SeaWorld reports $67 million loss in revenue compared to first quarter last year after coronavirus shut down

ORLANDO, Fla. — SeaWorld reported a $67 million loss in revenue in the first quarter of 2020 compared to the same quarter last year after having to shut down their theme parks in mid-March.

Before the closures, the company said it was off to a strong start in 2020 with record-setting attendance and revenue through the first two months of the year.

But factoring in the closure, SeaWorld officials said attendance to the parks decreased by 1 million guests in 2020 compared to the first quarter of 2019.

READ: After furloughing 90% of employees, SeaWorld interim CEO provides update on how long park could sustain closure

“While the world is experiencing an unprecedented global health crisis that has impacted nearly everyone on the planet, we are confident in the resiliency of our business, our ability to weather this crisis and that we will emerge an even stronger company,” said Marc Swanson, interim chief executive officer of SeaWorld Entertainment Inc., in a news release.

But in Orlando, the company painted a picture of advantage over other parks because of the number of visitors who drive to Central Florida.

“We estimate approximately 85% of our visitation comes from within driving distance from our parks, even in Orlando where SeaWorld has been voted Orlando’s best theme park and Aquatica has been voted Orlando’s best waterpark, the majority of our visitation comes from within driving distance,” he said.

In an interview with Channel 9 investigative reporter Daralene Jones last month, Swanson said the park will be able to survive even if it had to remain closed into early 2021.

In March, the park furloughed 90% of its staff due to the pandemic.

VIDEO: SeaWorld CEO talks to WFTV about surviving the coronavirus crisis WFTV reporter Daralene Jones learned the park thinks it can operate as is until next year.

© 2020 Cox Media Group