SeaWorld Orlando’s parent company, United Parks & Resorts, reported declines in attendance, revenue and net income for its most recent fiscal year, which ended in December.
“FY2025 results were below expectations,” CEO Mark Swanson said Thursday. “Although the consumer environment was uneven and our results were affected by negative trends in international tourism and unstable weather during certain peak visit periods, we could have achieved a better result, particularly on the cost side of the income statement.”
The company’s attendance decreased by 1.8% to approximately 21.2 million people. The report did not provide a breakdown of attendance for the 13 individual parks, which also include Aquatica Water Park, Discovery Cove Day Resort and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Theme Park.
Total revenue for the year was $1.7 billion, down 3.6% from 2024, and net income was $168.4 million, down 26%.
On a brighter note, per capita spending in the parks increased by 1%, including a 2.1% increase in the fourth quarter, which set a company record, according to the report.
“Guests continue to respond positively to our service and spend their money when visiting our parks,” Swanson said.
He said the company had taken steps to improve its performance.
“We took decisive action to address suboptimal cost management and updated and focused our plans and investments for 2026 to drive attendance and guest spending across the park,” Swanson said. This includes new rides and attractions, an expanded concert lineup and enhanced marketing plans, he said.
IAAPA Expo: SeaWorld debuts SEAQuest vehicle
In 2026, SeaWorld Orlando will open the underwater dark ride SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will introduce Lion & Hyena Ridge, an animal habitat with five young lions and two hyenas. Swanson said some of this year’s enhancements to SeaWorld Orlando have yet to be announced, and reservations for Discovery Cove are increasing for the rest of the year.
“I really think the lifeblood of giving people a reason to come is having new attractions and events and shows,” Swanson said on a conference call with market analysts.
He also reiterated that last year’s opening of Epic Universe Theme Park was a positive development for the Central Florida market.
“We invest in a market that continues to attract high-quality investments from others,” he said. “We think it benefits everyone and we will continue to do our part to keep people coming to our parks while they are here.”
dbevil@orlandosentinel.com
