SeaWorld San Diego Shutters Its Shark Encounter To Reimagine New Aquatic Adventure with Sharks
The exhibit will celebrate the rich diversity of sharks, instead of showcasing them in a fear-based way.
SeaWorld San Diego has closed its Shark Encounter experience to begin work on an exciting reimagining, transporting guests in a more immersive and breathtaking environment, set to open next year.
What’s Happening:
- SeaWorld San Diego has unveiled thrilling plans for a reimagined Shark Encounter, where the all-new experience will transport guests into a breathtaking aquatic environment, inviting them to explore the ocean like never before and discover the remarkable beauty and power of sharks.
- The current Shark Encounter has closed to begin work on this exciting renovation.
- This thrilling new exhibit invites guests to challenge conventional perceptions through a fully immersive 360-degree experience, from watching sharks glide overhead to feeding them.
- The reimagined experience will continue to showcase the incredible diversity of sharks featured at SeaWorld San Diego, with 11 different species including sand tiger sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and the endangered Australian leopard shark - part of a Species Survival Plan through AZA-accredited facilities, as well as new sharks and other fish. Almost all of the species at Shark Encounter are listed as vulnerable or near threatened, reinforcing SeaWorld’s commitment to education and species protection.
- Combining stunning visual upgrades with immersive and educational storytelling, the all-new Shark Encounter is designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of shark species and their vital role in ocean ecosystems. Moving away from traditional fear-based portrayals, the refreshed Shark Encounter educates guests about the incredible diversity of sharks - over 400 species worldwide - highlighting their varied sizes, shapes, and fascinating adaptations that contribute to healthy oceans.
- Cutting-edge multimedia elements elevate the experience: an overhead video ceiling in the hallway showcases diverse sharks swimming above, leading guests toward the underwater tunnel, while a multi-screen video installation in the finale surrounds visitors with rare live footage of shark diversity in a mesmerizing 8-minute presentation.
- Informative signage and engaging storytelling throughout debunk common shark myths and spotlight SeaWorld San Diego’s ongoing local and global conservation efforts.
- Guests will discover a new surge tank that simulates crashing waves washing into a shallow tide pool, providing a sensory, interactive glimpse into the dynamic coastal environments sharks call home.
- SeaWorld will also introduce an exclusive VIP Shark Tour, giving adventurous guests the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn up-close how the park’s zoological specialists feed and care for the sharks.
- The tour also includes access to a brand-new walkway above the shark habitat, offering a dramatic, elevated view of these fascinating animals from a unique perspective.
- The new Shark Encounter is set to debut in the Spring of 2026.
Dare to Compare:
- This promise that we will be stepping away from fear-based shark exhibits is a refreshing one, especially compared to SeaWorld Orlando’s Shark Encounter experience.
- In Florida, the experience (which itself has been refreshed in recent years) still does play into the fear of sharks - with dark corridors and ominous silhouettes projected as you work your way to the real star of the attraction - an underwater tunnel through the shark habitat.
- While signage does provide more positive information about the animals, the overall vibe is still one that plays like a darker movie building up to the tunnel and the predators that lay within.
- Based on this San Diego announcement, perhaps Orlando could take a few notes and make the experience a lighter one.
What They’re Saying:
- Tyler Carter, SeaWorld San Diego Park President: “This is more than a refresh—it’s a reinvention. The revamped Shark Encounter is designed to engage the senses and imagination like never before, bringing guests closer to sharks in powerful, memorable ways. This revitalization is part of our ongoing investment in the park to create innovative, immersive experiences that also support marine conservation and education."
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