Sea World is a great day out. Getting up close and personal with the animals via the experiences they offer is really a special thing (though be prepared to pay a little more to enjoy them).
As per other tips and reviews, gates open at or around 9am, so get there early, and pre purchased tickets are the best way to go to avoid lengthy queues. We got there at 8:30 and the line was already a out 500 deep.
We had pre-booked to go on the penguin experience, so that was the first order of business when we got there, we checked in, had an hour to kill before it started, so grabbed a drink and soaked up some of the sun and atmosphere whilst we waited. Food and drink was a little pricey, and we didn't notice the drinks special ($10 gets you a souvenir cup, with unlimited refills all day) in the morning, would have been a huge saving as it does get warm in the sun!
11am rolled around, and the penguin experience started. W were taken behind the scenes, and learnt a little about the penguins, what they eat, where they came from, how they behave ect, and then led to a room and dressed in snow clothing. After a quick change, we were take up a set of stairs, and all given a bottle of bubble liquid, and told today we would be interacting with the penguins, by blowing bubbles in which they like to pop with their beaks. Led through a huge door, and we were now in the exhibit. People were staring at us through the glass, as we walked on the snow and ice, it was really weird being on the other side! The penguins started to swarm us, letting us pat them (some, you quickly learnt which ones didnt like being touched after a few bites!) as they warmed to us, and played with the bubbles we blew, they got cheeky, and in the 20minutes we had in the enclosure, we really got to see their personalities come out, and I really didnt want to leave.id highly highly recommend this to anyone.
After that was over, we walked a lap of the park, seeing everything from polar bears to seals, dolphins to sharks and rays. Lots of interactive areas where you can get involved too, like ray feeding, was lots of fun.
Skipped all the rides, would have liked to go on some but my partner wasn't too keen.
Exits though the gift shop, always make my heart flutter and I assume it will cost the price of a small car for a key ring and a fridge magnet. Sea World though, surprised me pleasantly. My partner picked up a 60" stuffed polar bear.. It's almost as big as her. Instantly I thought $200, but she got change from a $50 note!!! Getting it back to Sydney wasn't fun though haha.
Rally enjoyed my day at the park, love the way that its based around conservation, and the money they make goes back into things like rescuing animals and ensuring their well being. Going on the animal tour, and seeing how much the keepers care for, and their bonds with these animals highlights the work they do, and I'll be back for sure read more