Dolphin Island Park
Swim with dolphins on a floating park off Bávaro
Overview
Dolphin Island Park offers a unique twist on the marine encounter experience — instead of visiting animals in a traditional park, you take a boat ride out to a floating platform in the turquoise Atlantic Ocean waters off Bavaro Beach. Here, in a natural ocean setting, you can swim with dolphins, interact with sea lions, and snorkel among tropical fish.
The open-ocean setting gives the experience a more natural feel compared to land-based marine parks. The platform is anchored in a protected area of calm, clear water, providing a safe environment while maintaining the feeling of being immersed in the Atlantic Ocean. It's one of Punta Cana's most popular family-friendly activities.
Experiences Available
Dolphin Island Park offers several encounter packages:
- Dolphin Encounter: An introductory interaction from a platform where you touch, feed, and learn about bottlenose dolphins
- Dolphin Swim: A deeper experience where you swim alongside dolphins in the open water, including the famous "dorsal fin ride"
- Sea Lion Encounter: Interact with friendly sea lions — a great option for younger children
- Snorkeling: Explore the natural reef around the platform with provided snorkel gear
- Shark and Ray Swim: Swim among sharks and manta rays on the platform
Most visitors combine two or more encounters for a full morning of marine experiences.
Getting There
Dolphin Island Park is accessed by boat from the Bavaro Beach area:
- Meeting point: Guests are typically picked up from their Punta Cana or Bavaro resort and transported to the departure dock
- Boat ride: A short 10-15 minute boat ride takes you to the floating platform
- Hotel pickup: Pickup from Bávaro and Punta Cana hotels is included; Cap Cana and Bayahibe pickups carry an extra transport charge
Book through your hotel tour desk, the park's website, or third-party excursion providers for the best rates.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does Dolphin Island Park cost?
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The operator lists US$120 for the Dolphin Experience, US$155 for the Action program and US$195 for the Royal Swim, with discounted online prices at times. Prices typically include hotel transfers, life jackets, and basic equipment.
Is Dolphin Island Park suitable for children?
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Yes, it's very family-friendly. The operator sets minimum heights rather than ages: 90 cm for the Experience, 110 cm for the Action program and 120 cm for the Royal Swim. An adult must accompany and swim with children under 120 cm on the Experience. Life jackets are provided for all water activities.
Is it safe to swim with dolphins?
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The interactions are supervised by trained handlers at all times. The dolphins are accustomed to human interaction and the encounters are designed with safety as a priority. Life jackets are provided and the water in the enclosed area is calm.
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