Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres
Experience an unforgettable swim with dolphins in the clear waters of Isla Mujeres. Enjoy thrilling interactions and a beautiful island setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy more time
Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy more time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience an unforgettable swim with dolphins in the clear waters of Isla Mujeres. Enjoy thrilling interactions and a beautiful island setting.
"Swimming with the dolphins was absolutely amazing, and you could tell the dolphins were well-cared for."
🎯 Book Ahead for Best Slots
Secure your spot for popular dolphin swims by booking in advance, especially during busy periods.
💰 Photo Prices: Decide Budget
Professional photos are pricey ($40+). Decide if it's worth it for your once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Swim Experience
Dolphin Discovery Pool
Experience the thrill of a dolphin kiss, handshake, and a thrilling belly ride. Truly unforgettable!
Dolphin Encounter
Dolphin Discovery Pool
An intimate hour with dolphins, perfect for groups, offering a basic yet amazing interaction.
Buffet Lunch
Dolphin Discovery Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious, included buffet lunch after your aquatic adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Dolphin Encounter in Advance
Photo Packages Are Pricey, Consider Your Budget
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Best Slots
Secure your spot for popular dolphin swims by booking in advance, especially during busy periods.
💰 Photo Prices: Decide Budget
Professional photos are pricey ($40+). Decide if it's worth it for your once-in-a-lifetime memory.
⏰ Go Early for Full Day Fun
Arrive early to maximize your experience and enjoy the entire day without rushing.
💧 Basic Option is Fun Too
Even the basic dolphin encounter in groups is a fun way to spend time with dolphins.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Best Slots
Secure your spot for popular dolphin swims by booking in advance, especially during busy periods.
💰 Photo Prices: Decide Budget
Professional photos are pricey ($40+). Decide if it's worth it for your once-in-a-lifetime memory.
⏰ Go Early for Full Day Fun
Arrive early to maximize your experience and enjoy the entire day without rushing.
💧 Basic Option is Fun Too
Even the basic dolphin encounter in groups is a fun way to spend time with dolphins.
☀️ Enjoy the Beautiful Location
The clear waters and serene atmosphere add to the magical dolphin interaction.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unforgettable dolphin encounters, praising the well-maintained facilities and friendly, knowledgeable staff. The included buffet lunch is a convenient bonus. However, the high cost of professional photo packages is a recurring point of disappointment for many, despite the overall positive experience.
"Dolphin encounter was a lot of fun. A very unique experience. They also take photos of you when you are playing with the dolphins. The pictures are quite pricey but a great experience overall."
Karen Luo
"The Catamaran crew were excellent, particularly Juan. However, there was a discrepancy between the information provided by TUI and the reality at the park. The activities offered by TUI were not available at the park, and we, along with others, were unable to participate in additional activities due to rough water. Considering the significant cost of the experience and the limited participation, we believe some compensation would have been appropriate. The compensation we received was insufficient, but we understand it is difficult to address this matter now that we have returned home."
gary reid
"2nd time. First time was 14 years ago. Walk-in visit. Purchased Royal Swim, the best package like last visit. Dolphin encounter for 1 hour was amazing. Lunch was delicious. Spent the whole day there. Will definitely go back on my next visit to Isla Mujeres. Go there early to enjoy the whole experience. If you’re in a rush, you’ll not have as much fun. I didn’t purchase the pictures because they were pricey besides I still have my coffee cup with my dolphin kiss on it from 14 years ago 😂. Now they want $40 for 1 picture 😳. $90 for the set. You can decide if you want them. No pressure. If you have the money, by all means buy them. Especially if it’s your first time."
Nitayaporn Devine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors arrive via ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. From the ferry terminal, you can take a taxi or rent a golf cart to reach Dolphin Discovery. Many tour packages also include transportation from your hotel in Cancun.
This varies depending on the package you purchase. Some packages include ferry tickets and transportation from Cancun, while others may only cover the experience at the park. Always check the details of your booking.
Renting a golf cart is a popular and fun way to explore the island and get to Dolphin Discovery. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, it's a very popular day trip! You'll need to take a ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres and then head to Dolphin Discovery. Many tours bundle ferry and park access.
It's best to arrive early in the morning to make the most of your day and avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and package, especially for popular options like the Royal Swim.
Dolphin Discovery offers various packages, including the Dolphin Encounter (a basic hour-long interaction) and the Royal Swim (a more extensive experience with a belly ride).
