In a move designed to prioritize the best interests of marine animals, Disney is relocating one manatee and three dolphins from EPCOT's "The Seas with Nemo & Friends" attraction. 

For decades, these marine animals have delighted visitors, but now, change is necessary for their well-being. Lou, a beloved manatee, will leave EPCOT on September 11, 2024, to be transferred to a manatee rehabilitation center in Florida, FOX 35 Orlando reports. After Lou’s departure, another manatee will join Lil Joe, who will remain at EPCOT, continuing Disney’s work in manatee rehabilitation.

 

Care for Manatees and Dolphins

Disney’s decision stems from consultations with experts, including the Manatee Rehabilitation Partnership and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services. Florida's manatee population is in crisis due to environmental threats, and Lou’s move to a specialized facility is part of a broader manatee welfare strategy, the Orlando Sentinel reports. 

Ensuring a Better Future

Alongside Lou, three male dolphins will also be relocated from The Seas Pavilion to the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Florida. This decision follows an evaluation to determine what’s best for the dolphins, whose future well-being will be ensured by moving to a larger, more suitable habitat. The Disney Tourist Blog further notes that there will be no dolphin replacements at EPCOT.

The Gulfarium, where the dolphins are headed, is accredited by leading marine animal care organizations, and aims to provide the same level of care to the dolphins that they received at EPCOT. Disney has also committed to working with the Gulfarium team to ensure the transition goes smoothly, according to Entertainment Weekly.

 

Guest Experiences at EPCOT

The relocation of these dolphins means changes to some of EPCOT’s guest experiences. The Dolphins in Depth tour, which provided visitors a look at the dolphins, will conclude on October 19, 2024. However, Disney will continue offering other engaging experiences, such as DiveQuest, which is expected to return in 2025 after infrastructure updates are complete, according to FOX 35 Orlando. 

While dolphins will no longer be featured at EPCOT, the aquarium will continue housing a wide variety of marine species, including sea turtles, sharks, rays, and colorful fish

 

Conservation and Animal Welfare

Lou’s new home will provide him with the specialized care he needs to thrive, while the dolphins will benefit from a more expansive and enriching environment at Gulfarium. Though EPCOT will no longer house dolphins, it will still provide opportunities for guests to learn about and appreciate marine life.

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