Yet another Discovery Cove Question

[mkingdon]

We had decided not to do DC this year, as that was the sensible thing to do.

However.....not one to go against my natural non sensible ways, I am now thinking of surprising my DW and DDs with a trip to the dolphins. Thank you Mr VISA.

My one concern is that my DDs are 6 and 8. They are both very strong swimmers, but I'm not too convinced they will be too keen on the whole mask and snorkel thing.

Has anyone talken kids of these ages, and if so, how did they get on?

I know the dolphin swim itself will be fantastic, but I don't want to go to DC *just* to do that, and not be able to fully enjoy the reef swim etc.

Is it worth waiting a couple of years so they will get more out of it?

Enough waffle, what do you think?

BTW, I have checked the DC web site and they have lots of availability for when we are there.

Thanks

Craig

 

[vernon]

I've found usually kids of that age, you can't get the damn masks off them LOL. The snorkle can sometimes be a little more difficult, but usually the kids will work round it by just using the mask and taking gulps of air when needed. With the dolphin swim you don't need the snorkle as most of the time you're treading water, taking a breathe and ducking under the water is more efficient.

 

[Madjock]

Our 8 yr old took to snorkelling 'like a fish to water' (no pun was intended ) she had no problem with it at all. She loved swimming with the fish and feeding them.

Annmarie

 

[Katies Dad]

Hi, we`ve just bought Katie aged 6 a Speedo Junior Mask & Snorkle Set, from Millets it was £6.99 its pink and also includes pink sparkley money holder to wear round your neck. (they are £9.99 in JJB) They have blue ones for boys.

She is a good little swimmer and loves to go under water with her goggles, but to get used to the mask etc she is practicing in the bath. Just to get a feel for it.

Hope this may be of help.

 

[signtalker]

You dont need to use snorkels or masks if you dont want.

Okay so its not easy trying to look at the fish underwater without them, but I didnt use them once when i was there(cant bear the claustraphobic feeling of anything on my face!!) . I had a great day without them .

You dont need either for the dolphin swim.
Do it, and have a great time.

jules

 

[SidB]

I'd be interested in how more timid 8 year olds cope with the dolphins. They are quite large and playful after all.

My 8 year old is a fairly good swimmer, and still taking lessons. Does she need to be able to tread water ? We still have plenty of time to practise as we're not going until March next year.

 

[Madjock]

You do get taken out quite deep so yes you do need to tread water but you are given life vests/jackets. My daughter who was 8 at the time was/is actually a better and more confident swimmer than I am. I am really not keen on water even more so when its deep but I found it okay. Besides you are interacting with the Dolphin so much that you don't even really think about the water!

All the dolphin interaction takes place with the supervision of the trainer, its all pretty sedate and controlled interaction, such as stroking and kissing the dolphin, feeding them and getting them to play with their toys. You do get the opportunity to hold onto the dolphin's fin and swim back to shore with it but you wouldn't have to do this if it frightened you. I have to say that I honestly think that your daughter will be so amazed with the whole experience that she will love it and enjoy it no matter how timid she is.

Annmarie