Tour Details

The Dolphin Encounter at Chankanaab Marine Park

This Chankanaab Dolphin Encounter is a great option for guests of all ages looking to enjoy an up-close experience with these fascinating marine mammals in Cozumel. Set within the beautiful surroundings of Chankanaab National Marine Park, this program offers a fun and educational introduction to dolphins in a safe and controlled environment.

Your experience begins with a 15-minute orientation led by a professional trainer, where you will learn about dolphin anatomy, behavior, and how they communicate. You'll then enter the water wearing a provided life jacket and step onto a submerged platform, where the water is approximately waist-deep for most adults.

During your encounter, you will interact with one dolphin and take part in a variety of guided activities. These may include a dolphin welcome, observing dolphin sounds and vocalizations, learning about their fins and anatomy, and experiencing behaviors such as dolphin camouflage, a swim-by, a dolphin kiss, a fin shake, and responding to a hand target. The program also shares an important environmental conservation message and concludes with a dolphin farewell.

The program includes approximately 30 minutes in the water within a total duration of about 45 minutes, with a maximum of 10 guests per platform to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience.

As part of your visit, you will also enjoy a 10-minute manatee meet and greet, offering a calm and educational opportunity to observe these gentle marine animals up close.

Your tour ticket includes admission to Chankanaab National Marine Park. Guests can arrive at any time and make use of the facilities at the park. The park offers a beach, swimming pool, and snorkel area. Restrooms and showers are available. Beach chairs and snorkel gear can be rented. There is a restaurant offering food and drinks for sale. On most days, you can catch a thrilling Sea Lion Show. Be sure to check the schedule when you arrive for shows on that day. Explore the Chankanaab National Marine Park and encounter its amazing wildlife on this fun Cozumel shore excursion!

Please note: On the platform, guests will take part in an educational briefing followed by close-up interactions such as a dolphin kiss, fin shake, and other guided behaviors. The experience lasts approximately 45 minutes, including about 30 minutes in the water, with a maximum of 10 guests per platform and one dolphin. Admission to Chankanaab National Marine Park is included, along with a 10-minute manatee meet and greet, access to a sea lion presentation, and use of the park's facilities, including the pool and beach areas. Guests ages 60-79 may participate in all dolphin programs provided they are fully independent, have no medical or mobility limitations, and can swim unassisted. Guests ages 80 and over may participate in the Dolphin Encounter only; other interactive dolphin programs are not permitted.