Get ready guys, this summer guests of all ages to SeaWorld® San Diego will dive into an all-new realm of deep-sea discovery with Ocean Explorer.  Multiple aquariums, exciting rides and digital technologies combine to create an experience centered on exploration and adventure, inspiring guests to protect the wonders of our oceans.

“We want to bring animal lovers up close and personal to an undersea world that is virtually inaccessible to most people,” said SeaWorld San Diego’s park president, Marilyn Hannes.  “Through the use of advanced digital interfaces and live animal experiences, that world is will be available for our guests to immerse themselves in.”

The signature ride of the attraction is Submarine Quest, boasting the world’s first interactive digital ride using “smart play” technology, which enables riders to guide their mission of oceanic exploration.  As adventurers on a scientific expedition, guests will glide through brightly colored coral reefs, collecting data as they travel to the depths of the ocean while encountering remarkable and mysterious sea creatures.

Submarine Quest’s proprietary gaming platform lets guests actively explore their surroundings during this three-minute ride while moving through digital—and sculptural—representations of an undersea world.

After disembarking Submarine Quest, guests can get up close to real giant Pacific octopuses, Japanese spider crabs and California moray eels in three uniquely designed aquariums.  Interactive surprises—like pop-up bubbles and a kid crawl— get younger guests face to face with these incredible species.

The Ocean Explorer realm will also feature Tentacle Twirl, an exhilarating wave swinger ride where guests will literally fly in chairs suspended from the tentacles of a giant jelly. Three additional family-friendly rides—Aqua Scout, a jump-around ride; OctaRock, a happy swing ride; and Sea Dragon Drop, a family free-fall tower—will round out the fun of this immersive, new attraction.

“Ocean Explorer will be an amazing addition to SeaWorld San Diego, for guests of all ages,” said Hannes. “The opportunity to see and learn about some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures, coupled with a mix of distinctive rides and activities, will give our visitors a meaningful experience only SeaWorld can create.”

“Introducing our guests to amazing animals like giant octopuses, spider crabs and moray eels so that they can learn, be inspired, and want to help preserve their ocean home is something we can’t wait to share.”