Discovery Cove Announces Pricing, Begins Accepting Reservations

Orlando, FL -- A Florida vacation adventure unlike any other is a step closer as Discovery Cove opens its state-of-the-art reservations center and announces
admissions pricing for its inaugural year.

Discovery Cove is an exclusive tropical paradise where guests will swim and play with dolphins and other fascinating sea animals, snorkel through a coral reef filled with thousands of bright tropical fish, touch and feed exotic birds in a lush aviary and relax on sugar-white beaches surrounding beautiful pools and waterfalls. Discovery Cove is located adjacent to SeaWorld Orlando, and is scheduled to open in July 2000.

Unlike Orlando's theme parks, this family adventure requires reservations. Daily attendance will be limited to fewer than 1,000 guests, ensuring a high level of personal service and no crowds or lines for any activity.

"The initial response to Discovery Cove has been fantastic," said General Manager Frank Murru. "We know people are eager to reserve their spots, and with our new reservations system we can now begin the process."

From now through the end of the year, Discovery Cove will take advance reservations only from SeaWorld and Busch Gardens pass members and American Express Card members. General reservations will begin in January 2000.

Also beginning now, consumers may purchase gift certificates for holiday gifts or special occasions. Gift certificates can be redeemed later for a specific reservation.

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive adventure, where one price, $179 plus tax, covers everything: a swim-with-a-dolphin experience; unlimited access to all swim and snorkeling areas and the free-flight aviary; a sumptuous meal; use of a mask, snorkel, swim vest, towel, locker and other amenities; parking; and a pass for seven days of unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando. Additional costs include: incidental drinks, snacks and souvenirs.

"With everything that's included in this package, Discovery Cove is an unbeatable vacation value," Murru said. "And the experience that awaits our guests will be a priceless memory that will last a lifetime."

For those who want to explore Discovery Cove but do not wish to participate in a dolphin swim experience, an $89 plus tax admission may be purchased with each all-inclusive package.

The toll-free telephone number for advance reservations, gift certificates and information is 1 877 4-DISCOVERY. The reservation line is staffed from 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. EST seven days a week.

Discovery Cove's Web site - www.discoverycove.com - includes additional information and will begin taking reservations online in January.

Construction of Discovery Cove is proceeding on schedule, with many of the buildings and physical features of the park nearly completed. Most of Discovery Cove's animal residents are now in the care of the four SeaWorld parks and will begin moving into their new home next spring.

"I can't wait for people to see what a beautiful, lush oasis we're creating right here in Orlando," Murru said. "It will be like stepping into another world. Discovery Cove will be the most-exhilarating and yet most-relaxing vacation experience anywhere in the world."