Punta Cana Royal Dolphin Swim

Bavaro Beach Area

Royal Swim With Dolphins in Punta Cana

Royal Swim with Dolphins Punta Cana

Swim with dolphins in Punta Cana and experience our premium Royal Dolphin Swim, featuring shallow- and deep-water interaction plus an exciting Royal Ride with 2 dolphins.

Spend time touching, playing, kissing, and interacting with a dolphin before heading into deeper water for even more action.

The highlight is your Royal Ride with 2 dolphins. Depending on the dolphins and the trainer that day, your ride may be either a double dorsal fin ride or an exciting foot push.

The dolphins are never forced to perform a specific behavior. The trainer selects the appropriate dolphins and ride based on the animals and the session that day.

$195 Per Adult / $195 Per Child

Round-trip transportation is included from most participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts.

– Must be 47″ inches /  3’11” / 120 cm+

Book Your Royal Dolphin Swim << Click Here

Why Choose the Royal Dolphin Swim?

The Royal Dolphin Swim is the premium Punta Cana dolphin experience for guests who want the most exciting in-water program.

  • Approximately 50 minutes of dolphin interaction
  • Shallow- and deep-water activities
  • Royal Ride with 2 dolphins
  • Double dorsal fin ride or foot push
  • Touch, kiss, play, and interact with a dolphin
  • Small group experience – 10 maximum
  • Resort transportation from most participating hotels
  • Shark and ray snorkeling included

John’s Insider Tip

There is nothing quite like the pull of a Double Dorsal Fin Ride or a
Double Dolphin Foot Push. It is hard to explain just how powerful dolphins are until you experience it for yourself.

All I can say is, “Hold on!” and enjoy the ride in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters.

If you think the power of the Royal Ride might be a little too much for you, I highly recommend the
Dolphin Action Swim. It is still an exciting dolphin experience, but the ride is much easier and more comfortable for many guests.


Dolphin Action Swim << Click Here

What Happens During Your Punta Cana Dolphin Swim?

1. Resort Pickup

You’ll either be picked up from your participating Punta Cana or Bávaro Beach resort (look below for Resort list), or you can arrive by private transfer or drive yourself.

2. Arrival & Dolphin Educational Briefing

Learn about dolphins, dolphin behavior, and how to interact safely with them.

3. Shallow-Water Interaction

Touch, kiss, pet, play, and participate in trainer-led dolphin behaviors.

4. Deep-Water Dolphin Swim

Move into deeper natural seawater for more active dolphin interaction.

5. Royal Ride With 2 Dolphins

The highlight of the program is your Royal Ride with 2 dolphins. Depending on the dolphins and trainer that day, you may receive either a double dorsal fin ride or an exciting foot push.

6. Shark & Ray Snorkeling

Continue your marine adventure with sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

7. Photos & Return Transportation

After your experience, visit the photo area to view and purchase your photos. For current photo pricing, please see the FAQ section below. Once you have finished viewing your photos, return transportation will be provided to your participating hotel or resort. Morning pickup guests will return to their resort at approximately 12:00 PM, while afternoon pickup guests will return at approximately 5:00 PM.

Now in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, you can swim with dolphins and enjoy up-close moments like dolphin kisses, snuggles, and exciting aerial acrobatics. The Royal Swim with Dolphins program is known as one of the most dynamic experiences at the Punta Cana / Bávaro Beach dolphin facility. Dolphin Royal Swim is the perfect mix of action and fun—high-energy interaction with plenty of unforgettable dolphin time.

Deep water dolphin swims in Bavaro Beach Punta Cana

Ready to Swim With Dolphins in Punta Cana? Here’s What You Need to Know

Important: Every session is different. Specific rides and interactions vary based on the dolphins and the group.

Age & Supervision Policy

  • Guests age 17 and under must have one paid adult (18+) in the water with them.
  • Ratio: 1 adult per up to 3 children.

Gear & What to Bring

  • A flotation belt is provided. Wetsuits are not provided.
  • Please wear your bathing suit and bring a towel.

On-Site Amenities

  • Lockers to put your belonging are available at no charge.
  • Outdoor rinse and changing rooms available

Facility Rules

  • No observers or companions are permitted to enter the facility due to limited space on Dolphin Island.
  • All participants must know how to swim. If any member can not swim, you must participate in the Dolphin Family Experience (non-swim).

