Swim With Dolphins, Stingrays And Sharks At Dolphin Cove

Category: Island Life

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October 31st 2023Back to our Sandals Blog > > >

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If you start with the gorgeous beaches, waterfalls, and other natural attributes and weave all the way through the intriguing culture and happening entertainment scene, you'll see that Jamaica is a bucket list travel destination for more reasons than one. Whether you're looking for a destination where you can do some sightseeing or somewhere you can jump right into a crazy island adventure, the options are endless on this sunny Caribbean isle.

And speaking of adventures... one of the experiences you probably won't want to miss out on while in Jamaica is swimming with dolphins. There are two great spots to do this in Jamaica - Dolphin Cove Montego Bay (which was previously called Dolphin Cove Negril) and Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios. These are both dolphin-centric attractions, but there are other marine animals you can also interact with while there, such as stingrays and sharks.

There's much to learn and love about dolphins at Dolphin Cove in Jamaica! We've compiled everything you need to know before going to this attraction to ensure your time there, whether you're doing a full day trip or just stopping in from a cruise ship, is simply unforgettable.

Things to do at Dolphin Cove in Jamaica

Dolphin Cove Jamaica is the sort of attraction where you'll be able to do some of the things you've always had on your vacation to-do list. With options like swimming with dolphins and petting sharks on the agenda, you'll be more than grateful for the decision to push the limits and really live in Jamaica by the time your visit to Dolphin Cove is over. If you're just about sold, here are some of the best things to do at Dolphin Cove in Jamaica:

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Get up close and personal with dolphins

There are many ways you will be able to get up close to dolphins while at Dolphin Cove in Jamaica. This can be done through the various programs offered, which start on an introductory level and get more involved as you level up. The first of these is a dolphin encounter program, which takes you about knee-deep into the water to interact with dolphins. This program is great for young children and people who prefer to stay in shallower water.

The dolphin swim package is done in deeper water, and you'll get to try out various tricks with the dolphins. The third package includes everything contained in the first two packages with the added opportunity to try out a 'foot push' (essentially a surfing experience including two very playful dolphins). You can select any program you like based on what you're comfortable with. If you want to see the dolphins, but don't necessarily want to get into the water, that's an option too.

Swim with sharks

If you're on the braver side, you can opt to swim with sharks at Dolphin Cove. You'll have the option to also hold and feed Caribbean sharks at this facility. If you decide to go for this encounter, it is comforting to know that the sharks in this experience are not at all dangerous to humans. Added to that, trainers will be with you for the duration of this experience to help ensure you feel safe and have a good time. In addition to swimming with sharks, you can snorkel with them too! At both the Montego Bay and Ocho Rios Dolphin Cove attractions, you can watch the shark show for free with an added cost to pet the sharks.

Snorkel with stingrays

Depending on how adventurous you are, snorkeling with stingrays just might have been on your to-do list for quite some time. Attractions like Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios feature a stingray snorkeling experience where you will be able to get close enough to these marine animals to hold, pet, and even feed them at the Stingray Sandbar. At both the Montego Bay and Ocho Rios Dolphin Cove locations, you'll gain insight about stingrays from the trained and knowledgeable guides who're always happy to answer questions.

Interact with Dolphin Cove's other animals

In addition to dolphins, sharks and stingrays, there are other animals at Dolphin Cove that you can interact with, including camels! That's right, you can meet, feed, and ride camels while on vacation in Jamaica at an added cost of about $10 USD. Once you're introduced to these amazing mammals, you can go on a Jungle Trail Walk where you're likely to come across exotic creatures like snakes, iguanas, and parrots.

What you need to know about Dolphin Cove

There are a few things you probably need to know ahead of planning a trip to Dolphin Cove. Here are some of the most important ones:

How to prepare for your Dolphin Cove experience

Book tours early

As with most attractions in Jamaica and elsewhere, if you want to secure a ticket or tour spot, you should make your reservation as early as possible. This is even more important if you will be traveling during peak season (mid-December to mid-April in Jamaica) when tours seem to fill up much quicker.

Be sure to book and confirm all or at the very least most of your tours before arriving in Jamaica. If something changes and you need a refund, you should be able to get a refund for any cancellation made on a Dolphin Cove program as long as the cancellation is made at least 5 days ahead of your tour date or earlier, but you should confirm the cancellation policy when booking. If your tour is canceled due to bad weather, you will also be entitled to a full refund.

Have entrance fees on hand

You'll need to travel with enough currency to cover the entrance fees for most tours in Jamaica unless these are already included within your tour package. Entrance fees may vary according to the tour, the program you choose, and even whether or not you want to walk away with photos at the end.

