Cozumel: Dolphin Royal Swim and Manatee Interaction

If you’re dreaming of hanging out with dolphins and manatees on your Cozumel trip, this tour offers a chance to get up close and personal with these gentle marine creatures. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an experience packed with memorable moments.

What we love most? The chance to hug a dolphin and foot push in the Royal Swim program, the beautiful setting of Chankanaab Park with its lush surroundings, and the VIP area offering an open bar and buffet lunch. One thing to consider is that photos are not included and can be quite pricey if you want to keep a record of your encounter.

This experience suits travelers who love marine life, enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and value good guides and small group settings. Families with children over 3.9 feet tall, or anyone looking for a memorable, interactive marine experience, will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Interactive marine experience with dolphins and manatees
• Includes snorkeling and beach time for a well-rounded day
• VIP amenities like an open bar and buffet lunch add value
• Small group experience enhances personal attention
• Good for kids over 3.9 feet tall, but not for pregnant women or babies under 1 year
• Price of $169 offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Cozumel Dolphin Royal Swim and Manatee Encounter

The tour is a blend of marine interaction and leisure, designed to give travelers a taste of both excitement and tranquility. It begins with a 40-minute session in the water with two dolphins, during which you’ll experience the famous foot push—a hands-down highlight. This is not just a swim but an active, playful interaction that leaves most guests smiling ear to ear. The manatee interaction, lasting about 10 minutes, is a quieter, more peaceful experience, giving you a chance to connect with these gentle creatures in a shallow, natural environment.

After your aquatic adventures, you get access to the VIP area, where a buffet lunch and unlimited drinks await. The VIP lounge, with its pool, lockers, showers, and restrooms, ensures comfort after your activities. Plus, you’re granted entry to Chankanaab National Park, a beautiful spot full of natural beauty, perfect for relaxing or exploring further.

What to Expect During the Tour

The itinerary revolves around engaging with marine mammals and enjoying the scenic surroundings. The Dolphin Royal Swim is the core experience, designed to be both fun and educational. Trainers, often fluent in both English and Spanish, guide you through each step, making sure everyone understands the process. It’s limited to small groups of 10, so expect personalized attention and less crowding.

Post-dolphin swim, you’ll visit Chankanaab Park, a site known for its stunning lagoons and lush greenery. Here, snorkelers can explore the shallow waters—though snorkel gear is not included in the package, and you’d need to bring your own or rent on-site. Reviewers mention the park’s diversity of sea life and natural beauty as a highlight, making it a perfect spot for some light snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach.

The Genuine Value of This Tour

When considering the $169 price tag, this tour provides more than just the dolphin encounter. The access to VIP amenities—including a buffet lunch and open bar—adds a touch of luxury, especially given the overall length of the activity (about 50 minutes). Reviewers like Jennifer and Tracy emphasize that their experiences felt exclusive and well-organized, with Jennifer noting, “We really got amazing treatment,” and Tracy calling it “one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

However, some reviewers point out that photos with the dolphins are not included, and additional costs can add up—$40 MXN for a small digital photo or up to $190 MXN for all images. Also, changing schedules unexpectedly, as Anthony experienced, can cause a bit of a rush if you’re on a tight cruise timetable.

The Experience with Guides and Staff

The success of this tour often hinges on the guides and trainers, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Reviewers mention trainers changing swim times courteously and providing clear instructions, which greatly enhances the overall experience. The small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, allowing for more personal interactions.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Downside and Practicalities

While most reviews are positive, a few practical considerations include the expense of photos and the timing flexibility—the schedule can shift slightly, requiring travelers to be flexible. Also, since cameras are not allowed during the dolphin session, capturing memories must be planned accordingly, perhaps by purchasing the digital photos offered on-site.

Participants should also be aware of height restrictions (3.9 feet or taller) and that pregnant women or babies under 1 year are not suitable for this activity. The $50 MXN activity tax is an additional fee payable on-site.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re after a meaningful dolphin encounter combined with some relaxation, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a small-group experience in an idyllic setting. The snorkeling and beach time add variety, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a full day of activity and leisure.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an engaging, well-rounded day combining marine life with luxury amenities. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and stunning natural environment make it a standout choice for those who want authentic interaction without feeling overwhelmed.

The price of $169 reflects a package that balances adventure, relaxation, and a touch of luxury, especially with the VIP perks. It’s an experience that most travelers will cherish, especially if you love animals and natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for animal lovers eager to hug dolphins or spend time with manatees in a natural setting. It suits families with older children, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a personalized, memorable outing. If you value small groups and professional guides, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

FAQs

Are cameras allowed during the dolphin swim? No, cameras are not permitted during the swim, though you can purchase digital photos afterward if desired.

How long does the dolphin interaction last? The Royal Swim program lasts approximately 40 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for the manatee interaction, totaling about 50 minutes.

Is there a minimum height requirement? Yes, participants must be at least 3.9 feet tall to participate in the Royal Swim activities.

What is included in the price? The tour includes the dolphin Royal Swim, manatee interaction, VIP access with a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and entrance to Chankanaab Park.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women or babies? Yes, pregnant women and children under 1 year are not suitable for this activity.

What additional costs should I expect? Photos with the dolphins are not included in the base price and can cost between $40 MXN and $190 MXN depending on what you choose.

This tour offers a compelling combination of marine encounters, natural beauty, and VIP comfort. It’s a fantastic pick for travelers seeking a hands-on dolphin experience in a stunning setting, with enough variety to enjoy a full day on Cozumel.

You can check availability for your dates here: