4 Things the Middle Class Can’t Afford at SeaWorld
Written by
Brooke Barley
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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The national median household income is $77,719, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The middle class generally consists of households with incomes between two-thirds and double that figure. That means any households currently making between $51,813 and $155,438 are considered middle class (but this can vary state to state).
Going on vacations — particularly family vacations — can cost thousands. On a middle class income, it’s hard to find extra cash to spend on a trip. Going to places like SeaWorld in San Diego can almost be cost prohibitive. Here’s a look at some of the more expensive offerings at SeaWorld that may be out of reach for the average family.
Ultimate Ticket Bundle
Currently, single-day tickets are on sale for as low as $73.99 each. This is pretty affordable, especially considering the regular price is $122.99 each. However, the “Ultimate Ticket Bundle” is not something most families will be able to afford.
The bundle includes All-Day Dining and a Quick Queue Unlimited to skip the lines. Even at the sale price, it’s not cheap at $163.99 per ticket. For a family of four, that’s over $650, without even considering the cost of travel. Regularly, the Ultimate Ticket Bundle costs $237.97 per ticket, which would bring the cost for a family of four to nearly $1,000.
Dolphin In-Water Interaction
Swimming with a dolphin is probably at the top of many kids’ (and adults’) bucket lists, but doing it at SeaWorld will cost you. Prices start at $179 per person, and can go up to $299 depending on the day. On top of ticket prices, that means a family of four would drop well over $1,000 in one day (not including the price of meals).
Ultimate VIP Tour
To live like a VIP means to spend like a VIP. SeaWorld’s Ultimate VIP Tour includes a personal VIP tour guide and an itinerary made just for the group. The cost starts at a whopping $549 per person, and can be as high as $799 depending on the day.
Trainer for a Day Tour
Starting at $399 per person, visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to train the animals of the sea. The Trainer for a Day program takes participants through a typical day of what it’s like to be a zoological specialist at the park. Though this is probably an incredibly educational experience, it’s a steep price point — especially considering it can be as high as $549 a person during the busy season.
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