Prices vary significantly based on the package chosen and any current promotions. The Royal Swim is generally more expensive than the Dolphin Encounter.
Generally, there are no strict age limits for the Dolphin Encounter, but children must be accompanied by an adult. For the Royal Swim, there might be height or age restrictions. It's best to check their official website for the most current information.
Most packages include the dolphin interaction, access to the facility, and a buffet lunch. Some may also include ferry tickets or transportation.
📸 📸 Photography & Souvenirs
Generally, personal cameras and phones are not allowed in the water during the dolphin interactions for safety reasons. Professional photographers are on-site to capture the moments.
The professional photo packages can be quite expensive, with single photos around $40 and sets costing up to $90.
This is a personal decision. If it's your first time and you want a lasting memento, they are high-quality. However, many visitors find the cost prohibitive.
Yes, there is typically a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs related to dolphins and your visit.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but it's always worth asking at the photo counter if there are any special offers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, most Dolphin Discovery packages include a complimentary buffet lunch.
The buffet typically offers a variety of Mexican and international dishes, catering to different tastes.
Buffets usually have a range of salads and vegetable dishes, but it's advisable to inquire upon arrival about specific dietary needs.
Yes, beverages are usually available for purchase, though some packages might include non-alcoholic drinks.
The buffet is typically open during specific hours, usually coinciding with the main visitor times. Check the park's schedule upon arrival.
🎫 🐬 Dolphin Interaction
The Dolphin Encounter is a 1-hour program with basic interactions like petting and kissing. The Royal Swim is more extensive, including a belly ride and a 'foot push' from the dolphins.
Reviewers consistently mention that the dolphins appear well-cared for and that the trainers are knowledgeable and create a fun environment.
For the basic Dolphin Encounter, groups can consist of around 10-12 people.
Yes, depending on the package, you can pet, hug, and interact closely with the dolphins.
While some travelers express concerns about swimming with dolphins in general, many reviews for Dolphin Discovery highlight the positive care and training of the animals. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking your tickets in advance to secure a time slot that works best for your family's schedule. Arriving early will also help manage energy levels and allow for a more relaxed pace throughout the day. While photo packages are pricey, they can be a great way to capture your children's joy during this unique experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be prepared for the high cost of professional photo packages and decide if it fits your budget. Many visitors find that the memories made are priceless, and you can often find more affordable souvenirs in the gift shop or elsewhere on Isla Mujeres. Prioritize booking your tickets in advance to potentially snag better rates or secure a package that offers the best value.
couples
Consider booking a morning slot to enjoy a leisurely lunch together afterward, perhaps exploring more of Isla Mujeres. While photos are an added expense, they can serve as a beautiful memento of your special time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Dolphin Experience
For a more exhilarating adventure, the Royal Swim package is the top-tier choice. This premium experience includes all the elements of the Dolphin Encounter but adds thrilling activities like a 'belly ride,' where you hold onto the dolphin's fins as it propels you through the water, and a 'foot push,' where the dolphin lifts you out of the water. This package is designed for maximum excitement and interaction.
When selecting your package, consider your comfort level with water activities and the intensity of interaction you desire. Both options provide a memorable encounter with dolphins in a well-maintained facility.
Navigating Isla Mujeres and Your Visit
To make the most of your day, it's highly recommended to arrive early. This not only helps you beat the crowds but also allows ample time to enjoy the entire experience without feeling rushed. Many visitors opt to spend the whole day at the facility, taking advantage of the included buffet lunch and the beautiful surroundings.
Remember that while the experience itself is the main draw, the island of Isla Mujeres offers beautiful beaches and a charming atmosphere that can be enjoyed before or after your dolphin encounter. Planning your transport and arrival time will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Understanding Photo Packages and Costs
This pricing has led many visitors to weigh the value of these professional shots against the overall cost of the experience. Some feel it's a worthwhile investment for a once-in-a-lifetime memory, especially for first-time visitors. Others find the prices to be unnecessarily steep and opt to forgo the purchase, relying on their own memories or perhaps a single keepsake like a branded coffee cup from a previous visit.
It's important to approach this aspect with a clear budget in mind. Decide beforehand if purchasing photos aligns with your financial plans for the trip. While the photos are professionally done, the decision to buy them is a personal one, and many visitors still have an incredible time without them.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit