Puerto Aventuras: Dolphin Swim, Sea Lions, Manatees, & Lunch

If you’re dreaming of getting up close and personal with some of the most playful marine creatures in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the Puerto Aventuras Dolphin Discovery experience might just be your perfect day out. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed reviews, extensive itinerary, and insider insights paint a clear picture of what you can expect—whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or just seeking a magical encounter with marine life.

What draws us most to this experience? First, the opportunity to swim with dolphins for a full hour featuring iconic moves like the foot push. Second, the chance to interact closely with sea lions and manatees, animals that are rarely so accessible. And third, the well-rounded package includes a buffet meal with drinks, locker facilities, and the convenience of a location just minutes from Playa del Carmen.

A small consideration is that participants need to meet certain height requirements, and children under 3.3 feet are limited to encounter activities rather than swim programs. This makes it less ideal for really tiny tots or those with physical disabilities, so it’s worth double-checking if you or your family members fall into these categories. This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced blend of education, interaction, and relaxation—especially families and animal lovers who enjoy being in the water.

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Key Points

Authentic marine encounters with dolphins, sea lions, and manatees
Full access to facilities like lockers, showers, and restrooms
Delicious buffet lunch with two non-alcoholic drinks included
Small group experience limited to 10 participants for personalized attention
Professional photos available for purchase to capture memories
Convenient location in Puerto Aventuras, close to Playa del Carmen

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Marine Adventure

This tour offers a well-paced combination of action, education, and leisure, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive aquatic experience in the Riviera Maya. Starting with a 15-minute briefing, you’ll be prepared for your underwater adventures, which is highly appreciated as it helps build confidence and understanding before entering the water.

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Swim with Dolphins

The highlight for most is the 60-minute dolphin swim. This part of the program isn’t just about splashing around; it includes iconic dolphin tricks like the foot push, where the dolphin propels you out of the water with your feet, offering a thrill that’s both fun and awe-inspiring. Dolphins are known for their intelligence and playful nature, and you’ll get to play with them during the interaction.

Guests have reported that the dolphins stay in the water longer than in some other parks, with some reviewers noting that the time feels generous. Samantha, one reviewer, mentioned that she had previously done this activity 12 years ago and found the experience just as memorable. The guides are often praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

Close Encounters with Sea Lions and Manatees

Following the dolphin swim, you’ll get two 30-minute interactions—first with sea lions, then with gentle manatees. These animals are often highlighted as the real gems of the tour. Flavia, in her review, appreciated the chance to learn about the sea lions and get close to the rarely seen manatees.

Guests love the personalized interaction—touching, feeding, or simply observing their behaviors up close. The reviews specifically mention the knowledgeable guides who help make these moments more meaningful, sharing interesting facts about each species.

Lunch and Facilities

The buffet meal is included, offering a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy some fresh Mexican cuisine. Guests can choose two non-alcoholic beverages, which is perfect for staying refreshed after water activities. The facilities at Puerto Aventuras are clean and accessible, with lockers, showers, and restrooms available, so you can change and store your belongings comfortably.

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Additional Touches

Professional photos of your experience are available for purchase—something many guests find worthwhile to preserve memories of their marine interactions. The tour provider also offers full access to the marina area, allowing you to unwind or explore further once your activities conclude.

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How This Tour Balances Value and Experience

At $135 per person, this experience offers a lot for its price. You’re not just paying for a quick swim—you’re getting a full package: interactive animal encounters, a hearty meal, and convenience. Compared to theme parks like SeaWorld, guests note that they often get more time in the water and a more intimate setting due to the small group size.

The small group limit of 10 ensures that everyone gets attention, making the experience more personal and memorable. Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with helpful insights and friendly attitudes.

However, the tour does not include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer, or possibly book it as part of a package. Also, cameras are discouraged in the water**, so if capturing photos is important, plan to buy the professional photos offered on-site.

What Reviews Reveal About the Experience

Real travelers echo the positive aspects. Flavia called it “great to swim with manatees, dolphins and learn about the sea lion,” emphasizing the variety and quality of the interactions. Samantha, who revisited after 12 years, loved that the experience was just as memorable and highlighted the addition of the sea lion encounter as a bonus.

Paul appreciated the length of the dolphin swim—noting it was “lot longer than SeaWorld,” which many find to be a significant plus. His comment about the great food further underscores how well-rounded the experience is.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Arrive on time for your scheduled start to avoid missing the briefing and activities.
Remember to bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear.
For safety, cameras are not allowed in the water, but you can purchase professional photos afterwards.
Children must meet height requirements: over 3.9 feet to participate in the full swim, and under 3.3 feet will only do encounter activities.
Women under 5 months pregnant can participate if accompanied by an adult and signing a responsibility form.
The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women.

Summary and Who Will Love This Tour

This Puerto Aventuras Dolphin Discovery experience combines interaction, education, and relaxation, making it ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone eager for a day in the water. The small group size and professional guides contribute to a friendly, personalized vibe, while the variety of creatures makes each moment exciting.

The full-day access to facilities and the buffet lunch add to the value, ensuring you’re comfortable and well-fed after your aquatic adventures. If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized day that balances fun and learning, this tour delivers.

It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate more extensive time with dolphins and want to interact with sea lions and manatees in a safe, controlled environment. Just keep in mind the height and age restrictions, and plan your transportation accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to and from Puerto Aventuras.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including briefing, water activities, and lunch.

Can I buy photos of my experience?
Yes, professional photos are available for purchase on-site, capturing your moments with the dolphins, sea lions, and manatees.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, and cash for souvenirs or extras. Cameras are not allowed in the water.

Are children allowed to participate?
Children over 3.9 feet can join the full swim, while those between 3.3 and 3.9 feet must be accompanied by two paying adults. Infants under 3.3 feet will only do encounter activities.

Is the experience suitable for pregnant women?
Women less than 5 months pregnant can participate in the encounter activities if accompanied by an adult and after signing a responsibility form. It’s not suitable for women beyond this stage.

Are there any physical or health restrictions?
Guests with health conditions or disabilities should contact the provider beforehand for full details. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I participate if I have a physical disability?
This depends on the specific disability. It’s best to check with the local partner before booking.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Spanish.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how much kids enjoy the interactions, and the setting is safe for families.

This marine adventure in Puerto Aventuras offers a chance to connect with some of the most fascinating sea creatures in a friendly, well-organized setting. It balances fun, education, and comfort, making it a top choice for travelers seeking an interactive aquatic experience in Riviera Maya.