank walls and replacing them with large-scale acrylic windows. Also, the area will have multiple levels, giving kids face-to-face access to the dolphin calves and their mothers. Furthermore, the exhibit will also include new multi-purpose digital displays, offering a more compelling way for SeaWorld staff to share information about the dolphins with guests. In essence, this will be an eye-popping makeover to an attraction that guests often walk by without noticing.
Expanded Food & Drink Experiences
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- Rendering of new Flamecraft Bar at SeaWorld Orlando
Next, SeaWorld Orlando has announced that its current music and food events will all be expanded as part of its new Seven Seas Food Festival. This includes its currently popular music and dining events such as Bands, Brew, and BBQ and Viva la Musica. According to the press release, the event is “inspired by street food from Asia, the Caribbean, South America and the Mediterranean, this expanded festival will bring new culinary offerings to guests throughout the park. Plus, guests will be able to indulge in a variety of international, local and seasonal craft brews on tap giving their taste buds a worldly delight.” For one thing, those that know me know that I am a major foodie. The international cuisines offered at Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival are my favorite dining experiences amongst any amusement park. Now, SeaWorld Orlando gets a similar experience over 14 weekends throughout the year. This is looking to serve as an amazing experience and value for current pass members.
Also, the park will be adding the Flamecraft Bar next to Seafire Grill along the parks waterfront area. The Flamecraft Bar will feature 16 seasonal craft brews to go alongside a new food menu.
SeaWorld Adds Its Own Electric Parade
SeaWorld Electric Ocean, coming Summer 2017
Moving on, SeaWorld will be introducing Electric Ocean next summer. Electric Ocean is described as “a brand new, end-of-day spectacle event. As the sun goes down, the lights and energy go up, offering guests a different kind of fun after dark. The ocean comes to life with bioluminescent lighting, music and pathway entertainment, immersing guests in a glowing sea of wonder.” I am all for the park offering additional entertainment to cap off the day. Moreover, it gives pass members another reason to spend a late afternoon or early evening at the park during the summer months.
Aquatica Gets A Pass Member Pavilion
Rendering of Passmember Pavilion at Aquatica
Another perk for pass members will be the opening of the Passmember Pavilion over at Aquatica in Spring 2017. The pavilion will include “concierge service, complementary sunscreen, a private entrance to Banana Beach, private animal encounters, and additional offers”. All in all, SeaWorld has put forward an incredible commitment to its annual pass members. I definitely will be frequenting the park more often in 2017.
Last But Not Least
Lastly, SeaWorld Orlando will be bringing Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends to its 2016 Christmas Celebration. The event will also include Rudolph-themed attractions. Rudolph and friends will also be returning in 2017.
Additionally, over in Tampa, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has also announced that its popular show The Wildlife Docs will now be filming live at Busch Gardens Tampa for guests to enjoy.
Are you excited for the new attractions that SeaWorld Orlando has to offer in 2017? Also, what do you think about SeaWorld’s increased commitment to its annual pass members? Feel free to add your thoughts in the comments section. Also don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
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