Swimming with dolphins is on the majority of holiday-makers bucket list and we can’t blame them. The exciting activity is great for kids and adults and is definitely a memorable experience while on holiday anywhere in the world; however if you don’t know what to expect it can also be nerve-wracking. We’ve got some tips and advice for swimming with dolphins in enclosures, parks or in the wild so you can have a fun and exciting experience.
Swimming with dolphins in the wild
Swimming with dolphins in the wild is very different to swimming with dolphins in enclosures. If you want to swim with them naturally we have a few tips to ensure you do it safely and still have fun.
Tip 1 – Firstly, you need to check where you can swim with them in the wild – this is only if you’re not booking through a tour company and wanting to go out by yourself. There are rules and regulations to keep these marine mammals safe so do your research. Click here for more information.
Tip 2 – Remember that the dolphins might not be in the mood to interact with you. It’s like when someone tries to interrupt you while doing something important, it’s just not needed. Swim confidently and they will approach you if they want to interact.
Tip 3 – Don’t touch the dolphins. They’re in the wild so chances are they aren’t used to being touched so just remember to swim around confidently and quickly rather than floating around. You can use scuba gear for this.
Tip 4 – Bring an underwater camera, it’ll be worth it
Swimming with dolphins in enclosures
The activity is also available in enclosures so you can swim with dolphins in Dubai and pretty much everywhere else in the world if you wish.
Tip 5 – Remember to wear sun-cream and sea-sickness tablets if you’re travelling by boat to the enclosure. It is often the sea can be quite choppy and we can imagine being sick before swimming with dolphins isn’t the ideal thing to do.
Tip 6 – Listen to the guides. They know these amazing marine mammals best so any advice and tips they give while you’re in the water should be listened to for your own safety and enjoyment, as well as the dolphins.
Tip 7 – Don’t expect anything grand. If you’re expecting the dolphins to do tricks like at Sea-World you will be disappointed. It is often that they do tricks with you, however you will be disappointed if they are not willing to do so.
Tip 8 – Stay calm and don’t panic. During your dolphin encounter they will approach you and if you begin to panic they will sense this and swim away. You want to make the most of your money and time in the water so it’s best to stay calm and enjoy the time.
Swimming with dolphins in parks
Tip 9 – Decide what parks you want to swim with dolphins in. For example, swimming with dolphins in Orlando is not a difficult activity to find. Do your research and make sure you are happy with the price and the dolphin encounter before booking.
Tip 10 – Be aware that the dolphin trainers will be in the water with you; this makes swimming with dolphins in parks great for those who aren’t as comfortable in water and for children/teenagers.
Tip 11 – Take a look at the photo and video schemes. Many parks offer photographs and videos of your dolphin encounter so take a look prior booking to see if they offer that – especially if you’re keen to get a photo!
Our very final tip for swimming with dolphins anywhere in the world is to just have fun. It could be a once in a lifetime opportunity and you don’t want to ruin it by panicking and thinking the worst. As long as you are calm, the dolphins will be calm and more likely to approach you. Get the wet-suits out!