For many, the dolphin swim is the reason to go to Discovery Cove. We are enamored with these fantastic marine creatures. Perhaps it is their intelligence, grace, free-spirited demeanor and propensity for playfulness that we admire. Dolphins represent a carefree lifestyle that many of us envy.
Discovery Cove's Dolphin Swim is a life-long, memorable
experience. The 30 minute dolphin encounter is a combination
of education, fun and exhilaration. These powerful but gentle
animals will swim inches in front of guests, roll over to have their
bellies rubbed, kiss and be kissed, talk, splash and perform awesome
jumps.
Several
groups of six to eight guests are arranged in a line in shallow
water where each group is greeted by their own dolphin. Guests
are introduced and then interact with their dolphin through a series
of activities. The highlight of the session comes with a swim
out to deeper water (swim vests are worn), where your dolphin will
allow you to hold his/her fins while the dolphin swims with you
back to the shallow area. This is an absolutely unforgettable
experience!
Discovery
Cove's Coral Reef is awesome! From the sur, it looks like
a pretty lagoon of clear, turquoise water accentuated with a ship
wreck. Put a mask and snorkel on and swim along the sur
to discover the real magnificence of this simulated coral reef. There
are thousands of exotic and colorful fish of all sizes and shapes. There
are also numerous types of rays (all harmless) of which some are
impressively large! Look closer and be surprised by real sharks
and barracuda as they swim safely (good thing!) behind protective
glass from within the simulated ship wreck. Anyone who enjoys
snorkeling in the Florida Keys, or would like to in a controlled
environment, will enjoy Discovery Cove's Coral Reef.
Relaxation. It doesn't get any better. Float along the slowly moving, turquoise waters of the Tropical River as is meanders along winding turns with lush gardens and palm trees along its banks. Refresh as you pass through waterfalls spilling over the river or go through the rocky cave. Step out as you pass into the aviary to enjoy the variety of exotic birds, or at any of the sandy beaches along the way to relax in the sun or grab a snack.
Ever
consider walking and swimming among stingrays! You can (safely!)
here. The clear lagoon is shallow and stocked with many southern
and cow-nose rays permitting adults and children an extraordinary
experience. Rays, some 4 feet in width!, swim gracefully around
the lagoon where guests can wade or snorkel to get to nose
with these gentle creatures. Reach out and touch the velvety
rays as they glide past.
What
tropical paradise would be complete without exotic birds?! Discovery
Cove Aviary is home to more than 30 species of birds. Walk
along the lush gardens and admire the beautiful birds, listen to
their exotic conversations and stop to feed them if desired. There
are more than 250 tropical birds in the enclosed, free flight aviary. Explore
the the winding trails, stone catacombs and pass over bridges and
across rivers.
Ooohhh.
. . Sparkling, crystal-clear water at 80 degrees F. year
round, white sandy beaches, water falls, surrounded by a tropical
setting - what could be more relaxing or serene!? Swim or
snorkel in the clear, shallow waters, or head over the grotto to
get a shoulder and neck massage from the water falls. Begin
your track to the Tropical River from here if desired.