SeaWorld Orlando, has unveiled plans for a new water park which is to include Commerson's dolphins.

Aquatica, which opens in March of 2008, is being built across from the current Sea World Park and Discovery Cove.

Described by officials as a whimsical, one-of-a-kind water park that only Sea World could create. It blends up close animal experiences, waters from serene to extreme, high-speed thrills and wide, sandy beaches.

Live animals in the park include Commerson's dolphins, brilliant macaws and colorful fish.

The park's signature attraction plunges riders in clear tubes through a crystal-blue lagoon with black-and-white Commerson's dolphins.

The executive vice president and general manager of SeaWorld Orlando stated that "Guests feel as if they are flying beneath the sea among these beautiful animals. While similar in coloration to SeaWorld's icon, Shamu, these dolphins are also distinctly different. In addition to being much smaller, they are also fast, agile swimmers - making them the perfect inhabitants for this lively park."

Marine Connection comment:
Andrina Murrell, Captivity Officer for Marine Connection explains that "We are extremely concerned about this new proposal by SeaWorld Orlando. Questions still need to be answered as to where SeaWorld propose to get Commerson's dolphins which are not common in captivity.

She continues "There are serious issues surrounding their "main" attraction where people will plunge through tubes immersed in the dolphins' enclosures - dolphins are very sensitive to sound and to have screaming children and adults at such close proximity to the water where sound travels efficiently is concerning.

"People should be being encouraged to see dolphins in the wild, they should simply not be treated as a 'Disney' character, a tourist attraction for making profit."