Dining questions

[mike&amy1508]

HI! Hoping someone can answer my questions:

How far ahead do you need to book reservations to dine with Shamu in January?

If the park closes at 6:00, when would Sharks Underwater Grill close?

Thanks!

 

[DTop]

You're asking about January '08?

 

[mike&amy1508]

Yes, we will be in Orlando on our honeymoon Jan 6-19, 2008.

Just wondered how far ahead to book (I know we don't need to do this for quite a while yet, but we have a lot to do in a year, so just want to get our timelines straight). And also wondered when Sharks would close.

 

[DTop]

I've been told that you can book up to a year in advance but I don't think it's really necessary.
The Shark's Underwater Grill sometimes has odd hours. I've noticed that it often closes an hour before park closing, or it fills up long before closing time, or it sometimes gets booked by a private group. There's also the problem that they don't seem to allow any advanced booking so you need to show up at the actual Grill (not the counter at the front of the park) to book your reservation for later that day.
"Dine with Shamu" has changed its name to "Back Stage at Believe" but you can book that up to a year ahead too. January is not the busy season so I wouldn't imagine you'd need to book that any more than a week ahead. In fact, you could probably do it a day or two before or even the same day for that matter without a problem.
To tell you the truth, I think the Makahiki Luau is a better choice unless you really have a longing to eat at 4:00pm near the Orca pool. The Luau happens at 6:30pm, is indoors(it can be a bit cold in January), has good food and is a nice Hawaiian/Polynesian show.

 

[highlander447]

Hi for Sharks Grill if u have a SW passport then u can book in advance if that helps

 

[DTop]

Hi for Sharks Grill if u have a SW passport then u can book in advance if that helps

Oh ya? How do you go about doing that?

 

[highlander447]

Oh ya? How do you go about doing that?

Hi call (407) 351-3600 to advance book with passport, used this twice last year, it is listed as a benefit on the SW passport site

Sharks Underwater Grill
Enjoy lunch or dinner just inches away from more than 50 sharks. Upscale, full-service restaurant -- the finest of foods in a casual atmosphere. "Floribbean-style" menu that blends Caribbean and Florida fare. Main courses include fresh seafood and a selection of prime beef and chicken entrees. Also menus for teens and children. Themed cocktails and delectable desserts top off any meal. Just for Passport Members! Platinum, Gold and Silver Passport members who want to enjoy their special occasion (birthday, anniversary, graduation, etc.) at Sharks Underwater Grill can call (407) 351-3600 and speak with a restaurant host/hostess to make an advance priority seating. Sharks Underwater Grill is open daily from 11 a.m. until park closing.

hope this helps

 

[DTop]

I will try that next time. I have been told more than once that you have to be at the Grille itself in order to make reservations even if you do have a season pass. Have you tried to make reservations for another day or is this only for same day reservations?

 

[highlander447]

Hi I called a few days before in July, at first they said no reservations, but when I said I has a passport they took the booking and they called back day before to confirm the reservation