As of 2026, SeaWorld and most major accredited marine parks have permanently ended "water work" or "water-based" shows where trainers swim with orcas (killer whales). This shift began following the tragic death of trainer Dawn Brancheau in 2010 and the subsequent OSHA safety mandates that prohibited trainers from being in the water with these apex predators during public performances. Today, trainers interact with the whales only from the "slide-outs" or poolside platforms, using positive reinforcement for husbandry and behavioral demonstrations. While you may still see trainers in the water with smaller, less aggressive species like dolphins or sea lions in specific interactive programs, the era of "surfing" on orcas or performing high-diving stunts off their backs is over. These changes were part of a broader industry move toward more educational, naturalistic presentations, coinciding with the end of orca breeding programs at SeaWorld, making the current residents the last generation in captivity.