SeaWorld temporarily lays off more than 90% of its employees

SeaWorld is placing more than 90 percent of its workforce on furlough as its parks remain closed during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Orlando-based theme park chain made the announcement in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

“The furloughed employees will not receive compensation from the Company during the furlough period after March 31, 2020; however, subject to local regulations, these employees will be eligible for unemployment benefits,” the filing said. “The furlough period is uncertain at this time due to the temporary park closures and will be reassessed as business conditions dictate. The Company looks forward to welcoming back its ambassadors and guests when it is safe to open again.”

Some part-time SeaWorld employees have not been paid since the coronavirus closure began on March 16, according to an earlier report from The Orlando Sentinel.

In a separate post on its website, SeaWorld said animal care employees “will continue to look after the health and welfare of the animals in our care.”

SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay had originally said they would be closed through the end of March. Now, there’s no timetable for reopening.

“We are continuing to monitor this evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation closely and coordinating with public health officials,” SeaWorld said. “We look forward to welcoming our valued guests back to our parks soon.”

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