Dolphin Connection

We decided to visit the Dolphin Connection on a last-minute whim and opted for the dockside experience since our child was too young to enter the water. The experience was absolutely amazing as they had seven dolphins. We had the opportunity to interact with Dolphin Maya, who was not only friendly but also incredibly well-trained. They offer various packages, and I've included a snapshot for your reference. While it's a bit on the expensive side for a family outing, it's a truly unforgettable experience. One thing to note is that they have a strict policy against bringing phones, jewelry, or mobile devices inside, so be sure to leave those behind. The package also includes access to numerous photos that you can download from the cloud for up to 30 days. The facility offers ample parking and is conveniently located within a resort, so making a reservation is highly recommended.

TLDR: ABSOLUTELY AWESOME! WOW! What else can I say! Long review for a good reason... My wife and I went here to celebrate our 36th anniversary together as it was always something we wanted to do. We picked a time after school had started in the US so we would have fewer families competing for our time and attention during our visit. We looked at several other dolphin encounters and decided on Dolphin Connection at Hawk's Cay after visiting the 3 closest venues. So why Dolphin Connection? It came down to a few things... First, the site itself was gorgeous, located on the ocean side of the Keys, with beautiful blue waters inside a very upscale resort. Secondly, on our exploratory visit, the staff we met was fantastic, with Michele taking time to explain the various options, discuss the dolphins and trainers, and let us know about the various programs. Finally, the dolphin lagoon offered deeper water and an expanded environment for the dolphins that looked more fun and inviting for both us and the dolphins. During our visit we were the only couple attending the Royal Swim and we were simply blown away by the experience. Our Trainer Emily was cordial, professional, knowledgeable, fun, entertaining and a true professional and marine conservator. We learned so VERY much during.our encounter about these amazing mammals! We shared a bunch of behaviors and interactions with our dolphin guests Maya and Indie (the dolphins) and the hour passed so quickly. As we were leaving I noticed my face hurt from smiling so much, ha! The other thing we loved was that we had a dedicated photographer with us to capture our encounter and the photos were included with the cost of our swim. Shelly (our photographer) gave us some tremendous tips before we got in the water that not only made our shots better, but made the encounter one we'll never forget -thank you, Shelley! If you want to swim with the dolphins and really get to know them, go to Dolphin Connection. Please also visit some of the other dolphin conservation sites to support their efforts, but if you want to get in the water, this is THE ONE. It should be noted that this is not a strenuous activity, but one that is paced to match your ability and enthusiasm. There was a family next to us in a separate lagoon doing a platform encounter with 2 year old and 4 old year old children. (We are in our 60's and enjoy snorkeling and water time). The facility is secure and a call to the staff the day before or morning of your visit will give you an idea of the water conditions, recommended gear, etc. You'll want a pair of flops or aqua shoes for the dock, but will take them off for the in-water experience. Buoyancy vests are provided - a tip: get a very snug fit so they don't ride up on you in the water! We're already planning a trip back for next year - don't miss this one if you're in the middle Keys!

The location, picture’s & wonderful trainer Katrina made our experience AMAZING. We met Maia & Indie their only two females in their program. They maximized the time & experience. Definitely worth every penny of the Royal Swim & the photographer was included. We had so much fun & I think the dolphins did too. They seemed well cared for.

One of the best experiences I ever did , im super recommend the best therapeutic, happily, funny , my heart was literary melting !! Im recommend to do dolphins trainer for a day it’s just 100 dólares more and you get 3 hours whit the dolphins ! They even make treaks and follow instructions by you ! You will be at the end of se encounter one more of the trainers an can make a perform tricks in front of the family . I posted all photos on Instagram @its_alfre2 go check for references !!!!!

We decided to visit the Dolphin Connection on a last-minute whim and opted for the dockside experience since our child was too young to enter the water. The experience was absolutely amazing as they had seven dolphins. We had the opportunity to interact with Dolphin Maya, who was not only friendly but also incredibly well-trained. They offer various packages, and I've included a snapshot for your reference. While it's a bit on the expensive side for a family outing, it's a truly unforgettable experience. One thing to note is that they have a strict policy against bringing phones, jewelry, or mobile devices inside, so be sure to leave those behind. The package also includes access to numerous photos that you can download from the cloud for up to 30 days. The facility offers ample parking and is conveniently located within a resort, so making a reservation is highly recommended.

TLDR: ABSOLUTELY AWESOME! WOW! What else can I say! Long review for a good reason... My wife and I went here to celebrate our 36th anniversary together as it was always something we wanted to do. We picked a time after school had started in the US so we would have fewer families competing for our time and attention during our visit. We looked at several other dolphin encounters and decided on Dolphin Connection at Hawk's Cay after visiting the 3 closest venues. So why Dolphin Connection? It came down to a few things... First, the site itself was gorgeous, located on the ocean side of the Keys, with beautiful blue waters inside a very upscale resort. Secondly, on our exploratory visit, the staff we met was fantastic, with Michele taking time to explain the various options, discuss the dolphins and trainers, and let us know about the various programs. Finally, the dolphin lagoon offered deeper water and an expanded environment for the dolphins that looked more fun and inviting for both us and the dolphins. During our visit we were the only couple attending the Royal Swim and we were simply blown away by the experience. Our Trainer Emily was cordial, professional, knowledgeable, fun, entertaining and a true professional and marine conservator. We learned so VERY much during.our encounter about these amazing mammals! We shared a bunch of behaviors and interactions with our dolphin guests Maya and Indie (the dolphins) and the hour passed so quickly. As we were leaving I noticed my face hurt from smiling so much, ha! The other thing we loved was that we had a dedicated photographer with us to capture our encounter and the photos were included with the cost of our swim. Shelly (our photographer) gave us some tremendous tips before we got in the water that not only made our shots better, but made the encounter one we'll never forget -thank you, Shelley! If you want to swim with the dolphins and really get to know them, go to Dolphin Connection. Please also visit some of the other dolphin conservation sites to support their efforts, but if you want to get in the water, this is THE ONE. It should be noted that this is not a strenuous activity, but one that is paced to match your ability and enthusiasm. There was a family next to us in a separate lagoon doing a platform encounter with 2 year old and 4 old year old children. (We are in our 60's and enjoy snorkeling and water time). The facility is secure and a call to the staff the day before or morning of your visit will give you an idea of the water conditions, recommended gear, etc. You'll want a pair of flops or aqua shoes for the dock, but will take them off for the in-water experience. Buoyancy vests are provided - a tip: get a very snug fit so they don't ride up on you in the water! We're already planning a trip back for next year - don't miss this one if you're in the middle Keys!