New CMA VR experience allows guests to “ride a jellyfish to the ocean’s surface”
CLEARWATER, FL (Dec. 13, 2023) – Clearwater Marine Aquarium announces the kick-off of an immersive virtual reality experience, “Drop in the Ocean” on Dec. 16. This interactive and social adventure takes visitors on a deep underwater journey, shedding light on the pressing issue of plastic pollution plaguing our world’s oceans.
“Drop in the Ocean” allows guests to ride a jellyfish up to the ocean’s surface, where they will encounter a colorful array of sea creatures and tiny organisms, including micro-plankton. From coming face-to-face with a majestic leatherback turtle to exploring the vastness of the ocean alongside a magnificent whale shark, participants will gain a firsthand understanding of the urgent threat pollution poses to our planet’s delicate ecosystems.
“This unique virtual reality experience is integrated with CMA’s conservation-themed ArtSEA art exhibit, and further emphasizes the importance of protecting our marine environments,” said Anthony Rivera, Chief Operating Officer at CMA. “By combining art and technology, Clearwater Marine Aquarium aims to inspire visitors to take action and make a positive impact on our oceans,” he said.
The adventure begins as you and your friends are magically shrunk down to a mere 2 inches tall, hitching a ride on a jellyfish floating through the ocean. Along the way, guests will encounter an array of marine life. However, the shocking reality of plastic trash will also be revealed, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Utilizing state-of-the-art virtual reality headsets, “Drop in the Ocean” offers an untethered ocean journey for up to six people at a time. Through hand movements and gestures, participants can engage with undersea organisms, fostering an interactive and collaborative environment. Avatars of other individuals in the virtual space are visible, allowing for shared experiences and interactions.
Developed by Pulseworks, in collaboration with Conservation International and Vision 3, this eight-minute-long virtual reality experience is built from the extraordinary photo archive of Academy Award-winning micro-photographer Peter Parks. The narration, provided by renowned explorers Philippe and Ashlan Cousteau, adds depth and insight to the journey. Accompanied by the captivating music of Gold Panda, “Drop in the Ocean” promises to be an eye-opening experience for all.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium invites visitors to dive into the world of virtual reality and join the fight against plastic pollution. “Drop in the Ocean” is a powerful tool that educates, inspires, and empowers
individuals to make a difference. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the wonders of the ocean and become a champion for our planet’s precious ecosystems.
The cost is $12 for guests and $10 for CMA members and can be reserved online or in person. Up to seven guests can be accommodated at one time. Guest must be 5 years old to experience this new VR experience.
###
Media Contact: Marsha Strickhouser | mstrickhouser@CMAquarium.org | (727) 242-0770
- About Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. With a mission to preserve the environment and its marine life, CMA is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, a nurse shark and more. Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. Major motion picture Dolphin Tale (2011) and its sequel Dolphin Tale 2 (2014) features the true stories of rescued resident dolphins Winter and Hope, inspiring millions around the world. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world.
© 2023 Clearwater Marine Aquarium | 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767 | 727-445-1139 | 727-441-1790 | mission.cmaquarium.org | cmaquarium.org
We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization