Ok finally - a few more of your questions are answered! Let me know if I have missed anything. Capt_BJ - I hope answer #4 is helpful for you.
Is the kids area enclosed?
Aquaticas childrens attraction, Katas Kookaburra Cove, has two entrances and two exits to the area. The attraction was built knowing that parents of young children wish to be close proximity with them at all times. With guest comfort top of mind, we placed in the close surrounding areas a nursing mothers room, a first aid station and family restrooms. This is to limit the amount of 'wandering' that children will need to do to find the facilities or assistance they may need, keeping them closer to their families. In addition, park guidelines state that parents should be closely supervising any children under 48 inches tall.
Are animal exhibitions (on foot or in a viewing area) and feeding times all noted on the map/park literature?
In the short term, we aim to provide a feeding schedule for the Commersons Dolphin exhibit, as we realize this is an exciting time of day for our guests. In regard to birds and other species that are seen regularly at Aquatica, there is currently no set schedule for when they will appear. One of the reasons is that certain species are weather sensitive and we take precautions to ensure that that our animals are both comfortable and safe when interacting with park guests. We hope that these random appearances by various animals will add elements of surprise and intrigue to our guests.
Wheelchair accessibility:
Aquatica has taken steps to ensure that our park is enjoyable for those using wheelchairs. Sand wheelchairs are available for rent at gift shop Sunnies and Such.All park pathways are ADA accessible to all attractions -- until the point where a guest would reach the stairs to the rides towers. Aquatica has met all ADA guidelines in regard to for handrails, closed risers and width and height of attraction steps. Roas Rapids, the rapid river attraction, has beach entry (no stairs) and is not recommended for those who cannot walk, due to the quick pace of the currant, which moves guests at 5 ft. per second. However, if a guest is not able to access steps, Aquatica offers many other attractions to enjoy, including two wave pools; Loggerheads Lane, a lazy river; and a family interactive area called Walkabout Waters.
Why are customers allowed to float on vests down a lazy river at one Busch park (in VA), but not at Aquatica?
Water Country Williamsburg features a lazy river in which guests use inner tubes, and a rapid river in which guests use life vests. While some rides at Water Country Williamsburg, owned and operated by Busch Entertainment Company, and Aquatica may appear to be similar to our guests, they are actually quite different in nature. Requirements for each waterpark attraction differ based on guidelines provided by the ride manufacturer. These are meant to ensure guest safety based on many factors including the ride type, ride dynamics and water depth.
