The three dolphin program tiers
Dolphin Encounter (30 min, $99): you stand on a submerged platform in waist deep water. Trainer brings the dolphin to you for a handshake, a kiss and photos. No swimming required. Best for kids 6 to 9 and seniors.
Dolphin Swim Adventure (50 min, $159): includes the encounter activities plus deeper water swim with the dolphin, dorsal tow and side hug. You need to be a comfortable swimmer (no laps required, just float).
Royal Swim (1 hour, $199): the full experience. Includes everything in the Swim plus the famous foot push (dolphin pushes you across the pool by your feet), belly ride and the high speed dorsal fin tow.
Programs compared
| Program | Price USD | Duration | Min age | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encounter | $99 | 30 min | 6 | Handshake, kiss |
| Swim Adventure | $159 | 50 min | 8 | Dorsal tow |
| Royal Swim | $199 | 1 hour | 8 | Foot push, belly ride |
What to know before you book
- Time slots are 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm, book the slot that matches your park arrival time
- Park admission is included in all dolphin programs, no double-paying
- Photos and video sold separately: $40 USD digital pack, $89 hard prints. Personal cameras not allowed in the pool
- No glasses, contact lenses, jewelry or sunscreen in the dolphin pool, lockers are free
- Pregnant guests, recent surgery, severe back issues: cannot do swim or royal swim
Ethics of dolphin programs
Dolphin Discovery operates 6 facilities across the Caribbean and Mexico. They are AMMPA accredited and follow USDA standards on enclosure size, food quality and trainer ratios. Animal welfare groups (World Animal Protection, In Defense of Animals) argue that all captive cetacean programs cause stress regardless of accreditation. The decision is personal. If you choose to participate, the experience is a memorable one.
Ready to swim with dolphins at Chankanaab?
Book your dolphin program with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Preguntas frecuentes
Dolphin Encounter is $99 (30 min, no swim, includes park admission). Dolphin Swim is $159 (50 min interactive). Royal Swim is $199 (1 hour with foot push and dorsal ride). All prices in USD.
Encounter: age 6, accompanied by paying adult under 12. Swim: age 8. Royal Swim: age 8 with swim ability. Pregnant guests cannot participate in swim or royal swim.
Programs are operated by Dolphin Discovery, the largest dolphin facility chain in the Caribbean and accredited by AMMPA (Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums). Some animal welfare groups oppose all captive dolphin programs.
