Written by John the Dolphin Expert
Swimming with dolphins is one of those experiences many people place on their bucket list, but they are not always sure what to expect before arriving. After more than 30 years of helping families, couples, and groups plan dolphin experiences, I have learned that having the right information ahead of time makes the entire day more enjoyable.
If you are considering Swimming with Dolphins St Augustine, this guide covers the most important details about the dolphin swim at Marineland, including what happens in the water, swimming requirements, arrival time, photos, weather policies, accessibility, special occasions, and more.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Swim includes approximately 30 minutes of dolphin interaction in both shallow and deep water. Your experience normally begins in shallow water that is approximately two to three feet deep.
During this part of the program, you may pet the dolphin, touch its smooth skin, practice hand signals, participate in behaviors, and take part in memorable close-up interactions. This gives everyone time to become comfortable before moving into the deeper portion of the pool.
The deeper water is approximately 15 to 20 feet deep. Participants swim into the deeper area while wearing a required life vest. You will continue interacting with the dolphins in a small group and usually receive at least one dolphin ride. To get the latest pricing, please go to my Swim with Dolphins St Augustine page.
One of the highlights is the belly ride. During this ride, you hold onto the dolphin’s pectoral fins while facing the dolphin. Your belly and the dolphin’s belly are positioned close together as the dolphin carries you across the water.
It is exciting, fast, and often the moment guests remember most from the entire experience.
Yes. You must be able to swim and feel comfortable in deep water to participate in the St. Augustine Dolphin Swim.
A life vest is mandatory and helps keep you floating, but it does not replace basic swimming ability. Participants must be able to move through the water, follow the trainer’s directions, and remain comfortable in water that may be 15 to 20 feet deep.
If you become nervous in deep water or cannot swim independently, the dolphin swim may not be the right activity for you.
Although the dolphin interaction itself is approximately 30 minutes, you should plan to spend about two to two and a half hours at the facility.
This allows time for checking in, changing clothes, receiving safety instructions, completing the dolphin program, viewing your photographs, and exploring the animal exhibits.
Your dolphin swim also includes admission to the facility. Depending on the daily schedule, you may be able to watch dolphin presentations and view sharks, rays, sea turtles, tropical fish, and other marine life.
You should arrive and check in one hour before your scheduled dolphin swim. Do not arrive at the exact program time. The staff needs time to check your reservation, explain the rules, provide your life vest, and prepare your group.
Program times and park hours can change by season, so always review the confirmation information you receive after booking.
Wear your bathing suit under your clothing and bring a towel. I also recommend bringing dry clothes to change into after the experience.
Parking is free, which makes arrival easy for families and larger groups. You should also leave unnecessary valuables at home or secured in your vehicle.
No jewelry, piercings, or body dermals are permitted during the dolphin swim. This includes rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, nose rings, belly-button rings, watches, and other removable items.
The staff is strict about this policy because loose or sharp objects could injure a dolphin or fall into the water. Remove your jewelry before arriving whenever possible.
Yes. Family members and friends may purchase an observer or general-admission ticket. Observers watch from an area across the pool and may take their own photographs and videos.
A camera or phone with a normal zoom can usually capture good images. Participants cannot carry cameras into the water, but observers may photograph the experience from the designated viewing area.
Professional photographs are not included in the dolphin swim price. A photographer takes pictures during the experience, and digital photo packages may be purchased afterward.
If photographs are important to you, include the additional photo expense in your vacation budget.
The maximum weight for the St. Augustine Dolphin Swim is 250 pounds, or approximately 114 kilograms.
Pregnant guests cannot participate in the in-water dolphin swim. They may still visit the facility as an observer and watch family members or friends.
Trained service dogs may be permitted in certain public areas, but they cannot enter the dolphin deck or animal-interaction areas. Guests may be asked to describe the task the service animal performs and provide proof of current rabies vaccination.
Participation for guests with disabilities or mobility challenges is reviewed individually and requires trainer approval before booking.
Participants generally need to walk to the dolphin area, climb onto a platform, enter the water, and exit with minimal staff assistance. A family member or personal assistant may sometimes help, depending on the situation.
Send complete information about the participant’s mobility, ability to walk, ability to transfer, and assistance requirements to dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com before making a reservation. Do not leave out important details. Guests who arrive and cannot safely participate may not receive a refund.
The dolphin swim normally operates rain or shine. Dolphins are already wet, and a regular rain shower does not usually stop the program.
Lightning is different. If lightning is detected, participants must leave the water until conditions are safe. If a major storm causes the facility to close, guests may be offered a reschedule or refund according to the facility’s decision.
Reservations are prepaid, and the cancellation policy becomes stricter as the program date approaches. Cancellations within seven days receive no refund. Cancellations made eight to 14 days in advance receive a 50% refund, while cancellations made 15 to 29 days in advance receive a 75% refund. Cancellations made more than 30 days ahead receive a 90% refund.
Rescheduling is subject to availability and normally costs $25 per participant.
The St. Augustine Dolphin Swim is especially popular for birthday parties, engagements, wedding anniversaries, graduations, and other celebrations.
For an additional fee, a dolphin may bring your guest a buoy with a message such as “Happy Birthday,” “Happy Anniversary,” or “Will You Marry Me?” A premade buoy message normally costs $50 and includes one complimentary printed photograph. At least 24 hours’ notice is required, and availability is not guaranteed.
For an engagement, do not bring the ring into the water. The ring could fall into the lagoon and create a safety risk. Exchange the ring afterward on land near the dolphin area.
Marineland is located south of historic St. Augustine at 9600 North Oceanshore Boulevard. It is a convenient choice for visitors searching for Swimming with Dolphins Near Jacksonville or Swimming with Dolphins Near Daytona Beach.
Driving time is usually about one hour from Jacksonville or Daytona Beach and approximately two hours from Orlando, depending on traffic and your starting location. A rental car or personal vehicle is strongly recommended because transportation options are limited outside St. Augustine.
The best advice I can give is to reserve early, arrive one hour ahead of time, remove all jewelry, and be honest about your swimming ability. The St. Augustine Dolphin Swim is much more than a quick attraction. It is a personal, exciting experience that allows you to interact closely with one of the ocean’s most intelligent animals.
Come prepared, follow the trainers’ instructions, and enjoy every moment. For many guests, swimming with dolphins in St. Augustine becomes the highlight of their entire Florida vacation.
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