As announced in March 2016, SeaWorld is transitioning from theatrical orca shows to a more educational presentation reflecting more natural behaviors of the whales. The first of these “live documentary”-style presentations, called Orca Encounter, will debut at SeaWorld San Diego this summer. SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Antonio will follow by 2019.
The final “One Ocean Shamu” show was conducted at SeaWorld San Diego on Sunday, Jan. 8. Their interim educational orca presentation called a “Killer Whale Presentation” started on Monday, Jan. 9. They have set up temporary seating (bleachers) around the orca underwater viewing area pool and will provide our guests this educational presentation while the new Orca Encounter backdrop is constructed at the main pool. Guests to SeaWorld San Diego will continue to experience live orca presentations, as they make preparations for the new education-based Orca Encounter to debut this summer.
Guests will learn how killer whales behave in the wild, how they move, hunt and navigate, what they eat and even how they communicate. “Orca Encounter” will not only help guests gain a deeper appreciation and respect for the orcas, but will leave them with a new sense of determination and purpose to help preserve the future of these majestic animals.
This new presentation will also look at broader themes such as research, rescue, conservation, habitats and distribution, husbandry and care, and social structures. 
This will inspire as well as educate guests about the majesty of these complex animals and reinforce the company’s commitment to provide educational experiences with the park’s resident Orcas.