Any proceeds made from my reviews will go to Forever Angels baby home in Tanzania -so thanks for rea...
Any proceeds made from my reviews will go to Forever Angels baby home in Tanzania -so thanks for reading/rating and commenting --I'll always try to return the favour. SK
--I am also on dooyoo as Charlie-Kate:hope to see some of you there!!
Member since:19.01.2008
Reviews:30
Members who trust:3
I have done the dolphin "swim" programme at Ocho Rios twice now, and had the time of my life on both occasions. Previously, I had been to the man made resort in FL, where I swam along side one dolphin.It was lovely and alot of fun, but for those whole are looking for a real "experience" -Ocho rios is your place!
I am not even very comfortable in water out of my depth, but was absolutely determined to do this. As it transpired, I was kept afloat the whole time by the life jacket and helped back and forth (where a lot of swimming was required) by the very laid back staff.
The swim programme allows you to swim with two dolphins, both times I have swam with the wonderful Beta and Cometa.
It includes a fun introduction where you "get to know the dolphins" through gentle touch and play (this is also a good way to "break the ice" with the other swimmers and a great photo opportunity). Then you are off for a dorsal pull -holding on to each of the dolphins and being carried through the water is such fun, you know you'll want to repaet the experience!
Next, the foot push, now to have two dolphins coming up behind you and literally standing you on there noses is something that I never thought I'd be doing -- if you've got a good posture and can keep your legs straight enough, this is a wonderful photo moment (unfortunately, I have yet to do so:)
I noticed on my second visit that this is not so much just for couples any more (ie a kiss by the dolphin moment)-it can be, but is also left alone a bit for the traveler who wishes to go alone -- also, the staff are great at putting nervous people at ease -and at the end, you'll wonder why you were ever nervous at all!
Also added is a glass bottom boat ride, a jungle trail and the opportunity to swim with sharks and rays in the price of the "swim with" ticket, so even though it is expensive - you now get a lot for your money at this ever expanding attraction.
I booked in England the first time, but it cost more and I had to make phone calls out there to secure my reservation, so just book out there would be my advise, I did this through my travel rep. and even though I was only there for one week, the second time around was ALOT less hassle than the first. If you can, try to book through a reputable travel representative, as their prices are alot cheper than the hotel prices. Remember "No problem mon" and don't worry -there will be a space for you-these people know how to make the most of what they have and how to organise tours to meet all of your requirements.
Do beware though - merchandise of your swim (dvd's of photos and film) are fantastic, but also come at a fantastically high price! I have bought both CD's both times as the shots have always been so good!
I always say that I'll never have the money to go again, but I really see myself back there in a couple of years, and yes, when I have finished perfecting my foot push so that I am perfectly balanced on the dolphins, I shall also be back at the check out to purchase my memories on CD and DVD - after all it is just a once in a life time opportunity...or twice...:)
Have fun:)
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