What to bring

When heading on any Dolphin Cove tour in Jamaica, it is important to wear comfortable clothing. When packing your bag for the day include towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, a camera, and some money for souvenirs. Keep in mind though, it is recommended that you don't apply sunscreen until after your dolphin activity for the safety of the dolphins and the preservation of the environment. Camera-wise, there are some programs that do not allow photography, such as dolphin programs. For these, it is necessary to purchase a photo package that can come with an added price tag between $60-$100 USD. The price in this instance can vary based on the number of photos you purchase.

What to leave at home

If you're planning on swimming with the marine animals at Dolphin Cove, it is a good idea to leave your jewelry at home. This includes rings, bracelets, and some types of earrings. You can either leave these at home or take them off before your program. Wearing jewelry during these experiences is not advisable because you can lose them while in the water and they can also scratch the dolphins.

How to get to Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove Montego Bay is located in Lucea, which is between Montego Bay and Negril. It is about an hour's drive from Lucea to either Negril or Montego Bay. Dolphin's Cove Ocho Rios on the other hand is in Ocho Rios, on the northern side of Jamaica.

The easiest way to get to Dolphin Cove Montego Bay is by way of a tour, which can take you directly there and back to your resort once the tour is over. Going with a tour will save you from having to find this location on your own, but if you're up for exploring, then you can also rent a car to get there. Local buses and taxis are also an option for getting to Dolphin Cove. If you're interested in taxi services, you can book a taxi from your resort and get information about the costs from the resort staff.

Dolphin Cove isn't very hard to get to if you're staying at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, an all-inclusive resort in Negril, or an all-inclusive resort in Ocho Rios. Both Dolphin Cove Montego Bay and Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios are ideal for half or full-day trips.

Expert tip: Only use cabs with red license plates when in Jamaica (if you happen to be hiring a taxi yourself instead of going through the resort) as these are the only legally operated cabs on the island. Negotiate upfront (before the cab drives off) if necessary.

Other places to visit near Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove is near some of the must-see attractions in Jamaica. Here are some of the best ones you should check out while you are in the area:

Seven Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach is a gorgeous and extensive stretch of beach in Jamaica that you absolutely must visit while there. Located in Negril on Jamaica's west coast, Seven Mile Beach is about a 45-minute drive from Dolphin Cove Montego Bay. Seven Mile Beach is considered one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean with soft white sand, crystal clear and calm waters, and lots of room to explore. Check out some of the best all-inclusive resorts on Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica to spend as much time as possible on this gem of a beach while on the island.

Expert tip: Seven Mile Beach is one of the best reasons to visit Negril, Jamaica. Check out these other exciting things to do in Negril, including cliff jumping at Rick's Cafe!

Mayfield Falls

Mayfield Falls is a small waterfall located about an hour away from Dolphin Cove Montego Bay. This location makes for a great half-day or full-day trip if you're looking for the sort of experience where you can relax and have a good time. Mayfield Falls is made up of 21 small cascades and you'll love the fact that there are lots of natural pools and 'jacuzzis' here as well, suitable for swimmers of all experience levels. The 4x4 Jeep Adventure to Mayfield Falls is definitely one of the best excursions in Negril, Jamaica.

Dunn's River Falls

Dunn's River Falls is quite famous - it is one of the largest waterfalls in Jamaica and the Caribbean. That's why it's pretty much on the to-do list of every traveler to Jamaica. At Dunn's River Falls, in addition to a waterfall that is 180 feet high, there's also a beach, restaurant, souvenir shops, and disability access. While exploring this area, climbing the falls, and bathing in natural pools, you can also check in with local guides for cultural and historical insights about Jamaica in general. Dunn's River Falls is located across from Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios, so it is a good idea to schedule both of these tours on the same day if you can.

Cool Blue Hole Cascade

Cool Blue Hole Cascade should definitely be on your list of things to do in Jamaica if you'll be in the Negril, Montego Bay, or Ocho Rios area for your vacation. This attraction is about 30 minutes from Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios, and it is also commonly referred to simply as 'The Blue Hole'. At this location, you'll find a sinkhole beneath a waterfall up in the hills of Ocho Rios. For an admission fee of just about $20 USD, you can jump into the blue hole, swim around, and explore!

Expert tip: Ocho Rios is one of the best areas to stay in Jamaica if you're interested in nature-centric activities. Check out some of these exciting things to do in Ocho Rios.

Swimming with the dolphins: A unique vacation experience in Jamaica!

As with all things, a wonderful vacation in Jamaica will require some planning. This is especially true if there are specific attractions you want to visit like Dolphin Cove, one of many amazing things to do in Jamaica.

