Cabanas, photo packages, etc. Decisions, decisions!

[melissas77]

We are going to Discovery Cove for the first time in April and I'm having the toughest time deciding whether or not to go with the Elite Package. I love the idea of having a private cabana but I just don't know if we would actually spend time in it. Husband and kids will likely want to be in the water all day. When at water parks I do tend to enjoy finding a lounger and spending part of the day just relaxing. That being said, I know DC is not your typical "water park". I know I want to get the ultimate photo package, and I'm not sure what the cost is on that. Maybe it's not much more to upgrade form the ultimate photo package to the elite package? If that's the case, I would feel justified in booking the elite package. (Don't really care so much about the other extras involved- nice but I don't see any great value there, but maybe I'm wrong...) Any advice or thoughts on this much appreciated!

 

[Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina]

The most current list of photo package prices that I can find is on this tripadvisor thread:

http://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowTopic...package_prices_Sept_2013-Orlando_Florida.html

Ultimate Package $219
7- 6 x 8 prints (may be different or same images)
1- 4x6, 2 key rings, 2 wallets (all same image)
1 - All-image Digital Photo CD
1 - Interaction DVD**
1 - 16 x 24 poster
1 - Photo Album

Adventure Package $159
5-6x8 prints (may be different or same images)
1-4x6, 2 key rings, 2 wallets (all same image)
1 - All-image Digital Photo CD

Basic Package $89
4 - 6x8 prints
4x6 and 4 wallets (all same image)

Additional Items A la Carte / With Package
6 x 8 Print $25 / $10
4 x 6 Print 2 key rings (all same image) $25 / $10
16 x 24 Poster $35 / $25
24 x 36 Poster $45 / $35
Interaction DVD** $75 / $50
Digital Photo CD $150 / $75

**DVD video footage is only available for up to 30 days after your visit date.

A cabana-only is $175 .

The Elite Package is $359. It includes the Ultimate Photo Package ($219) and a cabana ($175), plus a buoy with personalized message delivered by a dolphin, a Discovery Cove Signature Tote Bag , and your choice of a deluxe photo frame or plush toy.

So....just by the numbers, its $35 cheaper to get the Elite Package than to purchase the ultimate photo package and the cabana separately (and then you'd get the extras on top of that).

If you wouldn't otherwise purchase the largest photo package, or if you don't want a cabana, then of course....the "worth" of the Elite package comes into question.

I think the biggest thing you need to answer is whether or not the cabana will be something you want, or something you don't.....and it will differ for each family. We love having a place to relax in the heat of the afternoon, but our visits are in the summer when the sun can get sweltering. We have also been twice before so tend to do DC at a very relaxed pace.

 

[kennedyoc487]

Thanks so much for breaking down those numbers! I am having the same debate!

 

[melissas77]

Thanks for your response!

 

[I Love Tigger]

Yes I'm also considering the various options, but don't think we would use the cabana enough as there will be only my DH and me and its our first visit.

But I do want some photos of my DH as it's his birthday treat, does anyone know if you can take your own waterproof camera in the water when you do the dolphin swim?

Thanks

Bev

 

[Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina]

But I do want some photos of my DH as it's his birthday treat, does anyone know if you can take your own waterproof camera in the water when you do the dolphin swim?

No cameras are allowed in the water during the dolphin swim. We were told it was for the dolphin's safety....so they don't think its a toy, or swallow it, etc.

If you don't want one of the packages listed above, you can always opt for just a 6 x 8 print or two of your favourite shots. But I will warn you.......those dolphin pics will suck you in. Its hard to resist getting the package with the CD because you will want them all (or you will if you are anything like me!!! ) . The in-water photographers will take individual photos of each of you kissing the dolphin, "swimming" with the dolphin, posing with the dolphin (with its mouth open, as if he or she is smiling too), then "couple" pics of the two of you together with the dolphin. We have found that the shots are excellent quality and that the photographers do a great job, too. Its sure hard to pass up such amazing memories!

 

[annabug]

We decided to get the celebration package with the cabana. If we decide on a photo package, (Probably the one listed for $159, which includes the photo CD), we will also receive 25% off of the photo package! Be sure they know you are entitled to the 25% discount when ordering your photo package if you decide not to splurge for the elite!

 

[I Love Tigger]

Thanks for your reply Gina, I suppose I should have guessed you couldn't take your camera in!

Bev