Arranged exclusively for VMX attendees, Behind the Scenes Tours give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with unfamiliar, non-domesticated species in their natural habitat and provide a glimpse into the inner workings of veterinary care and husbandry at these world-renowned facilities.
DATES: January 16 and 17, 2023 TIME: 12:30 PM – 5:45 PM EST WHO CAN ATTEND: Veterinarians, Veterinary Nurse/Technicians, Practice Managers COST: $175/person
Experience a side of SeaWorld that few others ever can. Observe first-hand the veterinary care, husbandry, training, and study of the resident animals of this world-famous park! You will also have the chance to enjoy the athletic performances of dolphins and other marine animals. You’re sure to get splashed!
Buses depart from the Orange County Convention Center – South Concourse at 12:30 PM and return at 5:45 PM. Meet at the shuttle pick-up/drop-off area 15 minutes prior to departure. Registrants are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the Orange County Convention Center on the day of the tour.
Manatee Encounter & Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park
DATES: January 15, 16 and 17, 2023 TIME: 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST WHO CAN ATTEND: All attendees COST: $295/person
Swim all morning with the “gentle giants” of Florida in a once-in-a-lifetime manatee encounter, enjoy a bayside lunch on beautiful Kings Bay at a favorite local restaurant and take a leisurely walk in the afternoon at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. You may encounter endangered and declining species such as the whooping crane and wood stork, red wolf, and Florida Panther, as well as the more abundant wildlife; birds of prey, shorebirds and wading birds, black bear, and alligators. The tour includes wetsuits, snorkels, masks, transportation, lunch, and instruction. Children ages 9-17 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under age 9 are not permitted on this tour.
Buses depart from Orange County Convention Center – South Concourse at 5:00 AM and return at 5:00 PM. Meet at the shuttle pick-up/drop-off area 15 minutes prior to departure. Registrants are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the Orange County Convention Center on the day of the tour.