Bonus Activities on Site

  • Snorkel and interact with nurse sharks & stingrays (equipment included).

Group Size

Maximum of 10 participants per dolphin session.

Available with your Program:

Your time slot includes a guaranteed Royal Dolphin program, a short educational briefing, and round-trip transportation from your resort to the private beach and back. Soft drinks are included, along with a boat ride to Dolphin Island and snorkeling with sharks and rays. Plan for up to 4 hours of activities total.

Note: The park is closed on Sundays.

Reserve Your 2-Dolphin Royal Ride << Click

Bávaro Beach / Punta Cana Location:

  • Dolphin Island  is located at a private park. < MAP > This location is in between Bavaro Beach and Punta Cana Airport.

Dolphin Royal Swim Punta Cana Bavaro Beach

Which Punta Cana Dolphin Experience Is Right for You?

Not sure which dolphin program to choose?
All three Punta Cana dolphin experiences offer close-up interaction, but each is designed for a different type of guest.

For Mobile Scroll =>

Experience Royal Dolphin Swim Action Swim Dolphin Experience
Best For Premium, most exciting experience Active swim at a lower price Gentler dolphin interaction
Water Type Shallow + Deep Shallow + Deep Shallow
Swimming Required Yes Yes No
Dolphin Ride Yes Yes No
2-Dolphin Royal Ride YES No No
Ride Type Double dorsal fin ride or foot push Standard dolphin ride No ride
Dolphin Interaction Touch, kiss, play & behaviors Touch, kiss, play & behaviors Touch, pet & interact
Resort Transportation Included from most resorts Included from most resorts Included from most resorts
Shark & Ray Snorkel Included Included Included
Price $195 $155 $120

 

Reserve Your Punta Cana Swim Spot << Click Here

John’s Insider Tip

The transportation around Bávaro Beach and Punta Cana is very reliable and can actually be a fun part of the experience. The pickup vehicle is open-air with a roof to help keep the sun off your head, so you can enjoy the ride, take in the local scenery, and wave to people as you pass by.

Be sure to read the resort pickup list on this page carefully so you know whether your hotel has a morning or afternoon pickup.

If your resort is not listed, private transportation may be available for an additional fee. You can email me at

dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com

and I’ll help you with the options. Enjoy the ride!

Hotel & Resort Transportation

Free round-trip transportation is included from participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts.

Pickup schedules vary by resort and day of the week. Please review the list below to find your hotel.

Monday to Saturday — Morning & Afternoon Pickups

Free pickup is available from the following resorts:

  • Bahia Aquamarine
  • Bahia Bavaro
  • Bahia Fantasia
  • Bahia Punta Cana
  • Barcelo Beach
  • Barcelo Palace
  • Bavaro Princes
  • Caribe Club Princes
  • Dreams Royal
  • Iberostar Bavaro
  • Iberostar Dominicana
  • Iberostar Grand
  • Iberostar Punta Cana
  • Impressive
  • Lopesan
  • Majestic Colonial
  • Majestic Elegance
  • Majestic Mirage
  • Melia Caribe
  • Melia Falcon
  • Melia Punta Cana
  • Occidental Caribe
  • Occidental Gran Punta Cana
  • Ocean Blue
  • Palladium Bavaro / Meeting Point
  • Palladium Palace
  • Paradisus Palma Real
  • Paradisus Palma Real The Reserve
  • Punta Cana Princes
  • Riu Bambu
  • Riu Naiboa
  • Riu Palace Bavaro
  • Riu Palace Macao / Meeting Point
  • Riu Palace Punta Cana
  • Riu Republica
  • Royalton Bavaro
  • Royalton Punta Cana
  • Royalton Splash
  • Secrets Royal Beach
  • Vik
  • Vista Sol
  • Whala


View Bávaro Beach Dolphin Program Pickup Times << Click Here

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday — Morning Pickups Only

  • Catalonia Bavaro: 8:00 AM
  • Catalonia Royal: 8:05 AM
  • Dreams Flora: 7:35 AM
  • Dreams Palm Beach: 7:40 AM
  • Jewel Palm Beach: 7:40 AM
  • Serenade: 7:50 AM
  • Sumscape Coco (Antiguo Belive): 7:45 AM

