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Dive Into the Dolphin Life Encounter: An Unforgettable Interactive Adventure in Key Largo - Key Largo

Dive Into the Dolphin Life Encounter: An Unforgettable Interactive Adventure in Key Largo

Key Largomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be comfortable standing in waist-deep water and able to swim or float in open water if choosing the deeper swim option.

Overview

Discover the Dolphin Life Encounter in Key Largo—a safe, playful way to connect with dolphins in waist-deep waters. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this experience offers a unique glimpse into graceful marine intelligence against the stunning Florida Keys backdrop.

Key Largo, Florida

Dolphin Life Encounter

price per person | Briefing 20-30 min. | Hybrid Interaction!

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Adventure Photos

Dolphin Life Encounter photo 1

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of interacting with dolphins in a unique way! The Dolphin Life Encounter offers a waist-deep platform for playful interactions and the option to dive deeper for exciting behaviors. Perfect for families and those easing into the water, this unforgettable adventure allows you to connect with these magnificent creatures at your own pace.

Wade in or dive deeper. Your dolphin adventure, your way!

Want the thrill of an in-water dolphin experience but not quite ready for a full deep-water swim? The Dolphin Life Encounter is your sweet spot. 

You'll hang out with the dolphins by standing on a submerged platform, waist-deep in the water, where you'll get hands on with rubs, instagram-worthy moments, and delivering hand signals that the dolphins respond playfully to. 

If you're feeling adventurous (and meet the age requirements), you can step off the platform into the deep water for exciting, high-energy behaviors like the dorsal tow or foot push. Not ready for that? No problem. You'll still complete the same number of dolphin behaviors as everyone else - just from the comfort of the platform. 

It's a great choice for families with kids of different ages, guests who prefer to ease into the water, or anyone looking for a flexible way to experience dolphins up close. 

At-A-Glance Who: Ages 3+ with an adult, or 10+ to participate on your own  Deep-water portion available for guests 5+ only  Price: $225 Per Person | Includes admission, tour, photos, t-shirt, and tax 

Swimming Ability: Guests wishing to do the deep-water portion of the program must be comfortable swimming and treading in deep water while interacting with large dolphins. Children 36" tall or less must have a paying adult able to hold them on their hip during program.

This program isn't timed - instead is is based on completing a set number of immersive behaviors at a pace that works for you and the dolphins. In-water time can vary, but plan for 1.5-2 hours total time at Dolphin Life from arrival to departure. That includes check-in, a behind-the-scenes tour, safety briefing, your in-water adventure, and time to explore the facility and enjoy the dolphin life.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early to Catch the Briefing

Show up 20-30 minutes prior to your encounter to participate in the essential safety and behavior briefing.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect yourself and the marine environment by using eco-friendly sunscreen to prevent harm to coral reefs.

Stay Hydrated Before and After

Florida’s sun and saltwater can be dehydrating; drink plenty of water before and after your swim.

Follow Guides’ Instructions Closely

To ensure a safe and respectful interaction with dolphins, always listen carefully and follow all staff directions.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Tropical reef fish such as parrotfish

History

Key Largo is part of the Florida Keys, designated a National Marine Sanctuary in 1990 to protect its significant coral reef ecosystem.

Conservation

This program supports marine conservation by educating participants on responsible wildlife interaction and promoting reef-safe practices.

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Adventure Hotspots in Key Largo

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Swimsuit

Essential

Comfortable swimwear is necessary for interacting in water and enjoying the experience fully.

summer specific

Water Shoes

Protect your feet on the platform and shallow ocean floor from rough surfaces or coral.

summer specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protect both skin and ocean life by applying eco-friendly sunscreen before your encounter.

summer specific

Towel

Essential

Bring a towel to dry off comfortably after the water interaction.