THE LIVING SEAS

This pavilion is dedicated to the world’s oceans and marine life. The official theme is to foster " A better understanding of mankind’s reliance on the seas, our past relationship with them, and the role they will play in the future". Centered around a 5.7-million gallon tank, The living Seas is essentially the Disney aquarium. Of course, this is no ordinary aquarium. Besides being one of the largest saltwater tanks in the world (203’ in diameter and 27’ deep), The Living Seas houses educational attractions like the Caribbean Coral Reef Ride and Sea Base Alpha.

Through the lobby are numerous displays about the history of underwater exploration including a model of Sir Edmund Halley’s first diving bell and a 16^th century diving helmet designed by Flavius Vegetus Renatus. You then enter "Hydrolators" for a simulated descent to the ocean floor and Sea Base Alpha. This futuristic sea base has two levels where visitors can see sharks, fish, coral and other sea creatures through huge underwater windows. There are also hands-on displays like a deep-sea diving suit you can try on and short films on underwater research.

If you want to see more of the tanks, you can take the Carribean Coral Reef ride; a three-minute ride in a Seacab that takes you through the bottom of the tank. You get a better look at the coral in the tank as well as all the sea creatures that call it home. Overall, The Living Seas is a bit boring considering all the hype it receives. It’s worth a look mainly because the amount of time you spent there is up to you.