The Beautiful Manatees Have Quietly Vanished from EPCOT

EPCOT SeaBase Aquarium is home to an array of aquatic life. But, the popular manatee exhibit is currently roped off.

SeaBase

SeaBase Aquarium is part of the Seas with Nemo and Friends in EPCOT at the Walt Disney World Resort. The Seas in World Nature holds more than just a ride!

SeaBase aquarium gives Guests a chance to learn about the beautiful aquatic life dwelling in our planet’s oceans. Guests can visit numerous aquatic exhibits. Or, they can also enjoy Turtle Talk with Crush as well as an interactive playground.

But, lately, some of the aquatic life has been vanishing. The dolphins have been relocated, and now another exhibit is roped off.

Vanishing Manatees

Recently, I (Katie) went to SeaBase hoping to visit long-term EPCOT manatee resident Little Joe. Little Joe recently received a new friend named Inigo. You can read about her HERE.

However, we noticed that the Manatee exhibit was curtained off and inaccessible to visitors. The upper viewing location was also roped off.

Inigo only moved in a few months ago. However, now it looks as if neither manatee is still residing at SeaBase.

Where Did They Go?

So far, there is no official statement from Disney. One cast member told us that she was surprised because the manatees had just been there the day before. However, other Cast Members have said that Little Joe and Inigo have been relocated to new long-term homes at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park and Mote Marine Laboratory.

Moves are typically made in the best interest of the well-being of the animals. So hopefully both Little Joe and Inigo are enjoying new spaces.

Manatees Little Joe and Inigo are no longer in their tank at SeaBase in EPCOT.

EPCOT’s manatee Lou was also relocated earlier this year. Based on conversation with Cast Members, it is possible that The Seas is moving in the direction of becoming a rehab center for these animals rather than a long-term care facility. Perhaps new manatees will move in soon.

Did you have a chance to visit the manatees at EPCOT? Do you hope to see more manatees at SeaBase? Let us know. And, be sure to pass the story along to friends and family so they can manage their expectations if they visit the attraction.