Department of Tourism
Shark Ray Feeds from Divers' Hands at Newport Aquarium

NEWPORT, Ky. (Oct. 11, 2005) -- Sweet Pea, the only shark ray on display in the Western Hemisphere, is making history once again by being hand-fed during Newport Aquarium dive shows. Aquarium divers now feed Sweet Pea from inside the 385,000-gallon Surrounded by Sharks exhibit.

This is a rare opportunity for Aquarium guests to see this fascinating interaction with Sweet Pea as well as other species of sharks, stingrays, schools of fish and a loggerhead turtle. Guests can watch from the comfort and safety of their seats while divers feed Sweet Pea restaurant-grade blue crab and Florida spiny lobster.

 Divers present an underwater show that allows Aquarium guests to talk to the divers while they interact with the animals. To ensure safety, one feed diver and two safety divers participate in the new shows. The feed diver wears a yellow communication mask so that he/she can communicate with the audience. Aquarium visitors will learn about the animals in the water and have the chance to ask the divers questions about their experience.

EVERY WEEK  DIVE SHOW TIMES
Thursdays:  11:00 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 11:40 a.m.
Fridays: 11:00 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 11:40 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:20 p.m., 1:40 p.m.
Saturdays: 11:00 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 11:40 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 1:20 p.m., 1:40 p.m.
Sundays:  12:00 p.m., 12:20 p.m., 12:40 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 2:20 p.m., 2:40 p.m.

All guests through Dec. 25, 2005 will receive a coupon for use on their next visit that will provide one free admission ticket with the purchase of a ticket of equal value. Dive shows are free with purchase of Aquarium admission.

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The Kentucky Department of Tourism, an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet, exists to promote The Commonwealth as a travel destination, generate revenue and create jobs for Kentucky’s economy.