Dolphin Swimming

Whale Watching Tours in Los Cabos

// December 1st, 2011 // View Comments // News, Sea Life, Vallarta, cabo

Whale watching with Dolphin Discovery

Weighing up to 73,000 pounds and measuring up to 50 feet, the gray whale in the Pacific Ocean is a spectacle to see. Every fall, the gray whale makes the longest migration of any mammal—a 6,000 mile journey from cold waters of Alaska and Siberia to the warm ocean of Baja California. The whales leave their home and arrive in late December to escape the chilly winter and take refuge to birth their young. They make the Pacific Ocean their home from January to March, offering us the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see them up close in their habitat. Watching these awe-inspiring creatures is a sight not to be missed.

Breaching, whale watching in Los Cabos

During the tour, you might be a spectator to a number of behaviors. While you’re on the boat, keep an eye out for spouting, the visible exhaling of air by the whale. This is the first indication of the proximity of whales. Another whale behavior is breaching: when the whale leaps out of the water and falls back with a splash. Whales are constantly moving and can remain underwater from two to five minutes, meaning you have to keep your eyes open and anticipate their direction so you will be ready for the next breach and sprout. Your guides will also be able to tell you where to look as they have become experts in reading whale behavior. While on the tour, you might also see the whales showing their flukes, and hear them sounding their whale song. The most exciting and thrilling behavior is spy-hopping. The whale pushes itself up to the surface of the water until he can see his surroundings. The curious creature comes face-to-face with its observers as you look at him.

Spy-hopping Whale Watching Tour

Although the gray whale is the most popular species, Los Cabos whale watching tours are rich because there might be the chance of seeing an even greater variety of animals. The tour is also available in Vallarta.

Dolphin Discovery takes you on this exciting whale watching tour in Los Cabos and Vallarta on a small boat, zodiac, giving us the ability to move in closer and faster to get an eye-to-eye close up with these stunning and beautiful animals.

Celebrating 10 Years of Manatee Rescue Programs at Dolphin Discovery

// November 16th, 2011 // View Comments // Cancun / Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, News, Riviera Maya, Sea Life

Manatee Family Dolphin Discovery Riviera Maya

Dolphin Discovery is celebrating another incredible milestone in our continuing efforts to protect and conserve endangered  marine animals. It was ten years ago that our team of biologists first participated in the rescue of manatees in Mexico. In 2001, Dolphin Discovery was invited to the state of Tabasco where a group of manatees were living in very poor conditions in a polluted lake. The animals were suffering horribly, extremely malnourished and in desperate need of assistance. Manatees are an endangered species and it was with a sense of urgency that the Dolphin Discovery team joined authorities from the federal government in the rescue operation. The delicate mission was successful, the biologists rescued “Romeo and Juliet”, and brought them back to the Dolphin Discovery facilities in Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya for rehabilitation and medical care.

“The Story of Tuuch” a moving video of the rescue of a baby manatee
(”Tuuch” has since been renamed Roberto & is enjoying a fine life in the Riviera Maya)

Since then, Romeo and Juliet have not only survived, but have thrived in their new home. The couple has created a beautiful family through the Dolphin Discovery breeding program, becoming parents to three offspring (as well as fostering the rescued baby “Roberto” and taking him in as their own). The manatee family at Dolphin Discovery has grown over the years through other rescue operations, a testament to the skill and care of our team of biologists and scientists, led by Dr. Roberto Sanchez and their dedication to the preservation of this endangered species.

If you are in Cancun this week, join us in Parque las Palapas downtown for a celebration of our ten years of caring for these noble creatures. November 17, 18 and 19th from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm you can meet members of our team and enjoy activities for the whole family.

We invite you to meet our manatee friends in the Riviera Maya, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres in our unique manatee encounter programs, learn about these gentle giants and even give them a little kiss, it is an experience you will never forget.

