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Key West at SeaWorld is not so much an attraction as a collection of related attractions wrapped in a single theme. Shades of Disney World! The attractions here are aquatic habitats featuring the denizens of warmer waters and the theme, of course, is the casual sophistication and good times atmosphere for which Key West has become famous. On both scores, SeaWorld acquits itself admirably.
Turtle Point
Rating: * * *
Type: Aquatic habitat
Time: Continuous viewing
Kelly says: Best when a staffer is present
Turtle Point is small by SeaWorld standards, a shallow sea water pool fringed by white sand beaches. It is home to four species — loggerhead, Kemp’s ridley, hawksbill, and green sea turtles, all of them rescued animals.
Turtles, it must be said, are not the most lively creatures SeaWorld has on display. No leaps and twirls here. So, for most folks, this habitat will warrant no more than a quick look. Fortunately, SeaWorld staffers are often hanging out by the pool ready to answer questions. When a group of people gathers and starts exercising its curiosity, a visit to Turtle Point can be quite interesting.
Stingray Lagoon
Rating: * * * *
Type: Aquatic habitat
Time: Continuous viewing
Kelly says: Your best shot at touching a SeaWorld
critter
Under a shading roof lies a long, shallow pool with a smaller “nursery pool” in one corner. Its edge is at waist height for easy viewing and interaction. Scores of stingrays lazily circle the main pool, while their “pups” navigate the nursery pool. The mature rays may look scary, but they are remarkably gentle creatures that will tolerate being petted (they feel a bit like slimy felt) and will almost always appreciate a free handout. Small trays of tiny fish called silversides can be purchased for $4 ($3 for annual passholders).
Once again, SeaWorld education staffers make regular appearances here, providing a steady stream of information about these fascinating creatures. The staffers are always ready to answer any questions you might have.
Thanks to the accessibility of the stingrays, this is a very popular attraction. If the pool edge is packed, be patient. Eventually you will be able to make your way forward where your patience is sure to be rewarded.
Dolphin Cove
Rating: * * * * +
Type: Aquatic habitat
Time: Continuous viewing
Kelly says: A spectacular SeaWorld habitat
Dolphin Cove lets you get up close to these delightful creatures. This extensive Key West habitat allows petting and feeding on one side and viewing on the other, from both a raised platform and an underwater observation post. Most people start at poolside.
Dolphin feeding here is carried out by paying customers. A small paper tray of smelt-like fish is $5 ($4 for annual passholders) and there is sometimes a two-cup limit per person. Having fish to offer will definitely increase your chances of touching a dolphin, although they will occasionally swim close enough to the edge to allow a foodless hand to sweep along their flanks. But you can’t just show up any old time and buy food. It’s sold only at specified feeding times and only up to the quantity that SeaWorld’s marine dietitians have determined is appropriate to keep the dolphin fit and not fat. If touching a dolphin is a priority for you or your child, I would advise checking out feeding times and arriving a bit early to get on line to purchase food. Otherwise, there is a good chance you will be disappointed.
A number of photographers associated with the Cove’s photo concession roam the premises and snap just about everyone who makes it to poolside. The photos are posted on video screens just a few yards away. Two 5x7s or one 8x10 will set you back $20.
Tip: If you’re going for a photo, have members of your party stake out a good spot on the edge of the lagoon well in advance of the posted feeding time. Then tip off a photographer as to your location (you’ll recognize them by their cameras and headsets).
While touching dolphins seems to be the first order of business for most visitors, don’t overlook the underwater viewing area (as many people obviously do). It offers a perspective on these graceful beasts that you just don’t get from above and, not incidentally, is a wonderful place to wait out those afternoon summer thunderstorms for which Orlando is famous. It will also give you a deeper appreciation of the skill and craft that went into designing the reef-like pool in which the dolphins live. To get there from the petting and feeding area, walk around the pool to your left.
As at all the habitats, SeaWorld staffers make occasional educational presentations. There is usually a staffer sitting on a life guard’s raised chair on the beach across from the petting area. Feel free to hail him or her from the sidelines if you have any questions.
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