By Megan Trainer
You won’t want to miss all the excitement at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park this year! Located on Okaloosa Island, the Gulfarium recently unveiled its new Dolphin Oasis, an exciting new addition which sets a new benchmark for marine life experiences. Further, this announcement was accompanied by news of an upcoming renovation to welcome manatee rehabilitation and the launch of “C.A.R.E. on the Coast,” an event championing sea turtle conservation. These developments represent significant strides in the park’s ongoing commitment to the preservation and education of marine life, promising enriching encounters for all visitors.
Dolphin Oasis
Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park was excited to inaugurate its highly anticipated Dolphin Oasis during a momentous ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 8, 2024. The event marked a significant milestone for the renowned marine park and the region’s attractions, drawing esteemed guests including local dignitaries, politicians and business leaders.
Spanning 2.2 acres of sandy dunes and palms along the picturesque emerald waters of the Florida Gulf Coast, Dolphin Oasis reflects Gulfarium’s commitment to animal welfare, conservation education and visitor experience. With a $30 million investment, the expansion comprises three large interconnected habitats and three husbandry habitats, totaling over one million gallons of Gulf saltwater. The immersive, natural-themed experience embodies the beauty of the Emerald Coast.
The grandstand seating for 480 guests and a 27-foot acrylic split-level viewing area in the exhibit habitat offer unparalleled opportunities to witness the beauty of dolphins up close. Moreover, the habitat is designed to serve as a future nursery for dolphin calves, enriching the park’s offerings. The new habitat also allows guests to get up close and personal with the dolphins during exclusive encounter opportunities.
Manatees, Coming This Fall
Patrick Berry, CEO of Gulfarium, announced during the ceremony a multi-million-dollar renovation of the original 300,000-gallon dolphin habitat to accommodate manatee rehabilitation patients as part of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). This initiative underscores Gulfarium’s dedication to marine life conservation, with plans to welcome manatees in need beginning fall of 2024.
C.A.R.E. ON THE COAST: An Event for a Cause
Saturday, May 4 | 3:30 – 7 p.m. | Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Okaloosa Island
Additionally, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is excited to introduce “C.A.R.E. on the Coast,” a new event dedicated to supporting sea turtle conservation through the Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center. Scheduled for May 4, 2024, at 3:30 p.m., the event promises an immersive experience into sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation and release efforts.
Highlights of “C.A.R.E. on the Coast” include a private dolphin presentation at the NEW Dolphin oasis, live music, an in-depth look at the C.A.R.E. Center and its current patients, food and beverage vendors, conservation-based vendors, silent auctions and raffles. Early registration discounts of 25% are available until May 1 with code EARLYTURTLE, ensuring participation in this celebration of marine life conservation.
Tickets for C.A.R.E. on the Coast are on sale now at Gulfarium.com, with limited availability. Join others on the beautiful Emerald Coast for an evening filled with education, entertainment and a shared commitment to safeguarding our marine ecosystems.
For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.gulfarium.com/careonthecoast.
Follow Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center on Facebook and Instagram for event updates and marine conservation news.
