You may have some questions about your dolphin swim program in the Florida Keys. Here is a list of the most common ones…
Does your program go on Rain or Shine?
Yes, this program goes on Rain or Shine. The dolphin swim and shows, will go on most of the time. If there is thunder, there might be a delay before the program resumes again.
Must I know how to swim to participate?
You should be comfortable in the water. The dolphin swim takes place in a 15 to 20 foot deep in a natural salt water lagoon.
What does it mean to be an Observer?
An Observer is a Participant’s friend or family member. Observers participate in all aspects of the program minus the in-water interaction. During the interaction you can cheer on the Participants and take photos. The Observers stay in the stands and have no contact with the dolphins. The fee includes complimentary admission to the park, so you can see the rest of the shows and exhibits, as well. Observers under 10 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
What should I bring?
A bathing suit or swimming attire is required. You can rely on us to provide the following: Showers, lockers(refundable deposit), and wetsuits. Wetsuits can be rented. All jewelry must be removed prior to entering the water.
What about taking photographs with the Dolphins during my session?
Yes, there are professional staff photographers taking photographs or video of you and your dolphin session. You can purchase these photographs after your session. Prices ranges from $40 and up, depending on how many photographs you purchase. You can not take a regular camera into the water with you during your dolphin session. If you do have a family or a friend come with you as an observer, they can take photographs of you during your session. Hint: If you don’t have an observer in your group, you might ask another observer from another group to take a few photographs with your camera..
What kind of pools do the animals live in at the Dolphin facility?
The animals live in natural salt-water lagoons. The water is pumped in from the Atlantic Ocean.
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How big is the lagoon?
The lagoon is three acres in size with an average depth of 15 to 20 feet. The rest of the property is about 17 acres in size and rich with tropical foliage and orchids.
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Do you have a restaurant on the property?
A snack bar/grill is available and serves a variety of delicious foods at the dolphin facility.
Can I bring my own masks fins and snorkels?
Yes you can to use during your dolphin program and private facility beach. Water shoes may be worn instead of fins for parts of the ray and sea lion swim, but we do not provide these so bring your own.
Do we have to pay extra entrance and parking fees?
No. There are no extra entrance or parking fees when snorkeling or the dolphin program.
Can handicapped individuals participate?
While this dolphin program does accept handicapped individuals, this program is not a Dolphin Therapy session. This program is primarily recreational Florida Keys dolphin programs. Those interested in a therapy program should consider other locations in the Florida Keys. Although accommodations for handicapped individuals can be arranged, they will not receive special treatments such as extended time or more interactions. If a handicapped individual is to participate, this circumstance will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
Are glasses/contacts permitted in the water?
Contact lenses can be worn. Prescription glasses with clear lenses will be permitted only if they are needed but they cannot be removed at anytime (including for pictures) during the session. Glasses with dark lenses are not permitted unless the individual is sensitive to sunlight, in which case a doctor’s letter will need to be necessary.
