EPCOT is the place to be right now! With the all-new construction that is currently taking place and that will continue to take place as EPCOT continues to transform to the times, we still love a lot of the current attractions. The Seas with Nemo and Friends is one of those attractions! Not only does the ride revolve around a fun-loving film it also takes you through a giant aquarium!
The aquarium guests can see throughout the ride is one of the largest saltwater aquariums in the world. The aquarium was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in consultation with some of the world’s foremost oceanographic experts. The aquarium features over two hundred species of sea life including dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, as well as a rainbow of multi-colored tropical fish. The aquarium tank is 200 feet in diameter, is 27 feet deep and the glass is 8 inches thick so guests need not worry.
The aquarium was first opened in 1986. Guests would board a Hydrolater down to an underwater Seacab where guests would take a short ride through an underwater tunnel. In 2001, the Seacabs were removed allowing guests to walk through the tunnels. The Seas with Nemo and Friends was introduced to EPCOT, making this the first Disney film in EPCOT, debuting on January 24, 2007.
This ride begins before you even enter the queue!! Located outside of the ride is a giant rock marking the location of the ride. Part of this sign is a coral reef scene featuring colorful fish featured throughout the film. However, the main attraction to the sign is the seagulls. You can often hear these guys before you see them as they “scream” “Mine, Mine, Mine” at passersby!
When you enter the building, the queue begins with a seashore setting that transitions to an underwater theme. Disney Imagineers did an amazing job with this queue! With the use of special lighting and sound effects, it appears as if you’re under the sea. Guests can hear the waves crashing and even a passing boat!
As guests reach the boarding area, they’re transported by “Clam-Mobiles” on the famous Omnimover that many Disney attractions feature! Guests will join Mr. Ray on a field trip, bringing them on a journey through the seas as Nemo goes missing and the pursuit to find him begins. Eventually, guests join Marlin and Dory as they go in pursuit of everyone’s favorite clownfish.
Throughout the Seas with Nemo and Friends, animation and puppetry combine to make this a fun-filled trip into Nemo’s world. The technology featured throughout the ride really makes it seem as if the fish from “Finding Nemo” is inside the 5.7 million gallon aquarium for the final sequences.
The musical finale is my favorite! It features Nemo being reunited with his Dad and friends as they sing “Big Blue World” as they say goodbye. It makes me tear up every time!
After the ride, guests can explore the aquarium even further by visiting the two-stories the aquarium is located on with many viewing tanks for your pleasure! In addition, guests can visit Bruce’s Sharkworld. This area is located on the first floor of the pavilion. Bruce’s Sharkworld is a super fun play area themed around Bruce the shark and additional “Finding Nemo” characters. Guests can use the interactive touch screens or pose with a life-sized replica of the great white shark Bruce.
Before you leave, be sure to check out Turtle Talk with Crush! During this interactive attraction located near The Seas with Nemo and Friends, kids can chat with Crush himself live! AThe show is different every time due to the shoe being live, which means that your kids will want to visit over and over again!
Have you been on the Seas with Nemo and Friends?! Tell us if you love this ride in the comments!
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