Punta Cana Dolphin Swim

Bavaro Beach Area

Swim with Dolphins in Punta Cana – An Exciting Dolphin Action Experience

Swim with Dolphins Bavaro Beach Punta Cana

Swim with dolphins in Punta Cana and enjoy the Dolphin Action Swim, featuring shallow- and deep-water interaction plus 1 exciting dolphin ride with 1 dolphin.

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

The highlight is the famous belly ride, where you hold onto the dolphin’s pectoral fins as it carries you across the water.

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

$155 Per Adult / $155 Per Child

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

– Must be 43″ inches / 3’6″/ 110 cm+

Swim With Dolphins in Punta Cana << Click to Book

Why Choose the Dolphin Action Swim?

The Dolphin Action Swim is a great choice for guests who want an exciting Punta Cana Dolphin Swim with plenty of interaction and one memorable dolphin ride.

  • Approximately 40 minutes of dolphin interaction
  • Shallow- and deep-water activities
  • 1 dolphin ride with 1 dolphin
  • Famous belly ride
  • Touch, kiss, play, and swim with a dolphin
  • Small group experience – 12 maximum
  • Resort transportation from most participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach hotels
  • Shark and ray snorkeling included

John’s Insider Tip: Have you ever thought about a dolphin’s heartbeat? During the famous belly ride, you go belly-to-belly with the dolphin across the water, and you may actually feel its heartbeat. It is a really cool experience.

If you want a little more adrenaline, check out the
Dolphin Royal Swim.
If you want something a little more mellow, the
Dolphin Experience
may be a better fit.

What Happens During Your Punta Cana Dolphin Action Swim?

1. Pickup From Your Resort

Guests staying at participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts can use the included transportation service. You may also arrive by private transfer or drive yourself.

2. Check-In & Dolphin Briefing

Before entering the water, you’ll receive a short educational presentation about dolphins, their behavior, and the safest way to interact with them.

3. Shallow-Water Dolphin Time

Start in shallow water where you can touch, kiss, pet, play, and participate in trainer-guided dolphin behaviors.

4. Deep-Water Swim

Next, move into deeper natural seawater for a more active Punta Cana Dolphin Swim experience.

5. Belly Ride With 1 Dolphin

One of the highlights is the famous belly ride with 1 dolphin. You hold onto the dolphin’s pectoral fins while traveling belly-to-belly across the water.

6. Shark & Ray Snorkeling

After your dolphin program, continue the adventure with snorkeling around sharks, rays, and tropical fish.

7. Photos & Return Trip

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 guests usually return around 12:00 PM, while afternoon guests return around 5:00 PM.

The Dolphin Action Swim in Punta Cana is a great choice for guests who want a balance of interaction, swimming, and excitement without stepping up to the more intense Royal Swim. You’ll enjoy close-up dolphin contact, shallow- and deep-water activities, and one memorable belly ride during your approximately 40-minute experience.

Punta Cana and Bavaro Beach Dolphin swims

Book Your Dolphin Action Swim << Click

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

Important: Every Swim with Dolphins in Punta Cana experience is unique. Specific dolphin rides, behaviors, and interactions may vary depending on the dolphins, trainer, and group during your session.

At least one ride with one dolphin is included, based on the dolphin’s comfort and willingness that day.

Ride options may include:

  • A single dolphin dorsal fin ride
  • A belly-to-belly ride while holding the dolphin’s pectoral fins as you glide across the water

Age & Supervision Policy

  • Guests age 17 and under must have one paid adult age 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 are available at no charge.
  • Outdoor rinse and changing rooms are available.

Facility Rules

  • Observers and companions are not permitted to enter the facility due to limited space on Dolphin Island.
  • All participants must know how to swim. If anyone in your party cannot swim, you must choose the Dolphin Family Experience (non-swim).

Bonus Activity Included

  • Snorkel and interact with nurse sharks and stingrays. Equipment is included.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 participants per dolphin session.

Available with Your Punta Cana Dolphin Swim

Your time slot includes a guaranteed Dolphin Action Swim, a short dolphin educational briefing, and round-trip transportation from participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts to the private beach and back.

Soft drinks are included, along with the boat ride to Dolphin Island and snorkeling with sharks and rays. Plan for up to 4 hours of activities from start to finish.

Note: The park is closed on Sundays.

