SHAMU STADIUM

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.