09-05-2025
Animals get into swim of things at new Sea Life Florida aquarium
The first animals have joined the tanks at the upcoming Sea Life Florida Aquarium in Winter Haven.
Among the initial inhabitants are a black-tip reef shark named Pretzel, who was born and raised in a Sea Life attraction in Oberhausen, Germany.
'It's a whole team effort, from transport logistics to habitat checks. A lot goes on behind the scenes to make sure animal arrival is smooth and safe,' Marie Collins, regional head of conservation welfare and education, said in a video released by the attraction.
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The aquarium will operate adjacent to Legoland Florida theme park in Polk County. Both are owned by Britain-based Merlin Entertainments Group, which also runs Sea Life Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds and Orlando Eye in Icon Park.
The Winter Haven aquarium will feature more than 3,000 marine animals, including stingrays and big-belly seahorses. It will feature 25 interactive exhibits plus a 180-degree ocean tunnel that travels beneath sea life. The new attraction won't have a Lego theme but will include a 'Theme Park Under the Sea' display
'We'll continue to welcomes species in the weeks ahead as we build towards opening day,' Collins said.
The grand opening is now scheduled for June 6; its website says a 'soft opening' will launch May 23.
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