Arrival Location: Base DIP

Monday, Wednesday & Friday — Morning Pickups Only

  • Breathless: 7:15 AM
  • Dreams Macao: 7:45 AM
  • Dreams Onyx: 7:20 AM
  • Excellence El Carmen: 7:10 AM
  • Excellence Finest: 7:05 AM
  • Excellence Punta Cana: 6:50 AM
  • Hard Rock: 7:45 AM
  • Nickelodeon: 7:25 AM
  • Ocean El Faro: 7:30 AM
  • Royalton Chic: 7:25 AM
  • Secrets Tides: 7:10 AM
  • Sirenis: 7:05 AM
  • Wyndham Alltra (Jewel Punta Cana): 7:20 AM
  • Zoetry: 6:45 AM

Approximate Return Times

Morning pickup guests return to their resort at approximately 12:00 PM.
Afternoon pickup guests return at approximately 5:00 PM.

If Your Resort Is Not Listed

If your resort or accommodations are not included on our pickup list,private transfer options may be available.

You may also arrange your own transportation by rental car or taxi. If you choose to drive yourself, we will send complete directions and arrival instructions by email.

Please note: transportation service is not available for hotels in the La Romana area.

Have questions? Please contact us at 800-667-5524.

$195 per Adult/$195 per Child

Reserve the Bus & Your Swim << Click Now

Punta Cana Royal Dolphin Swim FAQs

1. How much does the Punta Cana Royal Dolphin Swim cost?

The Royal Dolphin Swim is $195 per person for both adults and children who meet the participation requirements. Transportation from most participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts is included.

2. What is included with the Royal Dolphin Swim?

Your experience includes an educational dolphin briefing, shallow- and deep-water interaction, a Royal Ride with 2 dolphins, boat transportation to Dolphin Island, shark and ray snorkeling, soft drinks, flotation equipment, and transportation from most participating resorts.

3. What is the Royal Ride with 2 dolphins?

The Royal Ride is the signature feature of this program. Two dolphins participate in the ride, creating a much more powerful and exciting experience than a standard single-dolphin ride.

4. Will I get a double dorsal fin ride or a foot push?

Your Royal Ride may be a double dorsal fin ride or a double-dolphin foot push. The exact ride is determined by the dolphins and trainer on the day of your program. A Royal Ride is included, but a specific type of ride cannot be selected in advance.

5. Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes. The Royal Dolphin Swim includes time in deeper water, so participants should be comfortable swimming. Flotation equipment is provided. Guests who prefer to stay in shallow water should consider the Dolphin Experience instead.

6. Is transportation included from my Punta Cana resort?

Transportation is included from most participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts. Pickup days and times vary by hotel. If your accommodations are not on the pickup list, private transportation may be available, or you can arrange your own transportation.

7. How long should I plan for the entire excursion?

Plan for approximately 4 hours total, including resort transportation, check-in, the educational presentation, dolphin program, additional marine activities, photo viewing, and return transportation.

8. What is the minimum height for the Royal Dolphin Swim?

Participants must be at least 47 inches / 3’11” / 120 cm tall to take part in the Royal Dolphin Swim.

9. Can children participate in the Royal Dolphin Swim?

Yes. Children who meet the minimum height requirement may participate. Families should also review the current adult supervision requirements when making their reservation.

10. Are professional photos available?

Yes. A professional photographer will take photos of you and your group during your dolphin experience. Photos are available, but video is not included.

  • Personal cameras are not permitted in the water with the dolphins or in the dolphin staging area.
  • Digital photo packages usually include approximately 20–30 photos.
  • Packages start at approximately $80+ for 1–2 people and $120+ for 3 or more people.
  • Single digital photos are approximately $50 each.

11. What should I bring for my dolphin swim?

Wear or bring a bathing suit and towel, along with a change of clothes if desired. Flotation equipment is provided. You may also want to bring a payment method if you plan to purchase professional photos or other items.

12. What is the difference between the Royal Dolphin Swim, Action Swim, and Dolphin Experience?

The Royal Dolphin Swim is the premium option and includes the exciting Royal Ride with 2 dolphins. The Action Swim also includes deep-water interaction and a dolphin ride, but with 1-dolphin and 1 ride, usually the famous belly ride. The Dolphin Experience is the gentler option for guests who prefer shallow-water interaction without deep-water swimming or a dolphin ride.

