Cancun: Interactive Aquarium – Swim with Dolphins Splash

When considering a dolphin encounter during a trip to Cancun, the Interactive Aquarium’s swim with dolphins experience offers a compelling option. While we haven’t done this particular activity ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an engaging, family-friendly adventure that balances fun with education.

What’s immediately appealing is how close you can get to these intelligent creatures—playing, kissing, and learning about their behavior. The experience’s affordable price point of $119 per person offers a reasonably accessible way to add a memorable aquatic encounter to your Cancun itinerary.

That said, a potential drawback is the limited duration—usually around 20 minutes in the water—which some travelers feel is short for the price paid. Plus, the activity’s focus on photo sales can be a turnoff for those seeking a more natural, unfiltered interaction.

This kind of tour is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to interact directly with dolphins in a controlled environment. It’s perfect for those who want a safe, educational, and fun experience without venturing too far from Cancun’s hotel zone.

Good To Know

• Close Encounters: You get to physically interact with dolphins through up to 10 activities, including a kiss.
• Educational Value: The experience includes insights into dolphin physiology, behavior, and anatomy, making it informative.
• Short but Sweet: The actual swimming session lasts about 20 minutes, so manage expectations about the overall time.
• Cost Considerations: The price covers the activity, but extras like photos are costly, with reviews noting high prices.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Safety & Restrictions: No cameras or audiovisual devices allowed in the habitat for dolphin safety.

The tour kicks off with a welcome, and after check-in at Plaza La Isla Shopping Center, you’ll head into the aquarium, which is a popular spot for visitors looking to combine shopping and sightseeing. The aquarium admission is included, along with a dolphin presentation that sets the stage for your interaction.

The real highlight is the 20-minute water session with the dolphins, where you’ll participate in 10 different activities, such as a dolphin kiss, learning about their physiology, and observing their playful behavior. Guide-led explanations help deepen your understanding of these marine mammals, making it more than just a fun photo shoot.

Most reviews highlight the friendly, attentive guides—some mention their helpfulness in making guests feel comfortable and informed. For example, a visitor from the UK appreciated how the activity was well-organized and the check-in process was “easy and smooth,” which is crucial when managing a short, packed schedule.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers aquarium entry, a dolphin presentation, 10 activities, towels, lockers, and a 20-minute interaction in the water. This makes it a straightforward option without hidden costs, but it’s worth noting that transportation, food, drinks, or photos are not included. Photos can be purchased afterward, but reviews consistently mention their high cost—some suggest they’re quite expensive relative to the experience.

Important: The activity takes place in the water, so be prepared with beachwear and passport or ID. Cameras and phones are not allowed during the interaction, which some guests found inconvenient, especially those wanting to capture memories.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Feedback

Several reviewers offer valuable insights into what you can expect:

• A UK traveler was a bit disappointed, mentioning that “by the time we checked in, got changed, and had a talk about the dolphin, we had a few photos, then it finished,” noting it felt a bit rushed for the price paid. This highlights the importance of managing expectations around timing.

• Conversely, a Costa Rican visitor called it “valuable, orderly, and rewarding”, appreciating the smooth process and the engaging activities.

• The most common praise revolves around the friendly guides and the stunning views of the dolphins during their time in the water, which many agree are worth the price of admission.

• On the downside, some find the small size of the aquarium and the focus on photo sales less appealing, especially when expecting a more natural or extensive experience. One reviewer from Colombia was blunt, describing the museum as “very small” and not worth it.

What Makes This Experience Special?

This tour isn’t just about the novelty of swimming with dolphins; it’s about educating visitors and fostering a sense of connection with marine life. The activities—ranging from a dolphin kiss to learning about their behavior—are designed to be interactive and memorable.

The small group size (limited to 10) ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, which adds to the personal nature of the encounter. The friendly guides help facilitate a relaxed environment, ensuring even nervous participants feel comfortable stepping into the water.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Timing: The activity is available in the morning and afternoon, so choose a slot that fits your schedule.
• Reservations: You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if plans change.
• Duration: Expect the entire experience to last around 35 minutes, but the actual interaction is about 20 minutes.
• What to Bring: Pack beachwear, and remember to bring your passport or ID. Cameras and phones are not allowed during the water session for safety reasons.
• Extra Costs: Photos are sold separately and tend to be pricey; if capturing memories is a priority, consider budgeting accordingly.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re traveling with children or seniors, this activity is a safe and engaging way to introduce them to marine mammals. It’s perfect for families seeking a memorable experience, or couples wanting a romantic yet educational activity.

Adventure seekers who enjoy interactive encounters will love the chance to play with dolphins, while those interested in marine biology will find the explanations helpful. However, if you’re looking for a longer or more natural dolphin swim, you might need to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

The Interactive Aquarium’s swim with dolphins experience in Cancun offers a delightful blend of education, fun, and personal connection with these intelligent animals. While the short duration and high photo costs are points of consideration, the friendly guides, intimate group size, and the chance to be in the water with dolphins make this a worthwhile addition for many travelers.

Overall, it’s an activity best suited for those who want a safe, organized, and engaging dolphin encounter close to Cancun’s hotel zone. Expect to come away with great stories, a few photos (if you pay), and a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with activities appropriate for all ages, including kids and elderly participants.

How long does the dolphin interaction last?
The actual swimming with dolphins lasts about 20 minutes, with the total experience taking around 35 minutes from check-in to finish.

Are cameras allowed during the interaction?
No, you cannot bring cameras, cell phones, or audiovisual devices into the habitat to ensure dolphin safety.

What activities are included with the dolphins?
Participants can enjoy around 10 activities such as a dolphin kiss, learning about their physiology, and observing their behavior.

What’s the cost of photos and videos?
Photos are not included in the package and can be purchased post-activity, often at a high price—about $53 per photo or in packages.

Does the price include transportation?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Plaza La Isla Shopping Center.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are available in English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most visitors.

Is prior booking necessary?
It’s recommended to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, but you can also book on the day if slots are available.

What should I bring for the activity?
Bring beachwear and your passport or ID. Remember that audiovisual devices are not allowed during the water activity.

Are there any safety concerns?
The activity is conducted with trained guides and has safety measures in place, but remember that it involves water, so swimmers should be comfortable in the water.

Whether you’re seeking a brief, joyful dolphin encounter or a chance to learn about marine life, this Cancun activity offers a well-organized, family-friendly option. Just keep in mind the timing and photo costs to make the most of your experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: