Join a full-day marine mammal training program at Dolphins Plus in Key Largo. Experience hands-on interactions and learn about marine conservation in this unforgettable setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6-8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic mobility and be comfortable in water.
Wildlife
History
Dolphins Plus was established in 1984 and has since become a leader in marine mammal education and ethics.
Conservation
The center actively contributes to marine research and supports local conservation initiatives to preserve Florida’s coastal ecosystems.
Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder
Join a full-day marine mammal training program at Dolphins Plus in Key Largo. Experience hands-on interactions and learn about marine conservation in this unforgettable setting.
Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder, based in Key Largo, Florida, operates hands-on dolphin encounters, educational exhibits, and marine mammal rescue programs. The facility offers a range of experiences led by Animal Care specialists and expert trainers, including behind-the-scenes tours, interactive swims, and immersive Trainer for a Day programs.
Visitors can tour diet preparation areas, the veterinary lab, and rehabilitation spaces during the Caring for Dolphins Tour and Hard Hat Tour, gaining factual insight into animal healthcare and nonprofit hospital operations.
Dolphin Life programs hosted on site provide personalized encounter options such as the Connect to Protect Swim, Discover Dolphins Dockside, Splash & Swim, and full- or half-day Trainer for a Day experiences. These encounters include behaviors like handshakes, belly rubs, foot pushes, dorsal tows, and belly rides in ocean-water lagoons and deep-water environments, guided by trained staff.
The Exploratorium, a 2,000-square-foot interactive marine-life museum on site, features aquariums and exhibits focused on rescue, veterinary care, and local ecology, welcoming children aged 5 and up.
Dolphins Plus also supports rescue and research through donations, helping respond to whales and dolphins in distress and sustain ambassador animals that participate in educational programs.
Programs emphasize education, animal welfare, and vetted staff supervision to ensure safe, informative experiences. All tours and encounters are designed to be educational, regulated by trained animal care professionals, and intended to deepen public understanding of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and marine mammal rehabilitation.
Programs welcome families, educators, researchers and enthusiasts to learn about dolphin care and marine rehabilitation locally today.
Tours Offered
10 experiences
Hands-on swims, tours, and programs
Location
Key Largo, FL
Situated in the Florida Keys
Rescue & Care
Nonprofit hospital
Rehabilitation and veterinary care
Family Friendly
Ages 5+
Exploratorium welcomes children
Reserve a tour or encounter to learn about dolphin care, rescue, and rehabilitation with trained professionals.
Prepare with comfortable clothing
Wear quick-drying, comfortable clothes and bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Bring water bottles and regularly hydrate, especially in sunny Florida weather.
Respect the animals and follow instructions
Always listen to trainers and respect the animals' space for a safe, enjoyable experience.
Book in advance to secure your spot
These popular programs fill quickly, so reserve early to ensure availability.
Swimsuit
A swimsuit is necessary for swimming and interaction with marine mammals.
summer
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during the outdoor program.
spring;summer;fall
Towel
Bring a dry towel to clean up after water activities.
spring;summer;fall
Waterproof camera
Capture memories without damaging your equipment during aquatic activities.