easy
30 minutes
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages
Discover a unique dockside dolphin encounter in Duck Key, Florida, perfect for families seeking safe, dry, and intimate interactions with these remarkable marine mammals. Learn why this experience stands apart in the Florida Keys.
Experience the joy of interacting with friendly dolphins in a unique dockside setting, perfect for families with young children. Enjoy a 30-minute session of touching and playing with these amazing creatures, all while staying dry. Limited to small groups, this unforgettable encounter promises fun and lasting memories for all ages.
For families with young children that don’t mind getting splashed, our friendly dolphins will meet you dockside. Enjoy all the fun with no swimming required.
Following a fun introduction into the world of dolphin training, Dockside Dolphins allows you to touch, play and interact with our animals from our dry training docks. Groups are limited to no more than 12 participants per dolphin. People of all ages may participate in this program.
Children 5 years and under must be accompanied by a paid adult. 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.
Small group sizes ensure a more personal and safe dolphin encounter experience.
Arrive 15 minutes before your session to get briefed and maximize your 30-minute interaction.
Capture your moments but avoid flash photography to keep the dolphins comfortable.
Protect your skin and marine life by using reef-safe sunscreen before the encounter.
Duck Key became a favored spot for fishing and small-scale agriculture before its modern recreational development in the mid-20th century.
The operation follows strict guidelines to minimize ecological footprint and educate visitors on protecting Florida’s marine biodiversity.
Keeps you shaded during sunny afternoon sessions.
summer specific
Protects eyes from glare on the water.
Helps preserve the local marine environment.
summer specific
Stay hydrated during your time outside.