‘Undersea Explorer’ VR attraction opens in Las Vegas

Guests can get an up-close and personal look at the mysterious creatures of the deep with “Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality Theater,” a new attraction at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The experiences, created by Immotion’s Emmy Award-winning documentary team, offers live-action educational and adventurous content guided by marine biologists and wildlife experts. “Undersea Explorer” also features 360-degree stereoscopic VR with dynamic motion seating.

As part of this experience, guests can enjoy various experiences, including:

• “Shark Dive” – Swim with marine biologist Matthew Smukall and Shark Whisperer Mike Dormellas as they dive among tiger sharks and hammerheads. This dive features the world’s first VR POV Shark Cam from a camera mounted on a shark’s dorsal fin.
• “Swimming with Humpbacks” – Follow marine biologist/cameraman Jeff Hester as he sets out to learn about the behavior of mother humpback whales and their calves. Track a newborn and its mom undersea and see how the behavior of the mother evolves as the calf matures.
• Take a selfie in the hyper-realistic shark cage, learn about the anatomy of the humpback whale, track the real-time movement of sharks around the world, and learn the secrets of the humpback whale songs – all in the pre-show area.

“At a time when getting out of the house feels like a luxury, it’s a thrill to open our doors and let the public experience ‘Undersea Explorer,’” said Rod Findley, group commercial director of Immotion. “We’ve created a safe, educational and adventurous way to explore underwater wildlife and hope that guests become passionate about oceanic conservation through this unique VR experience.”

As for safety, the “Undersea Explorer” pre-show activities and lobby abide by the six-foot physical distancing protocols. Theater seats are cleaned and VR goggles are sanitized in a UV light machine after each viewing, and hand-sanitizing stations are available throughout the venue.

“Undersea Explorer” is included in admission to Shark Reef Aquarium, which is open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. To manage capacity, timed tickets can be purchased online and advance reservations are recommended. Guests must be age 5 or older to take part in the VR experience.