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel Earns Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

// August 30th, 2011 // View Comments // Cozumel, Locations, News

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel is pleased to to announce that we have received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence, which honors top-rated lodging businesses, restaurants and attractions, as reviewed by travelers on the world’s largest travel site. To qualify, businesses must maintain an average rating of four or higher out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor. Additional criteria include volume of reviews and how recently they have been submitted by TripAdvisor travelers.

“The TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence program gives exceptional businesses in a variety of different industries around the world the recognition they deserve,” said Christine Petersen, president of TripAdvisor for Business. “From top-rated restaurants in Boston to top-rated attractions in Barcelona, we want to applaud these businesses for offering TripAdvisor travelers a great customer experience.”

The Dolphin Discovery Cozumel staff are dedicated to providing guests with the experience of a lifetime. From our reservations department to food and beverage and of course our incredible trainers, each member of the team has contributed to this award of excellence from Trip Advisor.  We thank all of you, our guests, the award means so much knowing that it was the positive response of travelers that brought us this recognition.  Congratulations team!

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel facilities are located inside Chankanaab National Park. The swim with dolphins programs participants and their companions are invited to to relax, enjoy good food and cool beverages, snorkel the reefs, giggle at the sea lions show and participate in other activities inChankanaab, or go out and explore the island by themselves before or after their interactive program.

Schedule: Cozumel location is open Monday to Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Contact the Dolphin Discovery reservations department to book your dolphin swim experience!

Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman Accredited by AMMPA

// March 3rd, 2011 // View Comments // Grand Cayman, Locations, News

Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman is celebrating this week after receiving accreditation by AMMPA (Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums).  The hard work, dedication and devotion of every member of the staff is to be commended, a hearty congratulations to the whole team for their passion in making Dolphin Discovery the number one dolphin experience in the world!

“The Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums is an international association representing marine life parks, aquariums, zoos, research facilities, and professional organizations dedicated to the highest standards of care for marine mammals and to their conservation in the wild through public education, scientific study, and wildlife presentations……..The Alliance administers a stringent accreditation process for its members. Accredited members must uphold Alliance Standards and Guidelines to optimize the psychological and physical health of, and environmental conditions for, individual marine mammals under their care, and to maximize the educational and scientific value of their collections as a whole. - AMMPA

Dolphin Discovery is dedicated to providing the highest standards of care to all our marine animals in addition to maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment for our guests.  Our interactive dolphin programs are designed to be educational as well as fun, sharing our knowledge of these amazing marine animals and discussing the importance of conservation and the environment.  Every member of the Dolphin Discovery team strives to be the best and to get better everyday, from our reservations department to the trainers to the veterinarians to the maintenance crew, ensuring the health and well being of the animals in our care and the enjoyment of our guests.  The AMMPA accreditation acknowledges the efforts of everyone at Dolphin Discovery, it is an honor to be recognized by this esteemed organization.  Congrats team!

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos

// February 22nd, 2011 // View Comments // Locations, News, cabo, los cabos

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos is open for business!  February 14th, 2011 was a day to celebrate Valentine’s Day and the inauguration of Dolphin Discovery’s newest location.

“It must be love….this is this motto that best represents our opening on February 14th and that best describes the emotional bond between dolphins and humans” said Eduardo Albor, General Director of the Dolphin Discovery Group in his announcement for the opening of Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos in Puerto Los Cabos. “This project is done in partnership with the Questro Group in the beautiful destination of Puerto Los Cabos in what is the only dolphinarium in a natural environment in the Mexican Pacific”

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos Opening Day Orientation

This Project is the tenth dolphinarium from the Dolphin Discovery Group, designed in a natural environment in the waters of the Sea of Cortez in Puerto Los Cabos, surrounded by lush greenery and soaring palm trees, a striking contrast to the cactus and nopales of the región. Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos is home to six Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Titan, Triton, Eva, Shelly, Scarlett and Ixchel. The facility has the capacity to receive up to 300 visitors per day, welcoming guests looking to live the extraordinary experience of swimming with dolphins in the most beautiful dolphinarium in the Mexican Pacific.

