Moments after Disney announced that it would keep its US theme parks closed "until further notice," the SeaWorld family of theme parks revoked its plans to reopen at the start of next month.
"As part of our continued commitment to the safety of our guests and Ambassadors, and in accordance with guidance from state and local officials, our theme parks will remain temporarily closed. We deeply apologize for any inconvenience," the company said.
The closures apply to the Busch Gardens and SeaWorld theme parks, as well as to Sesame Place and all associated water parks.
The SeaWorld parks had planned an ambitious thrill ride expansion for 2020, with new coasters in Orlando, Tampa, Williamsburg, San Antonio and San Diego. Only the San Antonio coaster had opened before the company announced its temporary closure earlier this month.
The company said today that "we will announce ride openings and new launch dates after we resume normal operations."
Even though the parks are closed to the public, the company will not shut down all operations, as animal care employees will continue to look after the animals at the company's parks. Pretty much all other park employees are being furloughed (i.e. not paid), according to its most recent SEC filing.
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It's the only prudent, responsible thing to do. I was aghast when I saw something on Facebook about Alton Towers opening this weekend; I thought you've got to be kidding. Since then they've changed their tune and gone along with all of the other parks worldwide. I was actually planning to visit Alton Towers for the 4th time and Blackpool Pleasure Beach for the 1st time in a couple of weeks but this is very much off the agenda.