Beluga whales are entirely arctic and subarctic. They inhabit the Arctic Ocean and its adjoining seas. During certain times of the year they are also found in large rivers. A beluga’s “melon” is a rounded structure on the dorsal surface of a whale's head, just in front of the blowhole. The melon probably facilitates sound production. It changes shape when the whale is producing sounds. Aside from the narwhal (another arctic species), beluga whales are the only other member of the Monodontidae whale family.
Beluga In-Water Interaction
This in-water interaction lets you touch and feed these sociable white whales as animal behaviorists share how we’ve used encouragement-based training to communicate with these warm-hearted residents of the cold Arctic waters.
Our animal care specialists will guide you through a unique, in-water interaction where you can touch and feed these sociable white whales.
A behind-the-scenes visit to Wild Arctic
An up-close encounter as you wade into the water and get to know these marine mammals through touching, feeding, and play.
Animal experts will share their knowledge and firsthand experience caring for these animalsParticipants must be at least 50 inches tall.
Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a paid adult Beluga In-Water Interaction participant.
Participants must provide their own swimsuit to wear underneath the provided wetsuit.
Space is limited in the encounter area; therefore, observers cannot be accommodated in addition to participants. Participants must check in 15 minutes prior to the Sea Otter Interaction at Wild Arctic, outside the Arctic Trading Post.
Reservation includes the Beluga In-Water Interaction Program on the date and time of your reservation only. Park admission is not included with your program reservation and is required for participation. Due to the special nature of this program, space is limited and early reservations are recommended. The overall program lasts approximately 60 minutes, including a trainer-led in-water orientation and beluga whale interaction. The in-water portion lasts approximately 20 minutes and is subject to change.
Participants must check in 15 minutes prior to the Beluga In-Water Interaction at Wild Arctic, outside the Arctic Trading Post.
Participants must be 50 inches or taller, in good health, and comfortable standing in waist- to chest-deep water. Swimming is not part of the program. Participants under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a paid adult Beluga In-Water Interaction participant.
Groups may be combined for the encounter, with a maximum of 8 guests per group, based on limited space in the back exhibit area.
All participants, or a legal guardian, are required to sign a liability release form prior to the program. Participants are required to wear a SeaWorld-issued wetsuit with booties and must provide their own swimsuit to wear underneath. All jewelry must be removed prior to entering the water. A shower facility with lockers, soap, shampoo, hair dryers, and personal lockers is available for the duration of the interaction. Smoking is prohibited at all times.
Photographers will be available during the interaction, with photos available for purchase afterward for an additional fee.
Program times, prices, components, and animal participation are subject to change. No loose jewelry or sunglasses are permitted. All events are subject to change and or cancellation due to animal availability. Events are not canceled due to inclement weather. Programs will still be offered except in the event of lightning.
Animal Experience reservations may be changed or canceled once at no charge if the change is made at least 48 hours prior to the reservation date. Charges apply for changes made within 48 hours or for more than one change. Animal Experience reservations are nonrefundable if canceled with less than 48 hours advance notice.
This program cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, or discounts. Reservations are non-replaceable, non-transferable, not for resale, and cannot be redeemed for cash. Void if altered. Photocopies will not be accepted. Pass Member discounts are available when booking through the Pass Member website.
Allua came to San Diego from Vancouver Aquarium in July of 2005. Allua often spits water up in the air and tries to catch it in her mouth – a behavior that is also used to find food underneath ice floes and within silty ocean bottoms.
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Klondike
Klondike
Male
Klondike was born at Marineland, Canada in 2002 and came to San Diego in June of 2014. Klondike is very social and energetic.
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Oliver
Oliver
Male
Oliver came to San Diego from SeaWorld Orlando in February of 2024. He has a wrinkle at the front of his melon, dark circles around his eyes, and grey patterns on his flukes. Oliver loves enrichment and has a variety of vocals in his repertoire.
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