SeaWorld Reaches $1.5 Million Settlement Over Automatic Membership Renewal Controversy

A Landmark Settlement Offers Relief to California Annual Pass Holders

SeaWorld has agreed to a $1.5 million settlement following a class action lawsuit accusing the park of failing to properly notify customers about automatic renewal of their annual passes. The settlement addresses concerns raised by California residents who purchased annual passes and later found themselves charged for renewals without clear, upfront warnings.

Background of the Lawsuit and Key Allegations

The lawsuit was initiated by two San Diego residents who bought annual passes through SeaWorld’s official website. They claimed the website did not clearly disclose that their passes would automatically renew after one year. Additionally, no reminders were provided before the renewal charges were applied. The plaintiffs also alleged that canceling these renewals was made unnecessarily difficult.

SeaWorld has agreed to the settlement without admitting any wrongdoing. However, the settlement still awaits final court approval, with a hearing scheduled for August 15, 2025, in San Diego Superior Court.

Who Is Eligible for Compensation

The settlement covers a specific group of annual pass holders. To be part of the settlement class, individuals must meet the following criteria:

Have a California residential or billing address on file with SeaWorld.

Purchased one or more annual passes to SeaWorld San Diego through the official website or mobile app on or after February 28, 2019.

Experienced automatic renewal of their annual pass on or before February 28, 2025.

Did not receive a refund for the first automatic renewal charge.

How to Participate and What You Need to Know

Eligible members of the settlement class can receive a pro rata cash payment. No proof of purchase is required to file a claim, simplifying the process for many affected pass holders. The deadline to file a claim is July 22, 2025.

Those who do not wish to participate can choose to opt out by the same deadline but will forfeit any cash payment. Alternatively, members can file objections to the settlement by July 31, 2025, and even attend the court’s fairness hearing if they wish to voice concerns or support.

What This Means for SeaWorld Pass Holders

This settlement reflects increasing scrutiny of automatic renewal policies in the consumer marketplace. For SeaWorld guests, it underscores the importance of transparency and fair notification regarding membership renewals. The new agreement aims to compensate those who were unknowingly charged and provide a framework for clearer communication in the future.

What Comes Next

The settlement requires court approval, after which compensation will be distributed to qualified members. Patience is encouraged as legal proceedings and potential appeals could extend the timeline before payments are made.

SeaWorld pass holders impacted by this issue are encouraged to review the official settlement information carefully to understand their rights and options.

This settlement highlights a growing trend where companies are held accountable for transparent billing practices, ensuring customers are fully informed about their memberships and renewal policies. As SeaWorld moves forward, this case sets a precedent for how automatic renewals should be managed with fairness and clarity.