dolphins in depth tour @ living seas

[jenjen212]

anyone ever do this? what was your experience?

do you get to go in the water with the dolphins??

thanks...

jen

 

[Mister Disney]

We just got back a couple of weeks ago and took the Dolphins at Depth tour the very first day of our arrival.

What a GREAT way to start off vacation!

Jason was our guide and he was on the college intern program. He was from Idaho and is majoring in animal science. He was super. Very well informed and well spoken.

Our tour had 6 other people on it for a total of 8 of us.

Our tour began with about an hour and half or so of information on dolphins, their lives, habitats etc.

We then were brought down to the locker rooms to change and "marched" through the Living Seas, to our appointment with the 2 dolphins that call the Living Seas home.

The interaction with the dolphins was structured and controled. We were divided into 2 groups of 4 and got to hold and "massage" the dolphins. It was a great experience!

The cost is currently $150 pp with all of the money being donated to the Disney Wildlife Conservation fund. There is nothing better than doing something so exciting and having all the money given to the Conservation fund.

 

[Tigger_Magic]

This is a great tour. You get to go behind the scenes at Living Seas and see how they care for the creatures there. There is a lot of information about dolphins, which is presented in interesting, creative ways. You learn about how they study dolphin behavior and communication. Then you "suit up" in a wet suit (they have a size to fit anyone... because if they can fit me they can fit anyone!). After a bit of a walk, you end up at the top of the Living Seas.

You walk into the water (it's a really brisk 70 degrees, which at first feels really cool, but you get used to it quickly). Two trainers are there and they invite the dolphins to come over. It's all voluntary on the dolphins part.

You spend about 30 mins. standing on a platform interacting with the dolphins. You get your picture taken with your arms around one; you get to direct them to do some tricks and there's a time to give them a rub-down. Alas, too quickly, it's over and you head back to the locker room to change, shower and get dressed.

Unlike Discovery Cove, you do not swim with the dolphins. You remain standing on the platform the entire time. However, it is great interaction and a great experience.

At the end they have sodas, and then you get a t-shirt and your picture. It's about a 3 1/2 hour tour. I think it's $140, but that goes to the Disney Wildlife Fund.

Highly recommended!!

 

[susie2]

hi, we would love to do this tour next year, does anyone know how far in advance you can book this, thanks susie2

 

[Mister Disney]

hi, we would love to do this tour next year, does anyone know how far in advance you can book this, thanks susie2

Currently, my understanding is that you can book it up to a year in advance.

 

[mking624]

My husband and I did this tour last June and it was just an amazing experience!!! Mister Disney explained it very well (BTW, Mister Disney...I'm so glad to hear you had a great time...I LOVE your pic!!!). My only additional comments would be that the picture you take with the dolphin can be done individually or another person you came with. My husband and I chose to do individual shots (actually *I* chose it...I wanted the dolphin all to myself! LOL). At the end of the tour, you're given a tshirt that says "Disney's Dolphins in Depth" and has their logo on it. The cost per person is $150, but if you get the Birbaum's Guide to WDW, there is a 15% off coupon in there that's good for up to 4 people.

 

[mking624]

I forgot to add...the tour only takes 8 people each time and it only runs once a day, Mondays through Fridays (in the morning), so you WILL need to make a reservation early.

 

[Beachangel]

I've done "Dolphins In Depth" twice and highly recommend it. Just did it with my extended family last month. Everyone loved it. Definitely book early since only 8 spots are available. It sells out quick. Discounts are available with your AP, Disney Visa, DVC and I think AAA membership.

 

[susie2]

Currently, my understanding is that you can book it up to a year in advance.

thanks mister disney, susie2