Visiting Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios Jamaica: What To Expect

Jamaica, a vibrant island in the Caribbean, is renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, reggae music, and rich cultural heritage. However, the allure of this tropical paradise extends beyond its land, reaching deep into its crystal-clear waters. Nestled on the north coast of Jamaica, Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios offers an unforgettable marine adventure. Whether you’re an animal lover, an adrenaline junkie, or simply a traveler looking for unique experiences, this natural park is a must-visit.

Why Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios is a Must-Visit

Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios is a 23-acre marine park that provides exceptional opportunities to interact with sea creatures like dolphins, sharks, and stingrays in their natural habitat. From swimming with dolphins to exploring lush jungle trails, the park’s diverse activities cater to all ages and interests.

Expert tip: Dolphin Cove is an ideal destination for families. Its child-friendly activities make it a highlight of any Jamaican vacation.

A Kaleidoscope of Activities at Dolphin Cove

1. Kayaking and Mini Boat Adventures

Unleash your adventurous spirit with a kayaking adventure at Dolphin Cove. The park offers glass-bottom kayaks that provide a unique perspective of the underwater world. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, mini boat adventures are available, allowing you to explore the coast at your leisure.

2. Snorkeling with Stingrays

Get up close and personal with friendly stingrays by snorkeling alongside them. With guides present throughout the experience, even first-time snorkelers can enjoy this activity with ease.

3. Meeting Sharks

At Dolphin Cove, you can also meet Caribbean sharks, known for their docile nature. During the Shark Encounter, you can swim with these fascinating creatures in shallow water and learn intriguing facts about them.

4. Strolling or Hiking

The expansive park offers plenty of scenic paths for strolls or hikes. As you explore, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife and discover the park’s rich flora and fauna.

5. Visiting the Beach Club

After your marine adventures, unwind at the Dolphin Cove Beach Club. Here, you can enjoy refreshing drinks, tasty snacks, and freshly brewed Jamaican coffee from the Buccaneer’s Coffee Shop.

6. Swimming with Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is the most popular activity at Dolphin Cove. The park offers a range of dolphin experiences, like the Dolphin Encounter, Swim Adventure, Dolphin Royal Swim, and the Yaaman + Dolphin Encounter. The latter combines a dolphin swim with a jitney ride, a bird aviary visit, a cooking tour, and lunch buffet, a trip to a secret Blue Hole, and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages.

7. Exploring the Jungle Trail

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With the Admission Plus package, you can embark on a jungle trail expedition. As you trek through the rugged trail, you might spot colorful birds and iguanas. The package also includes a stingray encounter, a buffet meal, drinks, and a visit to the pirate-themed Treasure Island.

8. Sliding Down the Cawabunga Water Slide

One of the most exhilarating activities at Dolphin Cove is the Cawabunga water slide. Suitable for all ages, it’s a fun-filled experience you can enjoy before or after your dolphin adventure.

Expert tip: Don’t forget to visit the Photo Center for professional photos of your Dolphin Cove adventure. These mementos are worth the purchase, as the Dolphin Cove experience is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

How to Reach Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios

Dolphin Cove is easily accessible, located approximately four kilometers from the cruise terminal at Turtle Beach Road. You can reach the park by taxi or “route taxi” if you’re staying in the northeast region of the island or arriving by cruise ship.

Expert tip: If you’re staying in the Montego Bay area, consider visiting the Dolphin Cove Montego Bay Habitat.

Dolphin Cove Jamaica — Pricing

Before visiting Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the available programs and their costs. The price of admission to Dolphin Cove starts at $49 USD for adults and $45 USD for children. However, the overall price will depend on the specific programs you choose and the number of people in your party.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs for the various activities at Dolphin Cove (all prices in USD):

• Admission Plus: From $69 (or $45 for kids)
• Shark Encounter: From $69 (or $69 for kids)
• Dolphin Encounter: From $109 (or $109 for kids)
• Dolphin Swim Adventure: From $149 (or $109 for kids)
• Dolphin Royal Swim: From $189 (or $109 for kids)

Please note that children aged 1-5 years only need to pay for the transfer to Dolphin Cove. They can participate free of charge with a paying adult (limited to one child per paying adult). Older companions who choose not to participate in the activities will still need to pay the park’s admission fee.

Expert tip: Remember to account for additional costs, like photo packages, souvenirs, lockers, transportation, and tips. These are typically not included in tour packages.

Visiting Dolphin Cove — What to Bring

When packing for Dolphin Cove, remember to bring your swimwear, sunblock, insect repellent, and dry clothes for after your aquatic adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios

Is Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios Wheelchair-Accessible?

Yes, Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios is wheelchair-accessible.

Can I Take Photos with the Dolphins?

Personal cameras are not allowed during the programs for security reasons. However, professional photos are taken during the experience, which you can purchase at the Photo Center.

Who Owns Dolphin Cove in Jamaica?

Dolphin Cove was originally the home of the Burrows family. They transformed it into a 23-acre marine park, which opened in February 2001 with four dolphins. Over the years, the park has grown in popularity and is now one of Jamaica’s top tourist attractions.

Are multiple programs with sea life available at Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios?

Yes, Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios offers a variety of programs that allow you to interact with dolphins, sharks, and other sea creatures. The availability of programs may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and visitor demand.

How old do kids have to be to participate in the dolphin swim?

Children must be eight years and older and taller than 140 cm (4’7″) to participate in the dolphin swim adventures at Dolphin Cove.

What are the Different Dolphin Cove Locations in Jamaica?

There are Dolphin Cove locations in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Moon Palace, Yaaman, and Puerto Seco, Jamaica.

How Long is the Dolphin Encounter at Dolphin Cove?

The duration of the dolphin programs at Dolphin Cove depends on which one you choose. For instance, the Dolphin Royal Swim includes a 30-minute interaction with two dolphins and a 30-minute orientation.

Can I Swim with the Dolphins at Dolphin Cove if I Can’t Swim?

All participants in the dolphin swim program at Dolphin Cove must be able to swim. Life jackets are required for all water programs.

Conclusion

Experiencing Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios Jamaica is a dream come true for many. Its warm waters and friendly marine life provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. As one of the most beloved attractions in Jamaica, it’s recommended to book your Dolphin Cove tour in advance.

If you’re dreaming of spending your vacation on pristine white sand beaches and swimming with dolphins, consider staying at a Sandals Resort. These resorts are located near the best beaches in Jamaica and offer a myriad of inclusions for an unforgettable vacation.

Remember, every journey begins with a single step. So, take that step and embark on an unforgettable marine adventure at Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios Jamaica!

For recommendations on some of the best times to visit Jamaica, you can check out our guide here.

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If you’re traveling to Jamaica alone, ensure you take all the necessary measures to keep safe. Read about how you can stay safe while visiting Jamaica. If you decide to visit any resort, be sure to tag us in your photos and videos @resortcaribbean, and follow our socials: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.