Credit: DisneyA fan-favorite attraction has returned to Disney World.
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The Disney theme parks have changed tremendously over the last decade, though some of the biggest changes can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. Disney was forced to adapt quickly to the new world, resulting in cutbacks on attractions and experiences.
Projects were also scaled back or canceled entirely, but in the years since, both Disney World and Disneyland have slowly returned to more normal operations. The latest example of this is the return of diver lockout demonstrations at EPCOT.
Prior to March 2020, these mini-events used to happen every 30 minutes in SeaBase Alpha, but were suspended following the closure of Walt Disney World due to the outbreak of COVID-19. During the demonstrations, guests will witness a real diver enter the lock-out chamber, a tall tube attached to the aquarium. The diver enters the chamber, which fills with water.
Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science, and Environment, Dr. Mark Penning, announced the return of these diving demonstrations on Instagram, sharing a video of a practice run.
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The diving experience officially returns to EPCOT today, July 22, 2025, marking an exciting new chapter for the park.
With its 5.7 million-gallon tank, The Seas is one of the largest aquariums in the country. In total, 8,500 animals call the Seas home, ranging from small fish to large manatees. The Seas also features a dark ride based on Pixar’s Finding Nemo called The Seas with Nemo & Friends, which takes riders through the events of the original film.
What makes the ride so unique is that it blends sets and characters with the actual aquarium. As guests pass by various exhibits with real animals, they will see Nemo, Dory, and Marlin inside the tanks, too.
Today also marks the reopening of Test Track. The thrill ride closed in 2024 for its second major renovation. The original version of Test Track opened in 1999. The ride eventually closed for a remodel in 2012, reopening the same year. In 2023, Disney World announced that it would once again be going to the drawing board for Test Track.
The updated version of the attraction features new music, scenes, and a different story, making it a can’t-miss experience for those visiting this summer.
Are you excited about the return of diving demonstrations at EPCOT?