Dolphin Care & Social Commitment

The dolphin facility in Punta Cana places a strong emphasis on responsible dolphin care, professional training, and guest education.

The dolphins’ health and well-being come first. Trainers work with each dolphin based on the animal’s comfort, willingness, and individual behavior.

That is also why the exact Royal Ride may vary from one session to another.

Certificate of Excellence

The facility has earned the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Support Dolphin Care — Book Now << Click

 

Refunds / Cancellations and Changes:

All cancellations must be received by Dolphin World / Keys Adventure Tours, Inc. in writing by email or regular mail.

  • A 10% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations prior 31 days of activity date.
  • A 50% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations within 30 – 15 day period prior activity date.
  • A 75% service charge will apply per person for any cancellations within 14 – 8 day period prior activity date.
  • Prior 8 days of your reservation date, you may change your reservation to a gift certificate, where you would not incur any penalties except the change fee. This gift certificate will be good for 1 year from the date of the certificate.
  • NO REFUND WILL BE GIVEN TO ANY ACTIVITY PARTICIPANTS who cancel within the 7 day period, does not show up, are late for scheduled program(s). Once a reservation has a confirmation number and confirmed, a refund or change can only be made more than 7 days of the activity date and any change to the program date is subject to availability. Changes made to existing reservations are subject to a $25.00 per person change fee.
  • The Dolphin Swim goes on Rain or Shine.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THE PURCHASE OF TRIP INSURANCE, which will cover your purchase 100% for any interruptions to your Dolphin World activities! We recommend TravelEx Insurance. Ask a Dolphin World Travel professional for advice on Travel Insurance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are programs carried out in the sea or tanks?
  • The programs are conducted in a enclosure in natural sea water.
If my friends want to go with me without swimming, do they have to pay a special fee as observers?
  • Your companions are not permitted due to very limited space on Dolphin Island.
Could I have a towel if I swim with dolphins in Punta Cana?
  • We have no towel service at the moment, it is necessary that you bring your own.
Is there a safe place where I can leave my stuff?
  • Dolphin Island has locker rental FREE of charge where you can leave your belongings safely and reliably as we have locks on the latest technology.
How many people are in the water at the same time?
  • Royal Swim: 10 maximum.
  • Swim Action: 12 people maximum.
  • Dolphin Family Encounter: 12 people maximum.
Can I feed the dolphins?
  • Dolphins have a specifically balanced diet according to their age, activity and development, so feeding dolphins is not allowed as this could affect their health.
Do you offer therapy programs with dolphins?
  • No, we currently do not have this service, our programs are educational and interactive. However, we invite you to participate in any of our programs, you can review the security policies section for more information on the participation of people with disabilities.
How I can recognize the transportation vehicle?
  • All our units have the Dolphin Island logo, plus the staff will have distinctive uniform.
Will I have to wear a life jacket?
  • The use of life jackets is required in all water programs, our staff will provide the jacket that best suits your complexion, we have jackets available in different sizes.
I am a person with disabilities, Can I participate in the programs?
  • People with disabilities will not be able participate in this programs.

Can pregnant women participate?

  • Pregnant women are not allowed to participate.

What is included in my dolphin swim ticket?

  • Every dolphin program at Dolphin Island Park currently includes two “special gifts” to round out your adventure.

  • In addition to your specific dolphin interaction, you are guaranteed the Shark & Ray Snorkel, a 5–10 minute supervised swim where you can see nurse sharks and stingrays up close.

Can I bring my own GoPro or phone to take pictures in the water?

  • For the safety of the animals and to prevent electronic devices from being dropped into the ocean, personal cameras and phones are not permitted on the floating platforms or in the water.

  • Secure lockers are provided where you can safely store your devices during your experience, FREE rental.

How do I get my photos after the swim?

  • Professional photographers document the entire experience, and you can visit the photo desk on the beach afterward.

  • They offer various packages, including digital downloads and high-quality prints.

  • Photo packages and prices can be negotiated with the onsite photo manager.

Am I allowed to wear sunscreen during the dolphin swim?

  • To protect the sensitive skin of the dolphins and the health of the coral reefs, the use of biodegradable sunscreen is highly preferred.

