MADISON, Conn. (WPRI) — Mystic Aquarium celebrated a “landmark moment” Thursday morning by releasing four rehabilitated gray seals back into the ocean.

Sealy-Dan, Tortellini, Orecchiette and Cavatelli returned to sea at Hammonasset Beach State Park, according to the aquarium. Nearly 1,000 spectators cheered the seals on as each one triumphantly galumphed toward the water.

Mystic Aquarium believes the quadruple seal release was the largest in the Connecticut’s history.

Tortellini was found entangled in buoys and fishing line earlier this year near Block Island’s North Light, according to the aquarium. She spent several months being treated for wounds to her flippers and neck.

Orecchiette and Sealy-Dan underwent treatment for an infected wound, the aquarium said, while Cavatelli was found suffering from numerous lacerations.

The seals have since recovered from their injuries and gained significant weight during the rehabilitation process, according to the aquarium.

“We are just so incredibly excited about how this historic seal release turned out,” Mystic Aquarium’s Animal Rescue Program Manager Sarah Callan said.

The seal release was made possible thanks to Mystic Aquarium’s “Four Out the Door” campaign. The top fundraiser, Scott Duques, had the honor of releasing Tortellini by opening her kennel gate.

“We supported the seal release because we believe in helping promote safer and cleaner waterway environments along the shoreline, for people and animals alike,” Duques said.

So far, the “ Four Out the Door ” campaign has raised nearly $3,600. Anyone who wishes to donate can do so online .

The aquarium estimated that it costs $10,000 to rehabilitate and release one seal.

The fundraiser is still open, and donations are appreciated. It costs approximately $10,000 to rehabilitate and release one seal.

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