Dolphin encounter

[Jhondy]

Can anyone tell me about dolphin encounters…I’m specifically looking in Grand Cayman but I figure most dolphin encounters are probably the same. How are they for a just turned 4 year old? Is any swimming involved! Neither I or my 4 year old can swim (although my 4 year old will start lessons soon). Is dolphin encounter something we can do or do you need to know how to swim?

 

[OKW Lover]

The answer certainly depends on the venue. We did the dolphin encounter in GC many years ago and it wasn't necessary to swim. However, I'm not sure a 4YO would like the actual event. Of course you know your child best.

 

[DWillowBay]

We did Dolphin Encounter in Grand Cayman in 2017. No swimming....just standing in the pool. It was a great experience for us. If your child would enjoy petting / interacting with a dolphin.....it's a great port adventure.

 

[msmama]

We did the dolphin encounter in GC right before COVID hit. You may have to hold your child, depending on their height, I want to say the water was about waist height on me (but I'm short). Everyone has to wear life jackets the place provides.

Because many of the people in our group didn't know this, the dolphin water is ocean water, which means there can be other fish in the water. One family was so freaked out by the tiny fish swimming by, they left the encounter early.

We did have a family with two small children in our group (I'd guess 4 or under) and they were held the whole time.

 

[Flip flops in winter]

We just did this one last week in GC. My youngest is 8 and could stand on the platform but was up to his shoulders (everyone has to wear a life jacket). It was a lot of fun but if my kids were any younger I don't think it would have been as enjoyable. You are definitely hands-on in the water with the dolphins. No swimming with the encounter option though.

 

[Jhondy]

Thanks everyone for the feedback. Sounds like this may not be the best option for a 4 year old. I appreciate the feedback so I don’t book something that wouldn’t be good for her!