Discovery Cove???

[acornell2]

Has anyone done Discovery Cove in Orlando? What did you think of it? Would you do it again?

We are going in December and were planning on a side trip to Marineland (on the Atlantic coast) to do a dolphin encounter. However, we worked out the prices, and for my daughter and I do get the full package at DC and hubby and 2 year old son just to get into DC, it really wouldn't cost much more than a side trip to Marineland (adding up a rental car, hotel, food, etc...plus the Marineland encounter is very short whereas DC is all day).

I REALLLLLLLY want to try DC, but I'd love some reviews first! Please tell me about your experience!

Thanks!

Stacey

 

[Annette_VA]

Check out the SeaWorld/Discovery Cove forum - tons of info there
http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=30&f=32

 

[Hef4545]

We went to Discovery Cove last year. It was a very beautiful place, well organized and the lunch that is included had lots of choices. You are supplied with a snorkel and mask which you get to keep. It is expensive for one day but they limiit the park capacity so it not crowded. There is plenty to keep you busy. I went with my DS who was 13, my DN who was 16 and my DH. We closed the park, we were having such a nice time. They have a lagoon that you can swim in with all kinds of beautiful fish and stingrays. They have a lazy river you can float in or scuba. The dolphin experience lasts 30 minutes. You are placed in groups with your family of about 8 people and a trainer. You have the option of a vest or a wet suit which they supply. (Water is cold and we were there in August) They have the dolphin show themselves off and describe how they communicate and things like that. They let you give the dolphin commands, kisses and then finally you swim out and the dolphin brings you back to shore. They take all kinds of pictures which you can buy afterward. This can be very expensive.
It was a wonderful experience and a very nice day in a controlled environment.
Yes I would do it again.
Get there early so you can secure a good spot with an umbrella. It gets hot in the direct sun. There are plenty of chairs but not all in the shade. You will want to be near the water so you can comfortably watch your 2 year old. I do not think I remember seeing anything specific to a childrens section.
There is actually a Discovery Cove discussion on these boards under Sea World. Very helpful.
Lots of information.

 

[alloyd1170]

We were there just after it opened and loved it. You will be given a time slot for your dolphin swim and have to watch a short video just before that. We lucked out and had an earlier slot, then afterwards checked out the other laggoons and shops before leaving. Do keep in mind that temps in Dec can be chilly, and that water is COLD!! for the dolphins. You are given a shortie wetsuit (you arms and legs are only partially covered). Mine was too big so my body couldnt heat the water as it kept swishing around. You have to wear one as it also provides floatation. The place was very clean, not overly crowded (only line we waited in was to check in and that was right when it opened), and the food was reasonably priced. They had tons of sea life merchandise too, which I love.

alison