SeaWorld unveiled several new attractions Wednesday, to replace the "Shamu" show that ended in January after being lambasted by critics.
Two of the park's new attractions for 2017 include the Ocean Explorer and the Orca Encounter which opened around 10:30 a.m.
About a dozen sea-themed perfomers, bubble machines and a 27-foot-tall eel puppet celebrated the grand opening at the park.
More than 160 first graders from Flying Hills and Valencia Park Elementary Schools were at the park to try out the new rides. They were among the first youngsters to explore the new three-acre realm.
An ocean-themed shroud was lifted to reveal the Ocean Explorer. The new attraction transforms riders into the role of the scientist by taking passengers through an underwater world.
This new section of rides is part of SeaWorld's development away from the Shamu Show, which ended because of the negative publicity and low attendance rates.
Brian Morrow, Vice President of Theme Park Development, told NBC 7 the new rides show they have listened to the public's feedback.
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"We listened to our guests and they told us what they wanted, and we have now done all that," said Morrow. "And so, Orca Encounter is sort of the capstone of completing that mission, and now we're moving and continuing to evolve forward."
The new rides focus on education and use technology as a way to connect with a younger demographic, said park officials.
Most of the new rides emphasize interactive technology, marking a departure from the performance-based shows that used to be associated with SeaWorld.
Park officials say SeaWorld is making the biggest investment here in San Diego. Later, this park may be used as the prototype in Florida and Texas.
A third attraction, Electric Ocean, will debut on June 17.
