SeaWorld

SeaWorld is a chain of marine mammal parks in the United States, with operations in Orlando, Florida, San Diego, California, San Antonio, Texas, and previously Cleveland, Ohio. The parks feature killer whale, sea lion, and dolphin shows and zoological displays featuring various other marine animals. The parks' icon is Shamu the killer whale.

SeaWorld parks also feature a variety of thrill rides, including roller coasters like Kraken at SeaWorld Orlando and Steel Eel and The Great White at SeaWorld San Antonio. Journey to Atlantis, a combination roller coaster and splashdown ride, can be found at both SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Diego. The parks are owned by Busch Entertainment Corp., the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch, which is best known for brewing beer but also owns nine theme parks. In July 2005, SeaWorld Orlando announced plans to add a water park to its complex, which already includes SeaWorld and Discovery Cove; the water park is expected to combine water thrill rides with marine life, with attractions such as clear acrylic tube slides through pools containing Commerson's dolphins. The park is scheduled to open in spring 2007.

One of the biggest attractions is the Shark Encounter, in which guests are carried through a submerged acrylic tube into the sharks' tank. Another famous ride is Wild Arctic, simulating a helicopter ride to the Arctic. After the ride, the guests arrive at a simulated base station, where they can observe polar bears, Pacific walruses, and beluga whales. Another attraction is the Penguin Encounter, showcasing a variety of penguins. In addition, an attraction features endangered Florida manatees. The park has an extensive playground for children, Shamu's Happy Harbor.

SeaWorld scientists, zoologists, trainers and rescue teams participate in research and wildlife preservation. Recently, SeaWorld teams have helped save stranded whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions and helped raise the awareness of endangered manatees. SeaWorld's commitment to conservation, research and animal rescue was recently formalized with the creation of the non-profit SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. SeaWorld is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), meaning they have met and exceeded the standards in Education, Conservation and Research.

SeaWorld's official airline is Southwest Airlines, which has three Boeing 737 jetliners painted to look like Shamu the killer whale.