For 40 years, guests at EPCOT have been diving into a world where curiosity runs as deep as the ocean. Today, The Seas with Nemo & Friends celebrates four decades of inspiring explorers to discover the wonders beneath the waves. Let’s dive in and explore this incredible journey!
The Past: How It All Began
Originally opened as The Living Seas on Jan. 15, 1986, the pavilion offered more than just an aquarium — it was an immersive journey into ocean exploration. Guests began their adventure by boarding hydrolators, which created the sensation of traveling beneath the waves to Seabase Alpha, a futuristic undersea research center. Here, the experience unfolded through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities that made the mysteries of the deep accessible to everyone.
Tom, Animal Policy & Content Director for Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, who helped open The Living Seas, explained that the goal was to transport guests to the ocean floor so they could experience marine research firsthand. “With no large aquariums like this at the time, we had to be creative in engaging guests,” Tom said. “It paid off — we were inspired by the vision to create something as beautiful as the ocean.”
Did you know the pavilion featured the largest indoor saltwater environment in North America when it first opened? And today, it’s still among the largest aquariums! Creating this incredible space wasn’t easy – it took teamwork, creativity, and a whole lot of commitment. In fact, the early development pushed the boundaries of innovation, leading to breakthroughs in filtration systems, habitat design, and even a custom-made saltwater mix.
The pavilion introduced incredible innovations like reverse-flow filtration that recycled 5.7 million gallons of water and curved acrylic windows offering breathtaking underwater views. And it didn’t stop there: a pioneering closed-loop water system set a new benchmark for sustainable practices that influenced aquariums around the world.
In 2004, Turtle Talk with Crush made a splash, giving guests a fun, interactive way to connect with the ocean. Then in 2007, The Living Seas transformed into The Seas with Nemo & Friends — the name guests know and love today — bringing beloved characters and iconic Disney storytelling to the experience.
The Present: Innovation in Animal Care and Conservation
Today, the pavilion is home to over 2,000 animals, 90 marine species and a team of dedicated cast members, including veterinarians, nutritionists, educators, aquarists, divers and many more. Every day brings something new — whether it’s stingray feedings, surgery on a tiny fish, sea turtle training or efforts with cuttlefish that’s helping advance marine care and conservation around the globe.
“All animals at Walt Disney World receive the highest standard of care,” said Dee, an animal care manager at The Seas. “Surgical procedures in fish or sharks are uncommon and often require innovative approaches. We are fortunate to have exceptional resources and a highly dedicated team that enables us to achieve outcomes that might otherwise seem impossible. No two days are the same, and I am continually learning from both my colleagues and the animals in our care.”
The Seas plays a vital role in manatee conservation by providing short-term critical care to these gentle giants. Disney is one of several facilities nationwide participating in the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) — a cooperative effort focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing manatees back into the wild. Fun fact: Disney has successfully rehabilitated and released 30 manatees!
And more than 350 sea turtles have made their way to Walt Disney World — and back into the big blue! Rehabilitating and releasing sick and injured sea turtles is something Disney has long supported for years, and it’s not just vital for the species — it’s incredibly rewarding for cast members who are passionate about these animals.
From the magic of The Seas with Nemo & Friends to the wonders of the real ocean… Beyond Florida, Disney scientists and researchers are working hard to give coral a second chance at life. Their efforts stretch far beyond EPCOT, reaching into the actual sea where innovation and conservation meet to protect fragile ecosystems. As part of Disney’s ongoing commitment to protect the natural beauty of The Bahamas, the team focuses on outplanting coral fragments — helping them grow and create new habitats for fish and other marine species. It’s all about restoring balance and ensuring these vibrant ecosystems thrive for generations to come.
The Disney Conservation Fund is celebrating 30 years of making a difference — with an incredible $132 million invested in wildlife and global conservation efforts! Of that, $24 million has gone directly to projects protecting marine species like manatees, sea turtles, and coral.
The Future: Inspiring the Next Generation
As EPCOT continues to transform, The Seas stays true to its mission – connecting guests to the ocean and advancing animal care.
“When guests connect with these animals, something amazing happens – they start caring about how to protect them,” said Dr. Geoff, animal operations director at The Seas. “We’re impacting the next generation, and they’re the ones who will help us save our oceans. It all begins with a moment of wonder right here at Disney.”
A Pavilion with a Legacy as Deep as the Ocean
From its start as an engineering marvel to its role today as a leader in animal care and conservation, The Seas with Nemo & Friends has always carried EPCOT’s spirit of curiosity and connection. Here’s to 40 years of marine magic and unforgettable moments under The Seas!
Interested in learning more about Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team? Follow Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment on Facebook and Dr. Mark on Instagram.