Get Obsessed With The New SeaWorld / Guy Harvey Partnership

SeaWorld is not only talking the talk, but they’re walking the walk.

Yesterday, April 27, 2016, saw a huge announcement from two of the biggest names in marine conservation.

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and famous marine artist and conservationist Guy Harvey are now partners, focused on ocean health and the plight of sharks in the wild. They’re going to be working together to spread the word, advance science and research to better understand how to protect sharks and their habitats.

The timing is perfect considering the brand new badass Mako roller coaster is set to open at SeaWorld in June.

Guy Harvey aficionados will know that the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation and Guy Harvey Research Institute have been large and in charge in this effort for years, and SeaWorld CEO Joel Manby says that they’re excited to put meaningful dollars, research and man hours toward sharks.

But not many people would know that recently, members of SeaWorld’s animal care team joined a Guy Harvey Research Institute shark tagging excursion off the coast of Mexico. The partnership is already a match made in heaven, so to speak.

But we’ll let the man of the hour speak for himself.

“The partnership with SeaWorld will ensure our ocean conservation messages and our efforts to protect Mako sharks reach a broader audience here in the United States and worldwide,” said renowned scientist, marine wildlife artist and conservationist Dr. Guy Harvey. “We are thrilled to gain the support of the SeaWorld team as we continue to bring educational initiatives and conservation efforts to life.”

Remember that coaster we mentioned? It’s going to be awesome, not only because of the thrills, but also because it will be used as a major platform shark conservation. While waiting in line to ride, guests will be educated and entertained through digital platforms, providing real science about sharks in the wild and ways they can step up and protect them.

BUT WHAT ABOUT THE ART?

Don’t worry – Guy Harvey is commissioning a bunch of exclusive paintings and apparel, which of course will only be available at SeaWorld. SeaWorld will be putting their money where their mouth is and donating a portion of the proceeds directly back to the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation.

The team here at AO is psyched to see where this stellar partnership takes both organizations.

*All images in this post belong to SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.