Rufus was played by two pelicans, Ricky and Lucy. You can visit them at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
The SEA Semester, to which Sawyer went, actually exists.
Mandy the dolphin was played by the aquarium's third dolphin, Nicholas.
Originally, the aquarium rescued Hope before Panama died. They were paired together, but when Panama died, Winter was paired with Hope.
Mavis the turtle was played by Harold, a resident green sea turtle at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.