Did you know that, in addition to SeaWorld Orlando’s fascinating animal exhibits and world-class attractions, the park also offers an array of backstage tours and animal encounters? By booking one of these special experiences you and your family can snap a photo with a penguin, touch a shark, or even train a beluga whale! Recently, we had the awesome opportunity to experience the Sharks Up-Close Tour at the Shark Encounter exhibit near the Mako coaster. Including an in-depth exploration of the majestic 700,000 gallon aquarium, educational talk, and the opportunity to touch a shark; this add-on excursion was well worth the price tag.
Let’s take a closer look at all you can expect during your Sharks Up-Close Tour at SeaWorld:
Sharks Up-Close Tour at SeaWorld Orlando
On their website, SeaWorld describes the Sharks Up-Close Tour like this:
Separate fact from fiction as you explore the incredible diversity and design of sharks. Dare to peer down into our 700,000-gallon aquarium to discover how we care for these perfect predators. Then, touch a small shark, feed several species in the shark shallows, and find out why these ancient species need our help now more than ever.
An Informative Lesson
During the first piece of our tour, we received a short, educational talk from our guide. Explaining basic concepts about shark anatomy as well as some fun facts about different shark species – this was a fascinating lesson about these remarkable creatures.
Touching a Shark!
After our lesson, we got to touch a small bamboo shark! Our guide instructed us to move very slowly and to only lightly pet the shark with two fingers.
In-Depth Aquarium and Shark Care Tour
Once we had all had a chance to touch the bamboo shark, it was time to head upstairs for our aquarium tour. Looking down at the Shark Encounter from the surface level, we could see all kinds of amazing fish as well as an exclusive view of the famous shark tunnel!
After checking out the aquarium, it was time to learn how SeaWorld cares for multiple shark species and their specific needs. Getting a special look at the medical pool and handling supplies, our tour guide taught us about sawfish feeding, veterinary care, record keeping, and more marine husbandry techniques!
Feeding the Sharks!
During the last part of our tour, we got to feed the sharks and rays outside of the Sharks Underwater Grill. It was a memorable and fun experience, but it was harder than I expected. You have to drop the fish at just the right time. If you drop it too soon, the shark will swim right over it. If you drop it too late, the shark will let it roll off its back and ignore it.
Freaky Thoughts: Sharks Up-Close
Currently, Sharks Up-Close starts at only $20 per guest. With the extra educational opportunities as well as the unique opportunity to touch a shark and view the behind the scenes areas of the Shark Encounter aquarium, this tour is an unforgettable addition to your day at SeaWorld Orlando!
Booking Your Sharks Up-Close Tour
You can book your Sharks Up-Close Tour on SeaWorld Orlando’s website. Make sure to grab your spot early as available time slots will fill up!
If you’d like to learn about more SeaWorld tours, check out my review of Penguins Up-Close!
