ORLANDO, Fla. — We are about to enter shark territory! We’re going behind-the-scenes to discover how you can “deep dive” with sharks without getting wet.
“Summer of Sharks” — operated by Merlin Entertainments — is a limited-time experience at Sea Life Orlando Aquarium at ICON Park.
It’s an exclusive and intimate experience to try to debunk stuff you think about sharks. “Sharks are really funny because you think of them as these predators, and they are,” Sea Life Orlando curator Kelli Sparks said. “But they’re also kind of picky and very sensitive. If you put a big piece of clam, [the shark surprisingly] might not want it.”
“Summer of Sharks” includes a behind-the-scenes tour. It’s a $10 upgrade to see this usually off-limits area of the aquarium. “[Guests] can learn more facts and details about the seven different shark species we have at Sea Life Aquarium,” spokesperson Noel Brooks said. During this 40-minute tour, you’re above the stage and the 360-degree ocean tunnel, looking down into the aquarium at all kinds of sea animals, like Agave — a zebra shark — who engages in painting enrichment. (The paintings are sold in the gift shop.)
Education stations and booths are peppered throughout Sea Life Aquarium right now. Those interactions are included in regular admission.
“Summer of Sharks” runs through Aug. 9.