Cozumel Dolphin Encounter

Chankanaab National Park

Dolphin Encounter: Close-Up Fun Without Swimming

 

$109 Adult/$109 Child

– 1 year old+  everyday except Sundays

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Dolphin Encounter Cozumel at Chankanaab Park

If you are looking for a family-friendly way to enjoy swimming with dolphins Cozumel, the Dolphin Encounter at Chankanaab Park is a wonderful choice. This experience is designed for guests who want close-up dolphin interaction in a beautiful Caribbean setting without needing a more advanced swim program. It is a popular option for families, first-time participants, and cruise guests visiting Cozumel.

Located inside Chankanaab Park, this dolphin program also gives guests the chance to enjoy more than just the animal interaction. With park access, helpful amenities, and a scenic island setting, it is one of the most enjoyable dolphin experiences in Cozumel.

What Is Included

Dolphin Encounter Experience

The Dolphin Encounter is designed to give guests a memorable and interactive experience with a dolphin in a safe and welcoming environment. This program focuses on close-up interaction and educational moments that make it a great option for guests of many ages.

  • Close-up dolphin interaction
  • Family-friendly dolphin experience
  • Educational information about dolphins
  • Guided program with marine mammal specialists
  • Interactive moments in the water

Park Access and Amenities

Your Dolphin Encounter also includes access to Chankanaab Park and several on-site amenities, helping turn your visit into a full day of fun in Cozumel.

  • Admission to Chankanaab Park
  • Sea Lion Presentation
  • Marine mammal presentations
  • Pool access
  • Showers and restrooms
  • Free Wi-Fi

Food and Drinks

This program also includes food and beverage benefits, adding even more value to your day at the park.

  • Buffet lunch included
  • Open bar included
  • Food and drinks available on site

Why Guests Like This Program

A Great Choice for Families and First-Time Guests

The Dolphin Encounter is a popular option for guests who want a gentler, more accessible dolphin experience. It works especially well for families traveling together and for visitors who want to enjoy a memorable marine animal activity in Cozumel.

  • Family-friendly experience
  • Good for first-time dolphin guests
  • Great for cruise passengers and vacationers
  • Combines dolphin interaction with a day at Chankanaab Park
  • Easy to enjoy for a wide range of ages

A Beautiful Cozumel Setting

Set inside one of Cozumel’s best-known natural attractions, this experience offers a scenic Caribbean setting that makes the day even more special. Guests can enjoy their dolphin program and then spend more time relaxing and exploring the park.

  • Located in beautiful Chankanaab Park
  • Easy access from the cruise port and resort areas
  • Ideal for a memorable day in Cozumel
  • One of the island’s most recognized dolphin locations

Important Information Before You Book

What Is Not Included

There are a few extras guests should plan for separately when booking this program.

  • Photos of your dolphin experience
  • Snorkel gear
  • Locker rental
  • Transportation to Chankanaab Park
  • Other activities in Cozumel outside the park
  • Aquatic animal participation tax collected at check-in

Child Participation Guidelines

This program is popular with families, but age and height rules do apply. Families should review the participation guidelines carefully before booking.

  • Children and infants may require accompanying paying adults
  • Participation rules are based on age, height, and proper life jacket fit
  • Some children may need additional adult accompaniment
  • Life jackets are required for all water programs

Safety and Arrival Information

Guests should plan ahead for check-in and follow the park’s safety rules to help make the day go smoothly.

  • Arrive early for check-in and briefing
  • Cameras are not allowed in the water
  • Professional photos are available separately
  • Bring a valid ID
  • Cruise guests should verify their ship schedule before booking

Health and Participation Guidelines

Some participation restrictions apply based on pregnancy and other health concerns. Guests with special circumstances should review the guidelines before booking.

  • Pregnancy restrictions may apply
  • Guests with health or physical concerns should ask questions before booking
  • Life jackets are mandatory in all water programs
  • Participation is subject to safety requirements

$109 Adult/$109 Child

– 1 year old+  everyday except Sundays

Book Now

Cozumel, Mexico Location

Your dolphin experience takes place at Chankanaab Natural Park in Cozumel, one of the island’s most popular natural attractions. After booking, you will receive complete written directions with your ticket to help make your arrival easy and stress-free. < MAP >

Approximate Travel Times to Chankanaab Natural Park

By taxi or private car

  • San Miguel de Cozumel: about 20 minutes
  • Cozumel Ferry to Playa del Carmen: about 20 minutes
  • Cruise Port: about 10 minutes
  • Cozumel Palace: about 15 minutes
  • Iberostar Waves Cozumel: about 15 minutes
  • Allegro Cozumel: about 10 minutes
  • Secrets Aura Cozumel: about 10 minutes

Cruise Passengers

If you are arriving by cruise ship, Chankanaab Natural Park is easy to reach by taxi from the port. Taxi fare is usually around $15 USD each way for up to 4 guests, although rates may vary. The Dolphin Discovery area is located near the park entrance, and clearly marked paths make it easy to find. Guests booked in a dolphin program receive free park admission, while non-participants generally pay separate admission.

Dolphin Discovery Photo Packages

Photo packages are available for guests who want to capture their dolphin experience. Packages usually range from about $99 to $209+ USD, depending on the location and package selected. Many include digital photos, and some may also include printed images. Booking online in advance may offer better savings than purchasing photos at the park.

Common Photo Package Prices

  • Dolphin Lovers’ Swim Memories: around $99 USD
  • Dolphin Swim Adventure Memories: around $159 to $179 USD
  • Dolphin Royal Swim Memories: around $199 to $209 USD
  • Individual printed photos: starting at about $40 USD each

$109 Adult/$109 Child

– 1 year old+  everyday except Sundays

Book Now

Plan Your Dolphin Encounter in Cozumel

The Dolphin Encounter Cozumel is a fun and memorable way to enjoy a close-up dolphin experience in one of the island’s most scenic locations. With interactive moments, educational value, park access, and family-friendly appeal, it is a great choice for guests looking for one of the top dolphin experiences in Cozumel.

