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(Atlanta, Georgia) Just in time to beat the heat this summer, Georgia Aquarium’s newest, “coolest” experience allows guests to discover the fascination of the chilly unknown with the launch of the Beluga & Friends Interactive Program. Located within the Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest Gallery, the Beluga & Friends Interactive Program is an inspirational journey connecting guests with beluga whales and other fascinating marine animals. This exploration into the arctic-themed habitat provides an exclusive and in-depth look into Georgia Aquarium’s daily animal care and whale conservation.

“We are thrilled to offer a new, hands-on experience to inspire guests through our beluga whale ambassadors here at Georgia Aquarium,” said David Kimmel, Georgia Aquarium president and COO. “The Aquarium is committed to providing opportunities to increase knowledge, change attitudes, create emotional connections and ultimately transform behaviors, which can result in positive impact to beluga whale conservation.”

As a leader in aquatic research and conservation, Georgia Aquarium is dedicated to inspiring and educating the public on beluga whales and the threats they face in the wild. There are estimated to be more than 150,000 beluga whales throughout their range in the northern seas that make up the Arctic. Major threats that impact beluga whales include risks related to increased rapid environmental changes.

The two-hour Beluga & Friends Interactive Program includes an informative orientation where guests learn about beluga whales, exclusive behind-the-scenes view of the beluga whale and harbor seal exhibit, the opportunity wade into the water and interact with beluga whales alongside animal training staff, and general admission to Georgia Aquarium. All guests participating in the program will receive a souvenir Georgia Aquarium towel and photograph to commemorate their awe-inspiring experience. In addition, wetsuits, locker room and shower facilities are provided.

Guests can participate daily at 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., with times subject to change. The cost for the program is $224.95 plus tax, $205.95 plus tax for Annual Imagination Pass Members. Participants under 16 years of age must each be accompanied by a participating adult responsible for the minor and guests must be 60 inches tall to participate. Comfort in and around water, including standing in waist-deep water, is necessary to ensure a safe and engaging experience.

For more information on Georgia Aquarium’s conservation efforts or to reserve a spot in the program, visit www.georgiaaquarium.org or call 404-581-4000.

About Georgia Aquarium:
Georgia Aquarium is the world’s largest and one of the top Atlanta attractions with more than 10 million gallons of water and the largest collection of aquatic animals. Considered one of the best things to do in Atlanta for visitors of all ages, the mission of Georgia Aquarium is to be an entertaining, educational and scientific institution featuring exhibits and programs of the highest standards while promoting the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. The Aquarium is also the ideal space for Atlanta wedding receptions or Atlanta meetings. Georgia Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. For additional information, visit www.georgiaaquarium.org.

Tags: Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Atlanta, Beluga & Friends Interactive Program, Fulton County, Georgia, Georgia Aquarium, Georgia-Pacific Cold Water Quest Gallery