Imagine swimming alongside playful, intelligent Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the natural beauty of Roatan. For many travelers, swimming with dolphins is a bucket-list experience, and this tropical paradise offers the perfect setting to make that dream come true.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to swim with dolphins in Roatan, including the best places to go, tips for a smooth experience, and insider advice on how to make the most of your adventure.
Let’s dive in.
Where to Go Swimming with Dolphins in Roatan
If you’re planning to swim with dolphins in Roatan, the best—and only—place to do it is at Anthony’s Key Resort (AKR), located in Sandy Bay. While you may come across third-party providers online, all dolphin experiences take place at AKR, so booking directly with the resort ensures you get the best experience and price possible.
AKR offers a natural environment for its dolphins, with a large, spacious lagoon that mimics their wild habitat. This ethical approach to dolphin encounters is part of what makes the experience here so special. Whether you’re hoping for a brief meet-and-greet or an all-day dolphin encounter, AKR’s dolphin programs are perfect for travelers of all ages.
Dolphin Programs at Anthony’s Key Resort
Anthony’s Key Resort offers a variety of dolphin interaction programs, each designed to provide a unique and memorable experience.
Your dolphin encounter begins today!
1. Dolphin Encounter
The Dolphin Encounter is an excellent choice for families or those new to dolphin interactions. You’ll meet a trained naturalist who will give you an introduction to dolphin behavior and anatomy. Then, you’ll get up close to these friendly creatures, touch, play, and even pose for photos with them in waist-deep water.
The Dolphin Encounter program is ideal for children as young as 3, and there’s no swimming required, making it accessible for all ages and abilities.
Price: Starts at $89 USD
Duration: 30 minutes
Age Requirement: 3+ (children must be accompanied by a paying adult)
2. Dolphin Swim and Snorkel
Ready to dive in a little deeper? The Dolphin Swim and Snorkel lets you get up close with the Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural lagoon. After a short intro, you’ll snorkel alongside a pod of dolphins as they swim freely around you. Be prepared for an unforgettable experience as they play and interact in the water!
Note: You’ll need some snorkeling experience for this one, and it’s open to kids 8 and up.
Price: $129 USD
Duration: 60 minutes
Age Requirement: 8+ with prior snorkeling experience
3. Dolphin Action Swim
Looking for a bit more excitement? The Dolphin Action Swim is where things get really fun! You’ll get to experience the famous Foot Push, where dolphins push you across the water by your feet, and the Dorsal Ride, where you grab onto their fins for a thrilling ride. It’s the perfect way to feel the dolphins’ power and speed.
Price: $139 USD
Duration: 45 minutes
Age Requirement: 5+ (kids need an adult with them)
4. Dolphin Trainer for a Day
Ever wondered what it’s like to work with dolphins every day? The Dolphin Trainer for a Day program lets you step behind the scenes at the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences (RIMS) and learn all about dolphin care, feeding, and training techniques. It’s a full-day adventure for anyone who wants to dive deep into dolphin life and become a dolphin trainer!
Price: $349 USD
Duration: 8 hours
Age Requirement: 10+
Tips for Your Swim With Dolphins Roatan Adventure
- Book Early: Dolphin programs at Anthony’s Key Resort are extremely popular, especially during the high season from December to April. It’s highly recommended to book your dolphin encounter in advance to secure your spot.
- Follow Trainer Instructions: Dolphins are intelligent and social animals, but it’s important to follow the instructions of the trainers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the dolphins.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes for comfort. Reef-safe sunscreen is a must to protect the marine environment. Consider bringing a rash guard for extra sun protection and a waterproof camera if you’d like to capture the experience. The resort provides snorkel gear for your dolphin snorkel session.
- Use a GoPro or Professional Photos: While cameras are allowed during the encounter, they are not permitted during the swimming portion of the experience. AKR provides professional photographers to capture high-quality images, so you don’t miss out on the memories.
- Check the Age Requirements: Each program has a different age requirement. The Dolphin Encounter is suitable for younger children, but programs like the Dolphin Swim and Snorkel require participants to be at least 8 years old. Additionally, some programs do not allow pregnant women to participate for safety reasons.
Best Time to Swim with Dolphins in Roatan
The ideal time for your dolphin excursion is during the dry season, from February to August. During these months, you’ll enjoy calm seas and warm weather—perfect for a day spent in the water. While Anthony’s Key operates year-round, the dry season offers the best conditions for your dolphin swim.
Make Island House Roatan Your Home Base
After your dolphin encounter, there’s nothing better than coming back to a cozy and welcoming spot to relax. Island House Roatan has a variety of private vacation rentals and beachfront villas that provide the perfect escape. Whether you’re staying near West Bay Beach or want to be in the heart of the action, Island House has you covered.
But that’s not all—Island House also offers a range of guest services to help plan your perfect vacation. Whether you want to organize a dolphin encounter at Anthony’s Key Resort, book a snorkel trip, take a local island tour, have a sloth encounter, or enjoy a personal chef at your vacation home, Island House’s team will make it happen. They’re all about making sure your Roatan experience is one to remember! Just reach out to their concierge team, and they’ll take care of all the details for you.
Our properties are close to Anthony’s Key Resort, so you can easily plan your dolphin encounter along with other fun island activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach hopping. Plus, with Island House, you get all the comforts of home—perfect for unwinding after a day spent exploring the island.
Plan Your Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin Encounter
Swimming with dolphins in Roatan is an unforgettable experience, full of wonder, excitement, and lasting memories. Whether you’re getting a quick intro with the Dolphin Encounter or diving into the full-day Trainer for a Day program, you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face! Ready to plan your tropical adventure? Book your stay with Island House Roatan and get ready to dive into the fun!