Whether you are visiting Cozumel for the day on a cruise or staying longer on the island, this program offers a wonderful way to enjoy swimming with dolphins Cozumel in a setting that is both convenient and unforgettable.

Dolphin World Online Promotions:

  • Make your reservation more than 8 days or more in advance get 5% off each person. Rebate will be mailed to you.
  • In order to get his rebate, you must call (800) 667-5524 and book this reservation over the phone or book online.
  • If you book online, you will need to email us and state, you would like to get the rebate.  Our email address, dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com

Redemption Instructions

Upon arrival, please proceed to check-in window, present your dolphin program confirmation number or your last name, which you will receive after making your reservation via email or text.

  • Confirmation number is a must for entrance.
  • You do not need to have a printed voucher.
  • All customers/participants are required to sign liability waivers before participating in this activity.

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:

Where is Dolphin Discovery in Cozumel island?

We are inside Chankanaab Natural Park. The park is located at the 9.6 km of the southern coastal highway, only 15 minutes from San Miguel, Cozumel.

If I buy a dolphin program in Cozumel, will I have a free entrance to Chankanaab Park?

Yes. Our programs include park admission; feel free to enjoy all facilities.

How far is Dolphin Discovery Cozumel from the dock?

Our location is about 15 or 20 minutes from the dock.

Is there transportation from the federal dock Cozumel to Dolphin Discovery?

Take a taxi from the dock to Chankanaab National Park. The ride will be about $15 USD for 4 persons. Dolphin Discovery facilities are near the park entrance and the path is clearly marked.

How easy is to find a taxi in Cozumel?

Taxis are available at the pier. When you get to the street, you will see all the taxis lined up, you can take one from there to the park and back.

How much is Chankanaab Park entrance?

For visitors, the regular price is $21 dollars and $14 dollars per kid (3-11 years). However, Chankanaab Park entrance is totally freefor all swim with dolphins’ participants.

What can I do in Chankanaab Park besides swimming with dolphins?

Chankanaab Sea is perfect for diving and snorkeling, you will be able to practice both activities at one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. You will also be able to explore Cozumel Island by yourself.

Do I have to pay if I want to snorkel or dive?

No, the activity is free. However, if you want to rent a mask and fins, you will have to pay a $ 15 USD fee per person. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it!

What is the schedule in Chankanaab Park Cozumel?

The Chankanaab Park is opened daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

What do you recommend I should bring to Chankanaab Park in Cozumel?

We recommend you to bring tennis, bathing suit, biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, towels, cap or hat and extra money.

What is your policy on children?

Infants are considered children 1 to 5 years, whom do not pay the service, however for the Encounter program must have 1 year of age and / or life jacket must fit properly.

We consider them children 6 to 12 years, but for programs should measure 1.20 m and in the company of a paying adult or 1.40 m to perform any program alone. The children will do activities appropriate to their age and height.

What activities are carried out in each program?

Royal Swim: Foot Push, Dorsal Tow, Handshake, Kiss, Hand target, hug.

Swim Adventure: Belly Ride, Boogie push, Hug, Hand target, handshake, kiss.

Dolphin Encounter: Hand target, kiss, handshake, as well as information about the behavior and anatomy of dolphins.

How many people are in the water at the same time?

Royal Swim: 10 maximum.

Swim Adventure: 12 people maximum.

Dolphin Encounter: 15 to 20 people maximum.

How early should I arrive?

We recommend to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled time as you need to check in and receive a small induction.

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.

Do you have transportation service?

Yes, we have transportation service included for those who have a dolphin swim program (service not available for hotels in La Romana zone). Companions shall make an additional payment of 20 USD. (This service must be requested through email to customercare@dolphindiscovery.com or by phone 24 hours before the program).

How I can recognize the transportation vehicle?

All our units have the Dolphin Discovery logo, plus our staff will have distinctive uniform.

What will be the schedule of my transportation?

The timetables for your pick up and return will be scheduled at the time of your reservation.

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 and for babies one year old and up.

I am a person with disabilities, Can I participate in the programs?

People with disabilities may participate in our programs, this requires filling a format and send it via email to info@dolphindiscovery.com,  in this format is to specify the type of special attention they require and based on this information we can determine which is the best program for you and how many people will assist you.

Can I use my camera?

For security reasons, is not allowed to use cameras in the water, professional photos will be available for sale.

Can pregnant women participate?

Our programs dolphin swim Swim Adventure and Royal Swim are not allowed for pregnant women, however our Dolphin Encounter program is a great option for women with up to 5 months of pregnancy, previously signing a waiver and accompanied by another adult.

 

What if there is inclement weather?

Our programs go on rain or shine, so there are no cancellations or refunds in these cases.

 

Includes: Dolphin Encounter (non-swim) Program – A 30-minute shallow-water dolphin experience designed for guests who want a close-up interaction without a swim program. During the experience, guests can enjoy gentle, memorable interaction time with a dolphin in a more relaxed setting. This program is a great option for non-swimmers and families. Admission to Chankanaab National Park is included, along with the Sea Lion Show and access to park facilities including Mayan exhibits, beach, pool, lockers, showers, and restrooms. $109 Adult/Child Book Now!

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Prices from....
  • Adult Participant$109
  • Child Participant$109
  • Adult Observer$29
  • Child Observer$20
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Reservation Office Hours

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

Online Reservations

Email or Live Chat

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