SeaWorld Orlando offers plenty of cost-saving deals for the holidays

Like the other big theme parks in Central Florida, SeaWorld Orlando is a busy place during the holidays. And not only does the marine park have plenty of special experiences for guests, it also offers quite a few money-saving deals for visitors and residents alike during this holiday season.

** Starting with SeaWorld admission, guests can save a little green when they go to see the wonders of the blue oceans at the park. SeaWorld’s 2014 FunCard is on sale now and it’s valid for the remainder of 2013 and all of next year — with no blackout dates. So, adults pay $92 plus tax and kids ages 3 to 9 pay $87 plus tax for the holidays and an entire year of general admission.

Or, if you’re going for just one day, you might want to take advantage of the weekday rate of $50 for a single ticket. This offer is good through Dec. 20. SeaWorld pass members also can save 50 percent off a single day’s admission for up to six guests. That offer is good through Dec. 25 and is not limited to weekdays.

** In addition to the all the amazing animal shows, interactions and attractions, guests who visit SeaWorld on select days through Dec. 31 also can experience SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration at no additional charge. This is a wonderful value, especially when you consider that other area theme parks require separate tickets for holiday events.

SeaWorld guests can choose from a number of moving shows, including Shamu Christmas Miracles; the always funny Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas; O Wonderous Night, The Christmas Story told through the eyes of live animals; Winter Wonderland on Ice, an ice skating extravaganza; and Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Finale. Kids won’t want to miss The Polar Express Experience, and young kids will enjoy Elmo’s Christmas Wish. Plus, the Sea of Trees is a beautiful attraction to take in while sipping hot chocolate on those cooler nights in December. (Please check back for more details about this year’s events.)

** Aquatica is offering significant savings on a single day’s admission during December. By reserving a specific date online, guests can pay just $19 for a day of fun at the water park. (Regular admission price is $56 for adults and $51 for ages 3 to 9.) Each guest can purchase up to six tickets. Sure, the weather is a bit chillier this month, but the water is always heated to 82 degrees. My family and I have been to Aquatica in January and had a great time without spending our day huddled under beach towels. Florida residents also have a limited-time offer that allows them to purchase an Aquatica annual pass using the monthly payment program.

** Finally, tonight at 12:01 a.m. ET — technically, that’s Friday — SeaWorld Orlando will announce its own version of holiday shopping deals on “Blue Friday.” The offers will be for some of the “most exclusive park experiences,” SeaWorld says, and can be purchased online through 11:59 p.m. ET on Dec. 2 (Cyber Monday). To take advantage of the deals, shoppers can follow SeaWorld on Facebook and Twitter or sign up for email.

Follow @Kristin_B_Ford