moderate
2–3 hours
Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water and able to handle light snorkeling.
Experience the magic of swimming alongside wild dolphins in the clear, calm waters of Duck Key, Florida. This up-close marine adventure offers education, conservation, and unforgettable encounters with some of the ocean’s most fascinating animals.
If you’ve ever dreamed of entering the water and playing with dolphins, this is your chance!
Dolphin Encounter provides a high quality up-close and personal experience for each guest. Following a fun introduction into the world of dolphin training, guests enter the water to hug, rub the dolphins melon, and splash and play with our dolphins. You’ll experience the power and playfulness of this amazing mammal in waist to chest deep water, on our submerged platform.
Children 6 years and under must be accompanied by a paid adult per child. Guests with any medical restrictions, special needs or fish allergies please call us at 1-305-289-9975 to notify staff.
Our facility is in a natural lagoon. Observation areas are located in multiple locations around the lagoon. We do not guarantee all participants will be in full line of sight at all times during our programs due to the habitat.
For the dolphin’s health and safety, all items of jewelry must be removed prior to the beginning of the program and should be secured prior to arrival. It is also recommended that guests wash their hands prior to and after the experience. For liability reasons, personal cameras are not permitted on the docks or in the water, but are approved at our beach and overlook areas. The photos taken during the program are included in pricing and will be emailed to the email used to make the reservation within 48 hours. Participants should check-in at the Dolphin Connection facility 15 minutes prior to program time.
Advance Bookings Highly Recommended! This program is non refundable. Thank you.
Protect the fragile marine ecosystem with environmentally friendly sunscreen when swimming with dolphins.
Florida sun can be intense; drink plenty of water before and after your dolphin encounter.
Follow instructions during your swim to ensure safety for both you and the dolphins.
Keep valuables in waterproof pouches or leave them behind to avoid losing them in the water.
Duck Key has evolved from a small fishing community into an eco-aware recreational destination within the Florida Keys.
Tour operators here focus heavily on sustainable tourism practices to minimize environmental impact and support marine life protection.
Allows clear underwater viewing during your dolphin swim sessions.
summer specific
Protect your feet when entering rocky or sandy shorelines.
summer specific
Provides sun protection and guards against jellyfish or coral contact.
summer specific
Stay hydrated during your outdoor adventure in the Florida sun.