The dolphin has long been considered an extraordinarily beautiful and intelligent creature and after a visit to Dolphin Cove, I can understand why.
The trainers at Dolphin Cove walked us through everything we needed to know, from getting us into our life jackets, introducing us to their dolphins and finally helping us to interact with them. I could see straight away the passion and enthusiasm all the staff at Dolphin Cove have for these animals.
The staff who chatted to us were friendly and helpful; they were able to provide all sorts of fascinating information about the animals at Dolphin Cove.
As we waited for our turn, absorbing the idyllic view of the ocean, I saw it was nothing but smiles and laughter from the enthralled crowd. Dolphin Cove is clearly a place of happiness; with not a frown in sight.
We got to experience the ‘Ultimate Swim’ package, one of three packages on offer at Dolphin Cove, and their most popular programme.
The two stunning creatures we had the pleasure of meeting were Luna and Lucea; 12 year old bottlenose dolphins. After stroking the two dolphins, receiving a kiss and giving one back, I realised how beautiful these creatures are up close.
The dolphins seemed to possess a sense of humour as they sang, clapped and splashed us, and their perpetual smiles were infectious.
We started with the Dorsal Tow. The two friendly dolphins took me for a swim in the Lagoon; I held on to their fins as they showed off their strength and pulled me though the water. And with 6.7 million gallons of water in their natural lagoon, the dolphins and I had plenty of room.
The Foot Push was next. I couldn’t help feeling slightly nervous as I wondered how an earth two dolphins could lift me into the air using just their noses on the balls of my feet.
Nevertheless, I got into the position our trainer had instructed; floating on my belly with my arms out and my legs straight out behind me.
The sensation was magical. I felt them pressing on the balls of my feet and I started to glide effortlessly across the surface of the water, the sea rushed by me as I gathered speed and I couldn’t help but grin for ear to ear.
I noticed the photographer snapping away, and because of the rush of water, my bikini bottoms had started to slip so with one hand I made sure to keep hold of them; that picture would have definitely made the family album!
The dolphins then pushed up on my feet and I shot up into the air, like superman. The next minute they were gone and I splashed back down into the sea - a truly great experience that you will want to repeat again and again.
I was very reluctant to leave the water but after remembering what else Dolphin Cove has to offer I realised my day was far from over.
After a brief shower we were shown the fascinating touch tank, where you can interact with a variety of animals from the deep. Captain Don introduced us to starfish, conch, the spider crab, sea anemones, urchins and jellyfish. This is a great opportunity to get up close and even hold the animals; I did steer clear of the jellyfish and spider crab however.
If you are spending the whole day at Dolphin Cove, which is very easily done with the amount of activities they have on offer, then you may start to feel a little peckish. Not to worry, there is a snack bar which serves ice cold drinks, fruity smoothies, pizzas, chips, hotdogs, sweets and snack bars.
Eat your lunch on the tables that look out over the natural saltwater lagoon and watch the dazzling dolphins showing off their jumps and dives; the view couldn’t be more perfect.
Our last adventure for the day was a walk through the natural Cayman jungle which is home to nine extremely beautiful birds. Meet Gasper and Zuzu; umbrella cockatoos, who love nothing more than to be held and to pose for photographs.
Talk to a range of Macaws including the shy but quirky Arvie, and the playful and friendly Peque.
Finally, fall in love with the lovebirds. Enter their natural enclosure and watch as these lovable little birds will land on your head, shoulders and nibble food gently from your hands.
This was a once in a lifetime, unforgettable experience, and with the photographers on hand to capture it all, I’ll be able to relive the experience again and again.
For more information, call 946-3396 or visit
dolphincove.ky.