“Our interactive programs were designed to allow guests to enjoy maximum interaction with these fascinating mammals in a natural environment like that of Los Cabos, learning about their care, their way of life, their anatomy and they come away with the experience of a lifetime, conscious of the importance of taking care of the environment and the species which inhabit our planet” said Edgar Urbina, Corporate Director of Trainers for the Dolphin Discovery Group. “The dolphins could not be in a better place and they have adjusted perfectly to their new home since their arrival on February 5th”.

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos Opening Day

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos is now welcoming new friends and sharing the experience of a lifetime in this prestigious destination.  With three interactive dolphin swimming programs, we have something for everyone. The Dolphin Encounter program is ideal for families with young children and the Dolphin Royal Swim is perfect for those looking for an adventure in adrenaline.  We invite you all to join us in the Mexican Pacific’s only dolphinarium set in a natural environment, enjoy a dolphin kiss and take home memories that will last a lifetime.

For more photos of our beautiful new location, visit Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos.

Swim with Dolphins Cabo

// February 10th, 2011 // View Comments // Locations, cabo

San Jose del Cabo

“Cabo“.  One little word packs a powerful punch, its meaning is clear as soon as it is uttered.  “Cabo“.  Beaches, deep blue sea, luxurious celebrity getaway and now the home of the newest Dolphin Discovery location!

Located on the southern tip of Baja California, Cabo is a popular destination for sun lovers looking for a very special vacation escape.  Luxurious hotels and homes line the shore, offering distinguished accommodations for travellers to enjoy the spectacular views.  “El Arco de Cabo San Lucas” is perhaps the most recognizable landmark in Cabo, a stunning rock formation where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez and where the sea lions love to congregate.  The winter months bring pods of whales to the area, offering travellers an opportunity to witness the majesty of these gigantic sea creatures.  There is much to enjoy in Los Cabos, golf, fishing, sailing, water sports, shopping and fine dining, and of course, meeting the Cabo dolphins at Dolphin Discovery!

Dolphin Discovery Cabo invites you to join us as we launch our newest dolphinarium on February 14th, 2011.  You’ll find us near the “Marina at Puerto Los Cabos” in San Jose de Cabo, an area rich in pirate history and now famous for the world-class fishing excursions.  We look forward to becoming a part of the community and to sharing our love for dolphins and marine animals with a whole new group of friends and visitors.  We hope to see you soon in Dolphin Discovery Cabo!

(photo courtesy http://www.adventure-travel.org.uk/)

Taste of Cayman

// February 4th, 2011 // View Comments // Grand Cayman, News

The Taste of Cayman Food and Wine Festival in Grand Cayman gets bigger and better and tastier every year!  2011 marked the 23rd year for this annual event with more than 30 restaurants and chefs presenting their finest dishes to thousands of guests.  Jerk pork, Cayman conch chowder and sticky toffee cake were just some of the offerings at hand as visitors sampled and savoured and cast their votes for Cayman’s favourite restaurant.  With over 50 different wines to taste, the famous mojito bar and the refreshing mudslides from the Rum Point Club, thirst was quenched and taste buds tingled.  At the end of the day, the votes were cast and “Deckers” was selected Cayman’s favourite restaurant, be sure to check them out when you visit the island!

While the focus of the festival is food (of course!), guests were also treated to entertainment throughout the day.  Live music, fireworks, games and contests, including the Dolphin Discovery ring toss game.  Kids lined up to try their hand at tossing a ring over a (toy) dolphin’s nose, winning smiles and prizes.

Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman was delighted to participate in this great community event.  We’d like to congratulate the “Taste of Cayman” organization for a wonderful day, may we have many more together in the years to come!

