Building on 60 years of marine animal rescue and education, SeaWorld San Diego recently unveiled its “next generation” Orca Encounter — an immersive experience designed to deepen public understanding of the park’s longtime and beloved ambassadors.
SeaWorld said the new program is a part of its “ongoing commitment to exceptional guest experiences and world-class animal care” and offers a more personal, inspiring, and educational look at orcas, their natural behaviors, and the strong human-animal bonds that define their care.
“This next generation of Orca Encounter truly is a love letter to the whales, our guests, and SeaWorld San Diego,” Blake Foster, a senior zoological specialist, said. “Having the opportunity to work alongside so many talented people who invest so much of their heart into this park was so special, and it’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.”
Foster, who has been with SeaWorld for five years, said the program incorporates elements from past presentations to create one that is more “engaging, inspiring and informative.”
“Our new Orca Encounter highlights the natural behaviors, intelligence, and social dynamics of the whales in a way that connects guests emotionally while fostering a deeper appreciation for the whales and their wild counterparts,” Foster said. “Orca Encounter highlights the relationship between trainers and whales, built through trust and positive reinforcement, and gives guests an inside look at how we care for them.”
Aside from learning about the general characteristics of the orcas, guests will also have the opportunity to get to know each personality of the whales, Foster said.
“No two orcas are alike, and this presentation gives them a chance to show their individuality,” Foster said. “Having guests see the whales as individuals is so important for caring about these incredible animals — whether it’s witnessing a high-energy exercise behavior like a breach or a playful interaction between a whale and a guest — those are the moments that create real connections.”
The presentation also highlights the behind-the-scenes contributions of the park’s dedicated veterinary team and its orcas to critical marine science. These animals play a central role in groundbreaking research aimed at protecting endangered wild populations, including the Southern Resident killer whales of the Pacific Northwest. They have supported studies on heart rate, metabolism, hearing, and body condition via drone imagery.
“Our animal care team is devoted to these animals, often spending more time with the orcas than they do with their own families,” said Eric Otjen, vice president of zoological operations at SeaWorld San Diego. “This presentation is a tribute to those bonds and to the potential we have to inspire change through connection and education.”
Foster knows all about the connection that is possible through SeaWorld, too. He said he still remembers seeing orcas for the first time as a 4-year-old.
“I hope guests walk away with a sense of wonder and a deeper respect for orcas, our oceans, and all the creatures that call it home,” Foster said. “I truly believe that we can inspire people to make a positive difference for our oceans.”
For more information about Orca Encounter or SeaWorld San Diego, go to SeaWorldSanDiego.com.
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