If you're well on your way to booking your Jamaica vacation, it's worth noting that staying at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica can help you get easy access to some of the best tours. You can book all-inclusive packages at resorts like Sandals in Negril, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay, which have numerous restaurants, bars including swim-up bars, day and night entertainment, unlimited land and water sports and so much more. Either of these resorts will be the perfect starting point for island excursions of all varieties - all a part of your Jamaican experience of a lifetime!

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Sandals Resorts Wedding Packages

Your next great adventure begins here. Whether you prefer an intimate elopement or a grand affair, every wedding deserves a week-long celebration with a little something extra. Sandals and Beaches wedding packages offer the best of everything from pre-wedding events to unique wedding day and honeymoon experiences.

Click to read more articles about Sandals Weddings: Sandals Resort Wedding Planning

TWO LOVE BIRDS PACKAGE

Applicable for 2 people.

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license

Pre-Wedding Events
• Scents of Love Couples massage*

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown

On Your Wedding Day
• Bridal attendant*
• 10 digital images

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Witnesses

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d'oeuvres
- Sparkling wine
- Reception table with white linen and white cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Private candlelight dinner with four-course menu and prosecco*

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

SWEETHEART WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for up to 10 people

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the bride and groom (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• $200 credit towards select photography packages
• $200 credit towards select videography packages

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Chef-inspired hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Reception table with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with white or magenta dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen and white cushioned Chiavari chairs

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package

- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

This package is complimentary when Bride and Groom stay for 7 nights or longer in Club or Butler categories. This offer is available Monday through Friday, 9am-2pm and is applicable only to 10 persons. This offer does not apply to ReTie the Knot ceremonies. Certain restrictions apply. See terms and conditions

BLISS WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for 12 people or more

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20 (up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31. (up to 5 complimentary rooms)

Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the entire group (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• 20 digital images
• $200 credit towards select videography packages

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for 1 member of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for 1 member of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Two-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen & white cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection from the plated menus and a premium bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of your choice
• $100 credit towards either a Private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

EPIC WEDDING PACKAGE

Applicable for 52 people or more

Before You Arrive
• Wedding planning team
• Gift registry service and wedding website templates
• Preparation of documents for marriage license
• 6th Room Free* when traveling with 5 paid double rooms between Sept. 1 - Dec. 20 (up to 5 complimentary rooms)
• 12th Room Free* when 11 paid double rooms travel between Jan. 2 - Aug. 31. (up to 5 complimentary rooms)

Pre-Wedding Events
• One-hour private welcome cocktail
- Heavy hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• 2-hour private pre-wedding celebration dinner
• Wedding day treats : frozen fruit kabobs & small bites with sparkling wine for bride and groom (in-room while getting ready on day of wedding)

During Your Stay
• Onsite wedding event team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for the entire group (not applicable to retail items)

On Your Wedding Day
• $500 credit towards the Royal Romance photography package
• $500 credit towards the Ultimate videography package

At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• One speaker and one microphone
• Rose bouquet
• Rose boutonniere
• Rose bouquet for up to 2 members of wedding party
• Rose boutonniere for up to 2 members of wedding party
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs

At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d'oeuvres
- Premium bar, sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
- Cocktail tables with white linen
• Three-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• Reception table with white linen and whitecushioned Chiavari chairs
• Private two-hour dinner reception with selection from the plated or buffet menus and a premium bar, non-alcoholic beverages including freshly brewed coffee and a selection of herbal teas
• One sweetheart table to include white linen, standard place setting & 2 white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• Two-hour DJ entertainment

On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine in resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
• $100 Credit towards either a private candlelight dinner, scuba, snuba, beach or pool cabana

For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

RETIE THE KNOT PACKAGE

Applicable for up to 10 people.

Before You Arrive
• ReTie the Knot planning team
• Celebration gift registry and website templates
During Your Stay
• Onsite ReTie the Knot team: event coordination, setup & breakdown
• 15% off select Red Lane Spa services for bride and groom (not applicable to retail items)
• One 5x7 photo print
• One keepsake gift
At Your Ceremony
• Picturesque ceremony location*
• Pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid bouquet
• White or magenta dendrobium orchid boutonniere
• White-cushioned Chiavari chairs
• ReTie the Knot commemorative certificate
At Your Wedding Reception
• Private one-hour cocktail reception
- Passed hors d' oeuvres
- Sparkling wine toast, signature cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverages
• Single-tiered white fondant cake with dendrobium topper
• Reception table with white linen & white-cushioned Chiavari chairs
On Your Honeymoon
• Honeymoon dinner with sparkling wine at a resort specialty restaurant
• Honeymoon Package
- Chilled sparkling wine and sweet treat
- Romantic turn-down service on wedding night
- Breakfast in bed any morning of choice
For Your Anniversary
• One free anniversary night on a future stay with 7 paid nights in a Club or Butler category

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Some of our destination weddings