by L.S. Watts

Created on: July 07, 2009

When you think of whales in captivity, most people think of Shamu at Sea World. However, killer whales are actually of the dolphin family. Several facilities have beluga whale exhibits and interactive programs. This is probably due to their relatively small size compared to other whales.

Sea World

Sea World has four locations available. Although San Diego, California was the location of the first Sea World, they have expanding to Orlando, Florida, San Antonio, TX and Queensland, Australia. Although there are similarities, each park has a variety of different exhibits unique to each location.

It is considered the best place to observe whales in captivity. Its main attraction is the Shamu show featuring killer whales. Although killer whales are technically dolphins, they also have a Beluga exhibit.

In addition to the beluga whale exhibit, Sea World Orlando and Sea World San Antonio offer a chance to participate in the Beluga's Interactive Program. The program costs $149 per person in Orlando and $170 in San Antonio. This does not include the cost of admission to Sea World itself. To participate you must be at least 10 years of age or older at the Orlando location and at least 7 years old at the San Antonio location. Participants would be able to touch and feed the Belugas along with assisting the trainers in the care of these whales. The program includes a wetsuit and an area to change, but you must provide your own swimsuit. San Antonio also includes a 6x8 photo and a Sea World towel.

For more information on booking your own Sea World adventure, you can visit their website.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

Shouka is a featured event at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. She is a killer whale making waves in the San Francisco Bay area. Because she likes mixing things up, each show is distinctly different. The Shouka Stadium is designed with the Pacific Northwest in mind. As you enjoy the show, you will learn more about killer whales, dolphins, and Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest.

General admission to the park is $44.95 for adults and $29.99 for children under 4 feet. If you prefer, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom has season passes available for only $59.99. They also have group rates, backyard safari and more. For more information, visit their website.

Mystic Aquarium

The Mystic Aquarium is located in Mystic, Connecticut. They offer a whale exhibit staring three beluga whales named Naku, Inuk, and Kela. This exhibit is outdoors and measures at one acre,

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