When I was in school deciding on my college major, I wanted nothing more than to study animals (specifically sea life.) I dreamed about swimming with dolphins and getting up close with sea lions, and knew a career in Marine Biology was for me. Things didn’t pan out like I thought they would (I changed majors more than one time!), but lucky for all of us, everyone has the opportunity to swim with dolphins at Discovery Point in Sea World San Antonio.
Discovery Point opened to the public last weekend, but before the opening, I was invited to go on a behind the scenes tour and swim with the dolphins, and I’m happy to share pictures from that experience with you! (I am going to write another post with some tips, too!)
Discovery Point in Sea World allows guests to observe dolphins from all-new underwater viewing areas and connect to sea life in the renovated Explorer’s Reef aquarium. It’s a laid back area of the park (with air conditioning in the aquarium!), and offers the chance to speak to trainers and get on eye level with dolphins! For a deeper interactive experience, signature swims with Atlantic bottle nose dolphins, belugas and sea lions are available.
Discovery Point in Sea World
Guests can make reservations to swim with dolphins (or belugas or sea lions) for an additional fee. I swam with the dolphins, and can’t wait to show you more pictures from my family’s swim with sea lion, Digit!
- Swim participants must be at least 6 years old. Children ages 6 to 12 must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also participating in the swim experience.
- Prices range from $125 to $155 per person.
- Wet suits, water shoes and life jackets are provided for use.
- Showers are available, as are towels. Shampoo and body wash were both accessible in the restroom. (There was also a family restroom available.)
- You will be required to remove jewelry before your swim.
- Allow several hours for the interaction, depending on which one you choose.
- Know you may have other guests in your group, outside of your family.
Explorer’s Reef
One of the first things you’ll notice when you enter Explorer’s Reef is the breathtaking, 9000-gallon cylindrical salt water aquarium. Inside, you’ll see more than 300 species of fish, invertebrates and amphibians, as well as five different species of sharks – all of which are considered vulnerable and well on their way toward endangered status.
You’ll also see some of the most unusual treasures, like sea horses, clownfish, coral reef fish and beautiful dart frogs!
At Explorer’s Reef, you’ll get a close-as-you-dare look at several species of these top predators, including zebra sharks, sand tigers, blacktip sharks and nurse sharks – all of which are considered vulnerable and well on their way toward endangered status. You’ll also learn how to help turn the tide for these and other animals who are essential to our seas.
Discovery Point is available to all guests, and included with park admission. It is a must-see exhibit at Sea World. I recommend visiting as soon as you enter the park or right before leaving, as it’s located near the park exit.
For more information, visit www.seaworlddiscoverypoint.com, and be sure to follow #DiscoveryPoint on social media!
2 Comments
That is so awesome! When we lived in San Antonio we had passes to See World and we loved it!
Do you actually swim with the dolphins or do you just get in the water and stand by them?