Ms. Prior also noted that the Virgin Islands attract a large number of repeat visitors requiring attractions like Coral World to offer new activities to encourage visitors to come again.

In Snuba™, the swimmer uses the swimfins, diving mask, weights, and breathing apparatus commonly used in scuba diving, but the air tanks that are usually strapped to the back rest on rafts that remain on the water's surface. Snuba diving is a popular activity in tropical tourist areas because it is easy to learn and does not require certification. Each participant is physically connected to the raft by an air hose. The raft has handles around its perimeter, giving swimmers the option to hold onto the raft while staying with the group. Each group of Snuba™ divers receives an orientation in the use of the equipment and safety procedures before entering the water near Coral World’s Undersea Observatory. A Snuba™ trained guide leads a maximum of four divers on a tour of the beautiful coral reefs in the vicinity of the Undersea Observatory.

Power Snorkeling is snorkeling with some added zip. Safe, fun and environmentally friendly, a motorized handheld unit gives the user a new level of mobility and adventure. Participants can free dive for a closer look at marine life or stay near the surface as their guide leads them on an exploration of the area around Coral World’s Undersea Observatory.

These new adventures join several other interactive opportunities Coral World has added to its offerings since its reopening in 1998. The first was the Sea Trek Helmet Dive, which opened at Coral World in 2001. In 2006, Coral World launched the Shark Encounter program designed to put guests in close contact with juvenile sharks in the Shark Shallows Pool. It also opened the Lorikeet Garden where guests can enter the habitat and feed these incredibly sociable and amusing birds.

In 2007, Coral World added a swim with sea lions program. Two of the four South American sea lions that live at Coral World give presentations, twice a day except Fridays, in the Marine Gardens so visitors who do not wish to swim with them can still appreciate the amazing intelligence and agility of these magnificent animals. Recently, Coral World also began offering Turtle Encounters to allow visitors to get up close and personal with two of the rescued, non-releasable green sea turtles that are permanent residents at the park.

For more information, please contact:
Valerie Peters or Kitty Edwards
Coral World Marketing Department
marketing@coralworldvi.com
(340) 775-1555 ext. 246