Discovery Cove ...Planning? When to arrive?

[rapunzal]

What time should we plan to arrive? What is the best time to schedule the dophin swim? Sounds like a fantastic day? Any other information would be great?

 

[dhuba]

We I went in August we arrived a little before 8:00 a.m. and they were already checking in people. We had an 8:30 dolphin swim. I guess it would depend on what you preferred, and when you were going. If it is a little chilly in the morning, you may want to book for afternoon, so it will be a little warmer, because the water is cold in with the dolphins.

 

[halo969]

You don't get to choose what time your dolphin swim time is going to be: it is based solely on when you arrive. I know because I was at DC yesterday at 8 am and asked for an 11 am swim and they said I had to go at 9 am. That being said, if you prefer a later swim, I'd suggest arriving later. We saw people getting to DC as late as noon. Of course, you have to balance out the desire for a later swim against getting your money's worth at the park by being there early enough to have the time to experience the other pools and the bird aviary which is the best.

 

[JohnnySharp2]

You are better off getting there as early as you can, 08:00 would be best, we arrived about 09:00 and our Dolphin swim was not until 12:30.

 

[robvia]

Most people like to arrive early to get the swim out of the way, then relax the rest of the day.
The other reason you want to arrive early, is a long line forms at the snorkle station. Yes, they only let 1000 people in, but if 1000 people are trying to get their snorkle gear at the same time, you'll end up waiting. After that, everyone needs to grab a wet suit, and the medium sizes go fast. So there are many advantages to arriving early.
The water temperature is the same no matter when you go, it's cold. Take a shower with the dial turned to cold, and that's what it will feel like.