SeaWorld Orlando has made a change to the type of walkers allowed inside its theme parks.
Both rollators and/or wheeled walkers with seats are no longer allowed inside SeaWorld Orlando. Walkers without seats are still allowed inside the theme park.
A spokesperson for SeaWorld Orlando confirmed that the safety measure was recently updated and added to its web page. However, it’s not known how proactively the measure was distributed, nor when it was implemented.
“We are committed to providing a safe, accessible, and inclusive experience” — SeaWorld Orlando statement via a spokesperson
“We are committed to providing a safe, accessible, and inclusive experience for our guests and Ambassadors. To support this, we have recently updated our guidance regarding rollator and wheeled walkers with seats. These devices can pose a safety concern if not used in accordance with manufacturer requirements, which strictly prohibit using them as a wheelchair,” SeaWorld Orlando said in a statement.
What does the new policy say?
“For the safety of our guests and employees, rollator walkers with seats on them are not permitted at SeaWorld Orlando. Alternative personal transportation options, including standard wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs), are available. Walkers without a seat are permitted,” reads the policy on SeaWorld’s website.
Lakeland Gazette did a brief review of the owners manuals for some popular rollator products. The manual does state that rollator are intended to be used as a mobility aid, but are not intended to be used to push people around.
“Do not have anyone push you while you are seated on the Rollator. This is a walking aid only and is not to be used as a transportation device,” read one owner’s manual posted online.
“It’s very disappointing. I’m very disappointed in SeaWorld”
What they’re saying:
Nancy Schwartz said SeaWorld Orlando is her “favorite place at Christmas” and that she visits the theme park three days a week with her husband. They live in Kissimmee.
She said last Friday night she was allowed in with her rollator wheelchair. However, on Saturday, security stopped her and refused to let her in, citing the new policy – a change that to her was an abrupt surprise.
“It’s very disappointing. I’m very disappointed in SeaWorld,” she told us Hannah McKenzie.
She said she’s been at SeaWorld with her seated walker dozens of times.
What do guests need to know?
Guests can bring their own wheelchairs and electric convenience vehicles, or they can rent one from SeaWorld. Walkers without seats are still allowed inside.
How much do rentals cost?
Rentals can be made online in advance or near Guest Services inside the theme park. Click here for details.
Wheelchair rentals start at $40
Strollers start at $40
Four-wheel electric scooters start at $110.
Prices vary by day, demand, and availability.
Clarification: SeaWorld’s rollator policy added to story.
Meh – who goes to Sea World anyway?