Marineland Under New Management: Why 2026 Is the Year to Visit (From John the Dolphin Expert)
If you’re planning a Spring Break, summer vacation, or a quick family getaway to St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, or Jacksonville Beach, I’ve got big news: Marineland is under new ownership and management—and the future looks bright. I’ve been in this industry for over 30 years, I visit these facilities myself, and I just sat down with longtime Marineland leader Tom Sackmaster to talk about what changed, what’s coming, and how to plan the perfect dolphin day.
Tom called it what many locals are calling it too: a miracle. Here’s why. During the bankruptcy auction process, there was a pivotal moment when the banks had already closed for the day. The group that wanted to preserve Marineland as a public-facing marine attraction needed a little more time to secure funds. The judge granted that extra time, and that window allowed the preservation-minded team to finalize the money and win the bid—keeping Marineland open for families, schools, and ocean-lovers rather than turning it into something else.
That decision didn’t just save a historic oceanarium; it protected the guest experiences, the education mission, and the jobs of the people who pour their hearts into caring for the animals and hosting visitors.
The new ownership includes private investors and a name you probably recognize if you’ve visited Marineland in the past: Felicia Cook, the former General Manager who is now back as the new GM—and one of the new owners. That continuity matters. She knows the team, the property, the animals, and the community. It means you’ll see stability and steady improvements instead of a hard reset.
In my world, new ownership can go one of two ways: either “cut and change everything” or “invest and improve what already works.” From my conversations, this group is firmly in the second camp—preserve what makes Marineland special and upgrade the guest experience step by step.
Tom told me the new chapter brings a strong return to research and education—for the public, for school groups, and for learning institutions that partner with marine facilities. Expect more hands-on learning, clearer storytelling around animal care, and opportunities to see training techniques and enrichment in ways that are accessible and memorable for kids and adults alike.
As someone who’s watched families connect with dolphins for decades, I’m thrilled about this emphasis. The more guests understand why and how we care for animals, the more meaningful the experience becomes—and the better ocean stewards we raise for the long term.
Whether you’re a confident swimmer or you want something gentler for younger kids, Marineland’s lineup covers it. Here’s the quick guide I give my own clients:
Pro Tip: When you’re traveling with kids, check age/height requirements and adult-to-child ratios during booking. It’ll save headaches at check-in and help you pick the right program for everyone.
If you’re based in or visiting Orlando, Jacksonville, or Daytona, Marineland fits beautifully into a beach-plus-dolphins day:
With Felicia Cook at the helm and the new owners invested in upgrades, here’s what to expect as 2026 rolls out:
I’ll keep you updated on timelines, but the direction is clear: preserve the heart of Marineland while modernizing the guest experience.
I’ve put together a detailed video walkthrough of what’s new and how to plan your visit. To unlock 10% off, watch the video and grab the code I share on screen:
👉 Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQAhqhXRdH0
(Yes, you actually have to watch it—the code is inside the video. 😉)
When you’re ready to go, book through my site so you get the right program fit and up-to-date guidance:
DolphinWorld.com → St Augustine
Marineland’s story isn’t just about surviving a bankruptcy auction—it’s about a community choosing education, animal care, and access for families. With Felicia Cook returning as GM and a team committed to research, training excellence, and steady upgrades, 2026 is the perfect time to (re)discover this historic oceanarium.
If you’re doing Spring Break, summer vacation, or a weekend family trip, build a day around Marineland—free parking, public beach access, and three dolphin programs to choose from. Then tell me how it went. I’ll be around the park, camera in hand, still doing what I’ve done for decades: helping families have the dolphin day they’ll talk about for years.
See you in St. Augustine—
John, The Dolphin Expert
About the Author: John McNamara
John McNamara isn’t just a travel operator; he’s a pioneer in the marine mammal interaction industry. As the founder and owner of Dolphin World and , John has spent over 30 years connecting families, couples, and adventurers with life-changing aquatic experiences. When you book with John, you aren’t just getting a ticket—you’re getting 30+ years of expertise and a commitment to making your dream experience a reality.
