How to Swim With the Dolphins at Key Largo

Key Largo is a unique vacation experience for Florida visitors. With its own character and culture, not only is Key Largo an artistic and entertainment mecca, but it also offers plenty to do for the nature lover. Lying on the beach is fine, but if you are more adventurous and want to really experience the natural life of the area, a dolphin swim is a must. Swimming with dolphins has been described as a spiritual experience that leaves you changed. Both fun and educational, touching this friendly and intelligent mammal in a safe and therapeutic environment isn’t just enjoyable, it’s downright mystical. Key Largo has plenty of offerings for the dolphin enthusiast, and depending on what type of experience you want, dolphin swims are accessible for nearly everyone.

Instructions

1. Book a swim at Dolphins Plus. Located right off the ocean, Dolphins Plus has a good reputation for the care of dolphins and other marine animals and is dedicated to the education of visitors. Choose from a structured dolphin swim, a natural dolphin swim or a close encounter with their hearing impaired bottlenose, “Castaway.” Prices vary depending on the type of swim and the season but range from $165 to $250. Call [phone] or follow the link below to make your reservation.

2. Head out to Dolphin Cove to mix your swim with a tour of the Everglades! Located near a lagoon in the Florida Bay, you can swim or snorkel with dolphins and choose to do a structured or natural dolphin experience. If you’re not a strong swimmer, go for the Dolphin Wade encounter to meet the dolphin in waist-deep water. If you fancy becoming a dolphin trainer, sign up for the Trainer for a Day program to see what it’s really like to care and interact with these lovable mammals. Call (877) DOL-COVE. Prices range from $125 to $250.

3. Book a spiritual retreat with Mary Bontempo. A Reiki master and all round new-ager, Mary Bontempo offers a 3-day retreat and dolphin swim. More than just your everyday swim, this adventure includes a cabin stay on the beach, catered meals and channeling sessions. Check out her website for her annual trip, which will set you back about $1,500. See link below for contact information.

4. Go to Island Dolphin care with your special-needs child. Unlike most dolphin swim programs, Island Dolphin Care highlights the therapeutic nature of dolphins and the meaningful experience connecting with this mammal may have on the differently abled. A full therapeutic staff will help your child experience the event in many ways through other activities as well as the dolphin interaction, and most programs go for 5 days. This nonprofit organization asks you to meet the criteria necessary for a positive experience, so check out the link below for further information. Call them at [phone]

Tips & Warnings

• Book early to insure you get a spot on your selected day.

Resources

• Island Dolphin Care
• Mary Bontempo site
• Dolphin Cove
• Dolphin Plus