  • If you are wearing standard sunscreen, it should be applied at least 30 minutes before entering the water to ensure it is fully absorbed.

What should I wear and bring for the excursion?

  • A comfortable swimsuit is essential, and a rash guard is recommended as the waiting platforms have limited shade.

  • Please leave all jewelry (earrings, rings, bracelets) at your hotel, as these can accidentally scratch the dolphins.

  • Bring a dry change of clothes and a towel for the bus ride back to your resort; showers and changing rooms are available at the beach facility.

Is it safe to swim with the sharks and stingrays?

  • Yes, this is a safe, family-friendly encounter designed for guests of all ages.

  • You will be swimming with docile Nurse Sharks, and the stingrays are accustomed to people with their barbs safely trimmed.

  • Life jackets are mandatory and provided for everyone, and trainers are in the water to guide you.

How do I get to Dolphin Island Park from my resort?

  • A complimentary round-trip transfer is provided for guests in the Bávaro Beach area using signature open-air Caribbean buses.

  • These transfers arrive at Base DIP before the dolphin programs begin.

What time does the bus pick me up?

  • Route 1 (e.g., RIU, Bahia, Royalton, Majestic): Morning pickups are generally between 7:00 AM and 7:55 AM; afternoon pickups are between 12:00 PM and 12:50 PM.

  • Route 2 (e.g., Iberostar, Princess, Palladium, Melia, Barceló): Morning pickups are generally between 7:00 AM and 8:25 AM; afternoon pickups are between 11:50 AM and 1:05 PM.

  • Guests should be ready 10 minutes early at the designated meeting point or lobby.

Q: What if I miss my bus?

  • The buses run on a precise schedule and cannot be held for late arrivals.

  • If you miss your transfer, you should contact Dolphin Island guest services on WhatsApp (849) 314-0796 immediately.

What if there is inclement weather?
  • Our programs go on rain or shine, so there are no cancellations or refunds in these cases.

 

Dolphin World Gift Card – Give an Experience They’ll Never Forget

Looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves dolphins, animals, travel, or unforgettable experiences?

Instead of giving another gift that may be forgotten, give them the chance to create a memory they will talk about for years with a Dolphin World Gift Card.

A Dolphin World Gift Card is a great choice for birthdays, holidays, graduations, anniversaries, weddings, family vacations, and bucket-list surprises. The recipient can use the gift card toward participating Dolphin World experiences and choose the adventure that is right for them.

Whether they dream of swimming with dolphins, meeting dolphins in shallow water, or enjoying another amazing animal interaction, you are giving them something much more meaningful than a traditional gift—you are giving them an experience.

Not sure which dolphin program or location they would enjoy most? That is exactly why a gift card makes such a great present. Let them choose the experience that fits their family, vacation plans, and comfort level.


Click Here for a Dolphin World Gift Card <<<

Give the gift of dolphins. Give the gift of memories.

Share Your Dolphin World Experience – Leave a Review!

Did you and your family enjoy your dolphin swim, dolphin encounter, or another unforgettable animal interaction? We would love to hear about your experience!

At Dolphin World, we have spent over 30 years helping families create special memories with dolphins and other amazing marine animals. Your honest feedback helps us improve and also helps other families decide which experience is right for them.

Thinking About Swimming With Dolphins for the First Time?

If you are visiting our website for the first time and trying to decide whether a swim with dolphins bucket-list experience is really worth it, don’t just take our word for it.

Take a few minutes to read what past guests have shared about their experiences on Google. Their reviews can help you understand what the experience is really like and whether it is the right choice for you and your family.

Read Dolphin World Reviews on Google << Click Here

Already Experienced Dolphin World? Please Leave Us a Review

If you have already booked an animal interaction through Dolphin World, we would really appreciate hearing about your experience. The only way we can continue improving is by listening to our guests.

Thank you for choosing Dolphin World! Your feedback means a great deal to us and helps future guests feel more confident about checking this unforgettable experience off their bucket list.

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More Information

Reservation Office Hours

  • Monday – Friday,
  • 8am – 5pm EST
  • Saturday,
  • 8am – 2pm EST
  • Sunday,
  • Closed

Online Reservations

Email or Live Chat

Love The Dolphins!

john the dolphin expert

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