family fun
New Disney Cruise Line Island Destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas to Welcome Guests in Summer 2024
One-of-a-kind island experience combines breathtaking natural beauty with the magic of Bahamian hospitality, storytelling and artistry
CELEBRATION, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — In summer 2024, Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time. Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
“At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty.”
New details about Lighthouse Point reveal a relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.
“Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way,” said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”
Fun and Relaxation for Everyone
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
- Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.
- A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
- A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.
- Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more.
- North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.
- Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.
- Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.
- Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.
- A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.
SOURCE Disney Cruise Line
Lifestyle
The big summer trip is getting harder to pull off. What families are doing instead.
Big Summer Trip: Ask most Americans about their favorite summer memory, and water shows up somewhere — a lake at dusk, a boat rocking gently, quiet mornings with nowhere else to be.
The big summer trip is getting harder to pull off. What families are doing instead.
(Tiffany Miller) Ask most Americans about their favorite summer memory, and water shows up somewhere — a lake at dusk, a boat rocking gently, quiet mornings with nowhere else to be. For a lot of them, that feeling has been easier to remember than recreate.
As travel costs climb and traditional vacations feel increasingly complicated, the appeal of something closer to home has grown. Each year, 85 million Americans find it on the water, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
Part of boating’s appeal is rooted in nostalgia and connection. Many people are drawn to the kinds of unplugged experiences tied to childhood — time outdoors, shared adventures and uninterrupted moments together. According to a Discover Boating survey, 85% of current boat owners say their fondest childhood memories involved being on the water, with nearly half recalling those experiences before age 13.
The costs look different when stacked against a traditional vacation. According to NMMA, a week at an all-inclusive resort for a family of four runs around $5,000 to $8,000. Boat rentals run around $75 per hour, entry-level boat financing costs a few hundred dollars a month and boat club memberships offer access to multiple boats for a monthly fee, typically $150 to $375 after a one-time initiation fee. Many families are discovering that boating can offer multiple smaller vacations throughout the summer at a comparable cost.
Those lower-commitment options are more than just a budgeting tool — they are a first step into the lifestyle. According to the survey, 45% of prospective boat buyers expressed interest in renting or chartering before committing to a purchase, while interest in boat clubs and fractional ownership also remained high. The survey further found that 49% plan to own within two years, and 46% are focused on boats priced under $50,000.
For Americans deciding how to spend their time this summer, that flexibility may be part of boating’s growing appeal. It offers something many vacations promise but do not always deliver: the ability to truly disconnect and be present — not just once a year, but repeatedly throughout the season.
The pull toward the water may be deeper than nostalgia. Research shows there’s a connection between water and well-being — the sight and sound of water can help people feel calmer, lower stress and support overall wellness. The concept of “Blue Mind” describes the mild meditative state associated with being near, in, on or under water. For families looking to unplug, boating offers a way to step away from screens, slow down and recharge.
Methodology
The quantitative survey was fielded Aug. 22, 2025 through Sept. 12, 2025. It included 500 boat owners and 500 prospective owners. Boat owners are defined as those who own (or used to own) a boat and consider their primary vessel a motorized/power boat or sailboat. Prospective owners are defined as 50% or more likely to purchase a motorized/power boat or sailboat in the future and not a current or lapsed owner. Note: All insights collected reflect opinions of surveyed boat owners and prospective owners only.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
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Last Updated on June 2, 2026 by Daily News Staff
SeaWorld is leaning hard into summer nights in 2026, rolling out a coast-to-coast entertainment lineup across Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio. The headline addition: all three parks will feature all-new nighttime drone shows, paired with nighttime animal presentations, seasonal concerts, parades, and event-style programming designed to keep families in the park after sunset.
SeaWorld says the goal is a bigger, more immersive summer experience that blends animal encounters with high-energy entertainment. Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts (SeaWorld’s parent company), said the company is “raising the bar across the country” with a mix of “cutting-edge drone displays” and “nonstop family fun” meant to create lasting memories.
