There are several different attractions that
showcase Shamu’s extraordinary leaping, diving, and general
ability to entertain. For example, in "Shamu Adventure,"
the whale is joined by animal guru Jack Hanna in a simulated trip
to exotic locales like Alaska and Norway. The illusion is cleverly
maintained through ShamuVision, a gigantic video screen, as Hanna
leads Shamu through his trademark diving, swimming on cue, eating
small fish, and getting the audience very wet. If you are in
attendance, pay careful attention to the designated "splash
zones." They’re there for a reason.
A second feature entitled "Shamu: Close
Up!" examines killer hale behavior from all angles. Here,
guests will thrill to details about the park’s efforts to breed
the whales, including a look at the marine mammal nursery and
other preks. Tools like a whale scale, video monitors, and special
time-lapse cameras are shown, along with educational films on how
they are utilized to their fullest potential. This is not to be
missed, as it’s incredibly entertaining for people of all ages.
The kids will be in awe of the sheer size and scope of the whole
thing, while adults will no doubt be fascinated by the way that
Seaworld has combined science and technology to produce an
environment that is ideal for promoting marine mammal growth and
breeding.
However, as it stands now, the only place to
see Shamu is in his Stadium. Be warned that because everybody and
their children wants to see the whale, it’s going to get real
crowded in there. Be sure to purchase tickets well in advance, and
figure on arriving a few extra minutes before showtime to get a
good seat. If you really don’t want to get wet, beware the
Splash Zones, although they do afford the best views of the show
and therefore the most fun. The standard show length is twenty to
thirty minutes, so it won’t eat up your afternoon like Shamu
eats a fish. Definitely not to be missed at any cost.
Key West Dolphin Stadium