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What happened to the Disneyland Mermaids?

Disney ended this feature in 1967 and replaced them with animatronic creations after several mermaid performers reported health concerns, related to the submarines' diesel exhaust fumes and the highly chlorinated water.



The "Live Mermaids" of Disneyland were a short-lived but legendary feature of the Submarine Voyage lagoon, appearing only during the summers of 1959, 1965, 1966, and 1967. These young women would swim in the water, performing synchronized routines and waving to guests peering through the portholes of the passing submarines. While they were a massive hit with visitors, the program was discontinued for a variety of practical and health-related reasons. The "mermaids" frequently suffered from skin irritation and hair discoloration due to the high levels of chlorine required to keep the lagoon water clear for the submarines. Additionally, the diesel fumes from the original sub fleet were unpleasant for the swimmers, and some adventurous (and unruly) male guests would occasionally jump into the water to "join" them, creating a major security and safety liability. There was also a notable "wardrobe malfunction" incident during a high-profile press event that caused a bit of an internal scandal. Today, the mermaids have been replaced by static figures and digital projections in the "Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage" reimagining, but they remain a cherished "kitsch" chapter in the history of vintage Disneyland park operations.

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