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SeaWorld

SeaWorld is a US-based chain of theme parks which combine rides and attractions with aquatic exhibits. SeaWorld’s main attraction at several sites is Shamu Stadium, a tiered arena surrounding a large pool that houses performances from killer whales, named after the first whale to perform at SeaWorld San Diego in the sixties.

The SeaWorld brand was founded by David Demott, George Millay, Ken Norris and Milton C. Shedd in 1964. When initial plans to create an underwater restaurant and marine life venue were deemed impractical, the four creators transformed the project into SeaWorld San Diego, a 22-acre marine park with dolphins and sea lions.

With 400,000 guests visiting in the first 12 months, soon a second site was being sought in Ohio, which opened in 1970, and became home to the company’s first killer whale.

The opening of Walt Disney World in 1971 helped create a new tourist hotspot in the Southern US states, and SeaWorld Orlando opened only two years later. SeaWorld San Antonio followed in 1988.

In 2001 SeaWorld Ohio was sold to Six Flags and the property was combined with its neighbouring park. The site was later sold to Cedar Fair, however, is now defunct.

SeaWorld’s treatment of killer whales in captivity was the focus of Blackfish, a film which debuted at Sundance in 2013.

SeaWorld operates a conservation program which includes the SeaWorld Conservation Fund. SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi opens its doors in 2023 as the first SeaWorld park in the MENA region. Found on Yas Island as part of a partnership with Miral, the five-floor indoor theme park is adapted to the UAE climate. No orcas or killer whales can be found at this venue.

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