What’s new across all three parks
Across Orlando, San Diego, and San Antonio, SeaWorld’s summer push centers on nighttime programming. The parks are introducing new drone spectacles (with San Diego and San Antonio debuting drone shows for the first time, and Orlando launching a new version), plus new nighttime animal presentations and event-style entertainment.
Families planning travel around theme parks will want to watch two things: start dates and nighttime schedules, since several offerings roll out in late May and mid-June depending on the park.
SeaWorld Orlando: Electric Ocean returns June 12
In Orlando, SeaWorld’s summer nights are anchored by Electric Ocean, beginning June 12. The event is built as a full evening block: performance show, dance party energy, animal presentations, and a closing sky show.
Electric Ocean includes:
- Hydro Surge: Cirque Spectacular Show, a high-energy cirque-style production with acrobatics, dancers, and live drumming
- Club SeaGlow, an evening DJ party with dancers and atmospheric acts
- An all-new drone spectacle, featuring hundreds of synchronized drones forming ocean-themed scenes
- Ignite: A Fireworks Spectacular, returning with an enhanced mix of fireworks, fountains, lighting, and music
Also beginning June 12, SeaWorld Orlando is introducing three new nighttime animal presentations:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
- Dolphins: Touch the Sky
SeaWorld also teased a new attraction opening this summer: Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice, described as a scientific mission exploring the most powerful forces that shape one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
SeaWorld San Diego: Drone show debut, Shark Encounter, and a summer concert series
SeaWorld San Diego’s summer programming begins May 22, with a slate that runs from daytime experiences into nighttime entertainment. The biggest “first” is the park’s debut drone show.
New offerings starting May 22 include:
- Ocean of Dreams Drone Show, a 12-minute nighttime show featuring 600 synchronized drones set to a soaring soundtrack
- Shark Encounter, a refreshed, interactive, immersive experience featuring sharks from 11 species
- Dolphin Adventures, featuring dolphins, pilot whales, and “the next generation of dolphins”
- The Wonders of North American Wildlife, highlighting native wildlife diversity and rescue/rehabilitation stories
- Deep Sea Disco, a dance-focused nighttime experience under SkyTower lights
On June 12, SeaWorld San Diego adds three nighttime animal presentations:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
- Dolphins: Touch the Sky
The park is also bringing back fan-favorite shows including BMX Blast! Powered by BODYARMOR and Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove. Plus, SeaWorld says its 2026 Summer Concert Series will run every Saturday, spotlighting artists tied to ’90s and early-2000s hip hop and R&B.
SeaWorld San Antonio: Electric Ocean, a 400-drone finale, and a new family coaster
SeaWorld San Antonio’s summer lineup also starts May 22, led by its own version of Electric Ocean. The park’s summer nights are built around parade energy, stunt action, and a drone finale.
Electric Ocean in San Antonio includes:
- RhythMotion Ocean Parade, featuring floats, dancers, and characters
- Hydropower: Xtreme FX, a waterski stunt show with pyrotechnics, lasers, and live music
- SeaWorld Illuminight Drone Finale, featuring 400 synchronized drones creating marine-life-inspired animations
San Antonio is also adding two nighttime animal presentations beginning May 22:
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up the Night
- Sea Lions Tonite
For families looking for a ride-centered reason to visit, SeaWorld San Antonio is promoting Barracuda Strike, described as the tallest inverted family coaster in North America.
Annual Pass angle for repeat visits
SeaWorld is positioning its Annual Pass as the best way to experience the summer lineup, emphasizing unlimited visits and perks like savings on merchandise, reserved seating, and add-ons.
A note on SeaWorld’s conservation and rescue work
Alongside the entertainment rollout, SeaWorld highlighted its conservation and animal rescue efforts. The company says it has helped more than 42,000 animals to date and that the SeaWorld Conservation Fund has provided more than $20 million to nearly 1,400 organizations since 2003.
