Although dolphins are plentiful along Florida's southwestern coast, don't plan to hop in the water for a swim with the seemingly friendly mammals. It is actually illegal to swim with dolphins unless you do it through a licensed outfit. Boaters are discouraged from approaching dolphins and are not allowed to feed them at sea. Interestingly, some of the premiere dolphin study and swim organizations are well north and inland. For true dolphin swims in southern Florida, you'll need to head to the Keys.
Choose a company. The Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key, Theater of the Sea in Islamorada and Dolphins Plus in Key Largo specialize in dolphin and sea life interaction. Additionally, private resorts such as Hawks Cay in Duck Key offer on-site dolphin swim programs. Hawks Cay allows guests to swim with their dolphin family in a private saltwater lagoon.
Note the restrictions. Before you head to the dolphin center, confirm that you meet its minimal requirements. Each facility has its own criteria, which include age and height restrictions, level of swimming ability and overall health considerations. Pregnant guests are prohibited from the swims, as is anyone appearing to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Make a reservation. Call the appropriate center and make a reservation before you go. Outfits offer a variety of packages and prices. Some allow hands-on interaction and training sessions, while others allow you only to be in the water with the mammals. There are no-refund restrictions if you do not cancel soon enough, so ask in advance what the establishment's policy is.
Choose a pricing structure and pay by credit card. Prices vary depending on the package and outfit. The Theater of the Seas program includes a 20-minute orientation and 20- to 30-minute swim for $175 per person. The Dolphin Research Center has a full-day program for $189 that includes admission to the facility and a dolphin swim. Its deep-water dolphin encounter even allows participants to go for a ride while hanging on to the dorsal fin of a dolphin. Prices listed are as of 2010.
Bring a translator. If you or anyone in your party cannot understand English, you must bring a translator, as all instructions are given in English.
Go to the facility with your confirmation number. Arrive at least a half-hour before your reservation time, and plan to spend the day at the facility, as there are many educational and interactive programs on site.