$155 per Adult/$155 per Child

– Must be 43″ inches / 3’6″/ 110 cm+

Reserve Your Dolphin Swim Today << Click

Bávaro Beach / Punta Cana Location

Dolphin Island is located inside a private park. This location is between Bávaro Beach and Punta Cana International Airport.
MAP

Dolphin Rides in Punta Cana

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 Belly ride with 1 dolphin 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

 

Check Dolphin Swim Availability << Click to Book

John’s Insider Tip

One thing I like about the transportation around Bávaro Beach and Punta Cana is that it feels like part of the adventure. The open-air vehicle has a roof for shade, and it gives you a chance to relax, look around, and enjoy some of the local scenery on the way.

Make sure you check the resort pickup list on this page so you know if your hotel is scheduled for a morning or afternoon pickup.

If you do not see your resort listed, private transportation may still be available for an additional fee. Email me at
dolphinworldresponse@gmail.com
and I’ll be happy to help you figure out the best option.

Enjoy the ride and take in the sights along the way!

Hotel & Resort Transportation

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

Pickup times depend on your resort and the day of the week. Please check the lists below carefully to find your hotel and scheduled pickup time.

Monday to Saturday — Morning & Afternoon Pickups

Free transportation 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 usually return to their resort at approximately 12:00 PM.
Afternoon pickup guests usually return at approximately 5:00 PM.

If Your Resort Is Not Listed

If your hotel or accommodations do not appear on the pickup list, private transfer options may be available for an additional fee.

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

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

Have questions about your resort pickup? Call us at
800-667-5524.

Reserve the Bus & Your Dolphin Swim << Click to Book

Punta Cana Dolphin Action Swim FAQs

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

The Dolphin Action Swim is $155 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 Dolphin Action Swim?

Your experience includes a dolphin educational briefing, shallow- and deep-water interaction, 1 dolphin ride with 1 dolphin, boat transportation to Dolphin Island, shark and ray snorkeling, soft drinks, flotation equipment, and transportation from most participating resorts.

3. What kind of dolphin ride is included?

The Dolphin Action Swim includes at least 1 ride with 1 dolphin. The most common ride is the famous belly ride, where you hold onto the dolphin’s pectoral fins as you glide across the water.

4. Is the belly ride guaranteed?

A dolphin ride is included, but the exact ride and interaction may vary depending on the dolphin’s comfort, willingness, and the trainer’s decision that day. Ride options may include a belly-to-belly ride or a single dolphin dorsal fin ride.

5. Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes. The Dolphin Action Swim includes time in deeper water, so participants should be comfortable swimming. A flotation belt is provided. Guests who do not want to swim should choose the Dolphin Experience instead.

6. Is transportation included from my Punta Cana resort?

Yes. Transportation is included from most participating Punta Cana and Bávaro Beach resorts. Pickup days and times vary by hotel. If your resort is not listed, private transportation may be available, or you may arrange your own transportation.

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

Plan for approximately 4 hours total, including resort pickup, check-in, the dolphin briefing, your swim program, shark and ray snorkeling, photo viewing, and return transportation.

8. How long is the Dolphin Action Swim?

The Dolphin Action Swim includes approximately 40 minutes of dolphin interaction, with both shallow- and deep-water activities.

9. Can children participate in the Dolphin Action Swim?

Yes. Children who meet the participation requirements may take part. Guests age 17 and under must have one paid adult age 18+ in the water with them, with a ratio of up to 3 children per adult.

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.

For the most current pricing and package options, please speak directly with the Photo Manager on site.

11. What should I bring for my dolphin swim?

Wear or bring a bathing suit and towel. A flotation belt is provided, but wetsuits are not. You may also want to bring a change of clothes and a payment method if you plan to purchase professional photos.

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

The Dolphin Royal Swim is the premium option and includes a 2-dolphin Royal Ride, such as a double dorsal fin ride or foot push.

The Dolphin Action Swim includes approximately 40 minutes of interaction, shallow- and deep-water activities, and 1 ride with 1 dolphin, 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 Punta Cana dolphin facility is committed to responsible dolphin care, professional training, and guest education.

The health and well-being of the dolphins always come first. Trainers work with each animal based on its comfort level, willingness to participate, and individual behavior.

Because the dolphins are never forced to perform a specific behavior, the exact interaction or ride during your program may vary from one session to the next.

Certificate of Excellence

The facility has earned the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Support Dolphin Care — Book Now

 

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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