Wasabi arrives at uShaka Marine World's Sea World
In 1996 a young 300g Green turtle found herself stranded on the beach in Muizenburg in the Cape â a very long way from home. The young turtle was taken to Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town where staff nursed her back to health but despite all efforts her front flipper remained a concern, especially during the icy winter months.
After discussion with various role-players it was decided that Wasabi would be better suited to the warmer waters of KZN and that the chronic arthritis she suffered in her right flipper would not be felt as severely in Durban where the water is more than 10 degrees warmer. Â
On 14th July 2010 she boarded a plane from Cape Town to Durban and to the amazement of the other passengers took her seat amongst them! She landed safely and was promptly whisked away to Sea World where staff eagerly awaited her arrival.
Blood tests were done, her weight and length measured, swim tests and a few other routine observations made before she settled down for the night. Wasabi is doing well in the quarantine section of Sea World and it is planned that within the next few months she will join the other turtles in the Aquarium.
Sea World boasts an impressive Dolphin Stadium, seating over 1 200 spectators, who are thrilled and delighted with three dolphins show presentations each day. Separate interactive tanks, known as the Dolphin Lagoon, allow up close and personal encounters with these amazing creatures. Alongside the Dolphin Stadium, is the Seal Stadium, host of fun-filled seal shows, as well as the Penguin rockery, home to over 63 African Penguins.
uShaka Sea World is also home to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research and its world-famous Oceanographic Research Institute, playing an important role in marine conservation. Special âbehind the scenesâ tours are available - you will be fascinated by the large pumps and reticulations systems used to feed the salt water displays, as well as uShaka Sea Worldâs rehabilitation programme for injured marine life.
The anchor of Sea World is the majestic âPhantom Shipâ designed as a re-creation of an old 1920âs Cargo Ship, wrecked on the Island of Sea World, and is host to the most sought after dining experience in Durban, The Cargo Hold and The Upper Deck Restaurants.
