TAMPA, Fla. — Tickets are now on sale for ZooTampa at Lowry Park's newest encounter, the “Stingray In-water Experience.”
The zoo says people can get up close and personal with the marine animals in their newest environment, Stingray Shores. Starting March 15, guests can wade into the water with the stingrays for up to 20 minutes as part of a 90-minute program.
People must be at least 4 feet tall to get into the experience, according to ZooTampa. Children aged 17 and under must be with a paid, participating adult.
ZooTampa wants guests to know this important information:
- People with shellfish and fish allergies should not participate since those are part of a stingray’s diet, according to the ZooTampa website.
- Admission to the zoo is required to gain access to the encounter. Tickets for it, however, will be available by reservation only.
- ZooTampa will provide a wetsuit to guests for the safety of the animals in their care. No outside wetsuits are permitted, and appropriate swimwear is required to be worn under the wetsuit.
- Cameras are also not allowed in the water. A designated photographer will be in the water taking pictures of those enjoying the experience.
- The encounter operates under rain or shine, so inclement weather will not affect the program, unless under extreme circumstances like lightning.
Single-day general admission is about $45 for those 12 years old and up and about $35 for those under 12. The zoo also offers an annual membership.
The official opening date for ZooTampa’s new experience will be determined sometime next week, said spokesperson Sandra Morrison in an email to 10 Tampa Bay.