SeaWorld may be pushing forward with a new vision for its Orlando property, but its momentum has once again hit a minor delay. The park’s next major attraction, initially slated to debut in early May, will no longer open as scheduled. For a company trying to reframe its identity, even small setbacks draw attention.
Over the past decade, SeaWorld has gradually pivoted from its controversial marine shows toward thrill-based entertainment. Long overshadowed by the legacy of Blackfish and the backlash surrounding orcas like Tilikum, the brand has attempted to reposition itself through roller coasters, seasonal events, and immersive experiences that promise action over animal exhibits.
Part of that shift includes transforming SeaWorld Orlando into more of a resort destination. In 2023, the company announced plans for a 504-room hotel adjacent to the theme park, followed by another resort-style property near Discovery Cove. But as of this spring, neither has moved forward on schedule. This week, the company announced another delayed offering.
Expedition Odyssey Misses Launch Date
Expedition Odyssey, a new flying theater attraction set in SeaWorld Orlando’s Arctic zone, will now open to the public on May 9 instead of May 1. The eight-day delay comes just ahead of peak summer season, though the park has made efforts to soften the impact—annual passholders will still be granted early access from the originally intended date.
Expedition Odyssey is designed to offer a fully immersive journey through Arctic wildlife habitats. The attraction, developed by Mack Rides, uses a live-action film with no CGI effects—an unusual choice in a theme park space dominated by computer-generated visuals. Riders will be transported across frozen landscapes, culminating in a walk-through of SeaWorld’s Arctic exhibit where they can see real-life counterparts of the animals featured, including beluga whales.
Press previews have also been pushed in line with the updated opening, leaving reviewers and influencers with a later look at the highly anticipated ride. Whether the delay will impact public perception remains to be seen, but it marks yet another hiccup in SeaWorld’s broader transformation efforts.
Summer Plans Move Forward—With Some Perks
Despite the postponement, SeaWorld appears eager to maintain goodwill with its core audiences. The company has announced a new offer granting complimentary admission to U.S. military veterans and up to three guests at its parks in Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio. The promotion, which runs from May 6 through July 7, 2025, ties into Military Appreciation Month and may help drive early attendance for the new ride.
Meanwhile, SeaWorld Orlando is also preparing to kick off its “Summer Spectacular” on May 27. The event promises nightly entertainment with live DJs and performers, capped off by the Ignite fireworks show. Not everyone is on board with the explosive celebrations—activists have recently criticized SeaWorld San Diego for contributing to air and noise pollution along the California coast.
Still, SeaWorld continues to bet big on reinvention. Whether through new rides, seasonal events, or resort development, the company appears determined to move beyond its past. The question now is whether guests—and the calendar—will let it.
What’s your favorite SeaWorld ride?
