“The Grand Reef takes Discovery Cove’s world-class animal encounters to an all new level — several, actually,” said Stewart Clark, the park’s vice president.  “It’s what our guests expect from us, unforgettable connections with the sea and making memories that will last forever.  This could only be created by Discovery Cove.” Visitors just need to get their feet wet to enjoy The Grand Reef, or they can choose to go deep.  They can step into tranquil, shallow waters to discover a below-the-surface world teeming with sea life, or they can snorkel in deeper waters as thousands of exotic fish and graceful rays swim around them.

Surprises abound.  Families can seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below.  They’ll play hide-and-seek with thousands of beautiful fish, from small colorful wrasses to large spotted eagle rays. Further out in the reef, stunning habitats create the feeling of swimming right alongside venomous lionfish and sharp-toothed reef sharks, each safely behind glass.  Guests can take paths and bridges to the reef’s islands and hidden grottos as they delve into the reef from above, around and below.

Those looking for an even more exhilarating adventure can take part in The Grand Reef’s innovative experience, SeaVenture, an underwater walking tour.  Wearing dive helmets, guests find up-close excitement around every corner, each step yielding a new discovery.  They’ll come across lionfish and sharks (safely behind massive panoramic windows), one-on-one touches with unique animals and schools of fish and gentle rays swimming by. SeaVenture is a once-in-a-lifetime, undersea experience available for a nominal fee.

The Grand Reef is the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, a fully immersive tropical escape, new to discover in Orlando in 2011.

Discovery Cove is a full-day experience where guests can swim with dolphins, hand-feed exotic birds, snorkel through beautiful fresh and salt water lagoons and relax on pristine, white-sand beaches. In addition to the park’s one-of-a-kind animal interactions and lush natural beauty, Discovery Cove delivers superlative, personalized service, and unlimited access to an unparalleled array of first-class amenities.

Discovery Cove amenities include meals, snacks and beverages throughout the day’s adventures, towels, wet suits and swim gear, plus a pass for unlimited admission* to either SeaWorld or Aquatica in Orlando or Busch Gardens in Tampa to be used surrounding a Discovery Cove visit. Guests can upgrade to the Ultimate package which includes admission to all three sister parks for an additional fee.  Advanced reservations are required.

Seasonal rates for Discovery Cove’s Dolphin Swim Day Resort Package start at $199 (rates for Day Resort Package without dolphin swim experience and guests ages 3-5 start at $129).  Prices vary seasonally.

For reservations or more information, visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1-877-434-7268.

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All packages include a light continental breakfast, freshly prepared lunch, snacks and beverages throughout the day, dolphin-safe sunscreen, snorkel equipment, locker rental, wetsuits and towels.

With the unlimited pass to SeaWorld Orlando, guests can find out what it’s like to dive deep and fly high on the park’s flying roller coaster, Manta, experience world class shows, thrill rides and up-close animal encounters. Plus, this October families can enjoy an ocean of Halloween fun at SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular.  Starting after Thanksgiving, family and friends can splash into the holiday spirit at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.

Now through December 25, 2010, Florida residents can book a reservation at Discovery Cove and receive an unlimited admission pass to SeaWorld Orlando valid through December 31, 2010.  To discover more, visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1.877.434.7268.

Have you visited Discovery Cove? It is on my wish list of things to do…someday. I want to swim with dolphins!

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