Planning tips: what to watch before you book
If you’re planning a family trip around these summer events, the key details to confirm are:
- Event start dates (May 22 vs. June 12 depending on the park)
- Nighttime showtimes for drone shows and animal presentations
- Concert dates (San Diego’s Saturday series)
- Park hours and whether any offerings require reservations or have limited seating
Source: SeaWorld (press release distributed via PRNewswire, May 7, 2026).
Related: Sea World Orlando
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The Earth
Vancouver Aquarium and Aquarium du Québec Team Up to Expand Care for Rescued Sea Otters
Vancouver Aquarium will transfer rescued sea otters Hardy, Mak, Quatse and Taz to Aquarium du Québec in June, expanding Canada’s capacity for care.
A new partnership between two of Canada’s best-known aquariums is about to change what sea otter rescue and long-term care can look like nationwide.
On May 7, the Vancouver Aquarium announced it will transfer four rescued sea otters—Hardy, Mak, Quatse, and Taz—to the Aquarium du Québec in early June. The move supports the opening of Aquarium du Québec’s new sea otter habitat and creates much-needed capacity at the Vancouver Aquarium for future rescue cases.
Why this transfer matters
The Vancouver Aquarium works alongside the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) to rescue and rehabilitate hundreds of marine animals each year across the Pacific Northwest. The goal for every patient is release back into the ocean—but not every animal can return to the wild.
In this case, the aquarium says its sea otters were rescued as orphaned pups and later deemed non-releasable by Canadian and U.S. government agencies. Without the chance to develop key survival skills, many orphaned otters can’t safely hunt, avoid predators, or navigate the risks of coastal life on their own.
By expanding sea otter care to Eastern Canada, the collaboration increases the country’s overall ability to provide specialized, long-term support for rescued otters—especially those that cannot be released.
Creating space for the next rescue
The Vancouver Aquarium notes it is currently the only aquarium in Canada with a sea otter habitat, which means its capacity is limited even as rescue needs continue.
“Our aquarium’s otter habitat provides a safe and enriching home—but it also has limits,” said Mackenzie Neale, Animal Care Director at the Vancouver Aquarium. “This transfer creates much-needed space for when the next otter needs our help.”
That “next otter” is not hypothetical. VAMMR responds to more than 300 marine animal emergencies each year, including rescues of sick, injured, or orphaned animals and the disentanglement of sea lions trapped by marine debris.
A new educational opportunity in Québec
For the Aquarium du Québec, welcoming sea otters is both a conservation milestone and a major visitor experience upgrade—especially for families and students in Eastern Canada who may never have seen sea otters up close.
“The Aquarium du Quebec is thrilled to introduce sea otters to visitors in Eastern Canada,” said Nathalie Julien Boucher, director of Aquarium du Québec. She added that because the animals were rescued from the wild, the habitat will offer “a fantastic educational opportunity while continuing our conservation mission,” as part of the aquarium’s Louphoque project.
Catch them before they head east
The Vancouver Aquarium is inviting guests to visit Hardy, Mak, Quatse, and Taz before May 31. Throughout May, the four otters will be on public display during weekend (Saturday and Sunday) operating hours.
If you can’t make it to Stanley Park, the aquarium says viewers can still follow their journey on the Sea Otter Cam.
What to watch for
- Early June transfer: Four otters move from Vancouver to Québec City.
- Expanded national capacity: More space in Vancouver for future rescues; new habitat in Québec for long-term care.
- Conservation storytelling: Two aquariums amplifying public education about sea otters and coastal ecosystems.
About the rescue work behind the scenes
The Vancouver Aquarium opened in 1956 and has connected more than 50 million people to ocean life. It is accredited by major animal care and conservation organizations, and it’s also Humane Conservation Certified by American Humane.
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) operates Canada’s only dedicated marine mammal rescue facility. It is an independent registered charity that works in partnership with the Vancouver Aquarium, and donations support rescue, rehabilitation, and release efforts. Learn more at www.vammr.org.
Source: Vancouver Aquarium press release via CNW (May 7, 2026).
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