Return to Marineland

by Greg May
(Orlando, Florida)

I was awash in a sea of emotion as we approached Marineland on A1A. Gone were the tell-tale arches that used to loom in the distance revealing the attraction's location. It was my first visit back to Marineland since the demolition of the world's first oceanarium. While the main reason for my visit was to be interviewed by Flagler College student Emma Pulley, I also wanted to see Marineland's new Dolphin Conservation Center.

As I berthed the car in the new parking lot in which once stood Marineland's Oceanarium, my friend from South Africa, Jamie Richies, and I made our way toward the main entrance where we met Emma. The attractive 20-year old was doing an Oral History Project on the history of Marineland and was about to 'pick my brain' on the memories of my many visits.

I was happy to see that the original entrance walkway and gift shop had been preserved as we made our way along the oceanfront path to the Dolphin Conservation Center. The huge new pool looked like a blue lagoon as we were led around its perimeter by the youthful dolphin trainers.

My heart leaped as the girls signalled the dolphins to jump in unison as they welcomed us. And when we were introduced to 'Nellie' - the oldest dolphin in captivity - I knew I was back home.

'Nellie' was born at Marineland in 1952 and will turn 58 in February 2011. No other marine life park can boast a longevity record for their marine mammals as can Marineland. 'Nellie' welcomed us with a "flipper-wave" and squealed with delight as Emma and Jamie tickled her chin.

The late afternoon sun created dancing sunlight and rippling shadows as we watched the dolphins dart and play in their watery realm through the acrylic underwater windows.

Emma and Jamie got a biology lesson as the Marineland trainers introduced them to the dolphins one by one. I couldn't help wondering what 'Nellie', 'Chubby', 'Alvin'
and the others thought of us as they made us laugh with
their Bronx-cheer vocalizations and "Flipper" cackles.

Although the "Porpoise Show" is gone, Marineland is the best place to get "up close and personal" with a bottle-nose dolphin. A variety of interactive programs are available for all ages which include swim programs with the sleek, friendly mammals.

To make a reservation, call Marineland's Dolphin Conservation Center at (904)471-1111.