Dolphin Discovery 2010 Year in Review

// December 17th, 2010 // View Comments // About Dolphins, Cancun / Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Dolphins for kids, Grand Cayman, Locations, News, Riviera Maya, Sea Life, Tortola, Vallarta, costa maya

It’s that time of year again, the season to join with family and friends and celebrate the holidays, reflect on the year past and look forward to what the new year will bring.  2010 was a busy year for Dolphin Discovery, new ventures, new friends and a whole lot of smiling faces.  Let’s have a look at some of the highlights of 2010…

****************************************

Cozumel Welcomes Sea Lions!

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel was thrilled to welcome sea lions into the family this  year, with their feisty characters and silly antics, the sea lion program is a delightful addition to Chankanaab Park.  Pingo and Karla make us laugh every day, and little baby Taco has a huge personality!

****************************************

Miss Caribbean World Pageant Tortola

Dolphin Discovery Tortola is a truly beautiful place, but the participants in the Miss Caribbean World Pageant made it gorgeous!  These lovely ladies from all over the Caribbean took time out of their busy schedule to join us for a swim with dolphins in Tortola, we thank them for their visit and offer congratulations once again to winner Marcia Baptiste of Dominica!

****************************************

“Por la Libre” Open Water Race

Dolphin Discovery was pleased to be a sponsor of the 10 km open water swim race from Cancun to Isla Mujeres.  More than 500 international athletes hit the water in Cancun and made the ocean crossing to the finish line at Garrafon Park.  Seventeen year old Fernando Betanzos finished first, with an incredible time of 1 hour and 33 minutes!  Televisa Verde made this event extra special by donating 6000 mangrove plants to revitalize the Nichupte Lagoon.

****************************************

Manatee Madness in Riviera Maya

Our little family of manatees in Puerto Aventuras had a fantastic 2010.  In June we had a big first birthday celebration for our rescued manatee “Robert”, with a fruit and vegetable birthday cake and a visit from local school children.  In September we welcomed the newest member of the manatee family as Julieta gave birth to a bouncing baby boy,  another success for our reproduction program!

****************************************

Merlin the iPad Dolphin

One of the biggest news stories of the year was the release of the iPad and our smart-as-a-whip dolphin Merlin was one of the first to give the tablet a whirl and make his own headlines.  Researchers from “Speak Dolphin” introduced the touch-screen device to Merlin in an effort to bridge communications with our dolphin friends and learn more about these incredible creatures.  The fame has not gone to Merlin’s head, he is as down to earth (down to sea?) as he has always been, a vital part of our Riviera Maya crew.

****************************************

“Dive with Dolphins Cozumel”

Dolphin Discovery Cozumel introduced a unique new program this year, “Dive with Dolphins” invites our guests to join dolphins under the sea and discover a whole new way to play.  Chankanaab Park and Cozumel are paradise to scuba divers all over the world, what better way to explore the underwater home of the dolphins?  This was one of my personal highlights of the year, donning the mask and tank and playing with Titan near the ocean floor was a truly phenomenal experience.

****************************************

Cruisers Delight, Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya

November 2010 we celebrated the grand opening of our newest dolphinarium in the cruise ship port of Costa Maya near the town of Mahahual.   Located about 400 kms south of Cancun, Costa Maya is a HOT destination for cruise ships!  Dolphin Discovery is excited about our new venture and we look forward to welcoming new friends from the cruising community in 2011 and the years to come.

****************************************

This is just a taste of some of the great experiences we’ve had at Dolphin Discovery this year, I could write all day about new births and visiting celebrities and the numerous charity and community events that we were honored to be a part of.  I would like to thank every member of the Dolphin Discovery team for all their hard work and smiles, let’s do it again next year!

To all of you, our guests, we thank you for making 2010 a special year and we wish you a happy and safe holiday season and a new year full of love, life, happiness and success.  Dolphin hugs and kisses to everyone, see you in 2011!