Disney Announces Big Changes at Its Finding Nemo Attraction

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Disney Announces Big Changes at Its Finding Nemo Attraction

Key Takeaways

  • Disney will remove dolphins from The Seas with Nemo and Friends in Epcot for animal welfare reasons.
  • The educational focus of the attraction remains with diverse sea life exhibits for guests to experience.
  • Guests will be able to visit the relocated dolphins at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Florida.

As a lifelong Disney enthusiast who has spent countless hours exploring the magical world of Epcot, I must say that I am both saddened and intrigued by the recent announcement regarding The Seas with Nemo and Friends. On one hand, it’s always disheartening to see any beloved attraction undergo changes, especially when it involves the removal of beloved characters like the dolphins. However, as someone who has always admired Disney for their commitment to animal welfare, I understand and support this decision.

Disney recently shared that they’re making changes to their Finding Nemo attraction, The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Specifically, they’ll no longer have dolphins and some other marine animals in the aquarium section following the ride. Originally called The Living Seas, this blend of an aquarium and a ride opened in Epcot way back in 1986. Since its debut at Disney World, this part of Epcot has been known for showcasing a wide variety of aquatic creatures, with dolphins being among the most loved. Visitors can catch glimpses of these friendly creatures during the end of The Seas with Nemo and Friends before leaving the ride and exploring the aquarium.

Ever since its inception, Epcot has been known for being more educational than other theme parks, with The Living Seas originally designed to educate guests on marine life. Recently, Disney has implemented several changes across the parks, but one of the older renovations was transforming The Living Seas into The Seas with Nemo and Friends. Upon diving into the underwater world with Nemo, visitors can then explore a massive 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with opportunities for guests of all ages to learn about various sea creatures. This unique experience has captured the hearts of many, especially the playful dolphins that occasionally make an appearance in the aquarium.

In early September, Disney communicated with its staff (cast members) through an internal message, which Entertainment Weekly got hold of, about moving a few marine mammals from their aquarium. Specifically, three male dolphins that have been part of The Seas with Nemo and Friends will be transferred to Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park following a recent assessment. This action is similar to removing trolleys in Disneyland for the betterment of the park itself. Disney assures us that this relocation is beneficial for the animals, as construction work on the attraction is ongoing.

Changes to the Animals at The Seas With Nemo and Friends

The dolphins and Lou, the manatee under rehabilitation at The Seas with Nemo and Friends, will be departing. This means that visitors will have to bid farewell to these beloved animals. Lou is being transferred to another rehab center, and a new manatee will take his place in the aquarium. For those who enjoyed watching the dolphins, there’s still time for one final visit before they move in October, similar to how guests took their last ride on Splash Mountain before its refurbishment.

Disney has consistently prioritized the well-being of its animal residents, particularly in conservation initiatives. Although dolphins were a favorite attraction, it’s reassuring to know that the company values the animals’ health above all else. As the dolphins prepare to depart from the aquarium, The Seas with Nemo and Friends still offers an engaging experience for both children and adults to enjoy. If visitors are interested in seeing the dolphins again, they can find them at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Florida. With constant changes happening in Disney parks and the introduction of new franchises, it’s exciting to speculate about The Seas with Nemo and Friends’ future developments.

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2024-09-12 00:35