Nakai was conceived through artificial insemination. His mother and father never met, and live across the country from each other. His mother Kasatka was pregnant for 18 months, one month longer than expected, but still within the average term of pregnancy. She gave birth at 8:50 PM, in Shamu Stadium. Nakai was born head-first, only the second whale at Sea World to do so.

After birth, Nakai immediately swam strongly. He appeared perfectly healthy, and continued to do thrive. He was introduced to the other Sea World whales easily. He seemed to enjoy participating in shows, and swimming away from his mother for short times. He began eating fish at only a few months old, and has already learned to focus on a target.

On January 4, 2002, Nakai was officially given his name. Though other names were considered, Sea World had seemed to prefer Nakai, even calling him that before a name was slected. The other names considered were: Makai, Inzio, Shgen-doo, and TK.