Bahama Adventure at Dolphin Encounters

There are a variety of attractions and activities to partake of when visiting the Bahamas. When my family and I stopped in Nassau for the day while on our Disney Cruise, we decided to spend the day on Blue Lagoon Island at Dolphin Encounters.

Typically, I am not a fan of attractions in which animals are put on display out of their natural habitat for the enjoyment of humans. However, I discovered after speaking to one of the owners that this is not the case at Dolphin Encounters. This family owned operation came into existence in 1989 when two dolphins were rescued from an aquarium that was closing in the Bahamas.

Background

The family then acquired 6 more dolphins and eventually relocated to their current facility on Blue Lagoon Island. The dolphins have a large natural habitat of over 3 acres and in some areas there are depths of 25 feet to allow for ample movement of these majestic creatures.  The habitat is currently home to 18 bottlenose dolphins (most of which have been born at the facility). In 2006 Dolphin Encounters opened their doors to 6 California sea lions that lost their home at the Marinelife Oceanarium in Gulfport, Mississippi due to Hurricane Katrina.

Experience

My family and I were impressed with the facility as soon as we arrived by boat. The island is beautiful and the waters which include the dolphin habitats are crystal clear. Our first stop after disembarking the boat was to a covered shelter area in which we sat on benches to learn about bottlenose dolphins. Not only were we educated about the anatomy, likes and dislikes of dolphin. We were also involved in a discussion of how humans can protect dolphin habitats. The interactive “lesson” lasted about 25 minutes and was very informative as well as interesting.

After learning about the dolphins, we were ready to have an “encounter” with one.  We headed to a floating platform were a trainer was waiting. After a brief review of some rules, we were allowed to get into the water with the dolphin. Everyone had a chance to pet, feed, kiss and even dance with the dolphin. We all were in awe of how smart the dolphin was and how social it was. My 5 year old daughter loved dancing with the dolphin and said that its skin “felt like velvet”.

For those that are a bit more adventurous, Dolphin Encounters also offers a swimming experience with dolphins.

Sea Lion encounters are also available in which individuals can learn about and interact with a sea lion.

Extras

In addition to the excellent opportunities for animal interaction, Dolphin Encounters also provides guests a beautiful beach area to relax or play on. With the purchase of an animal encounter, participants can have access to the private lagoon beach and facilities either before or after their animal program. For an additional charge water sports, lunch and drinks are available as well.

An excursion to Blue Lagoon Island is a great way to spend a day in the Bahamas. It is an amazing experience to interact with friendly marine animals while learning about them.

For more information about Dolphin Encounters, visit their website at www.dolphinencounters.com