Hugh Parkey Belize Dive Connection

The Dolphin Connection

Dolphins and their trainers - Dolphin Encounter, Hugh Parkey Dive Connection

Experience Belize's first and only Dolphin Encounter program at Belize Adventure Lodge on the private island, Spanish Look-Out Caye. Home to 4 captive born Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, our Dolphin Encounter program is located in a natural lagoon just under 4 acres in size.

The Intent of the Dolphin Encounter
The intent of the encounter is that "Today you will have a fun, safe and educational interaction with our dolphins, leave the facility with a greater understanding of these magnificent mammals and hopefully be encouraged to take an active role in protecting the ocean".

The Dolphin Encounter Program
With 100% focus on the welfare of the resident dolphins, the tour begins with a lively 15 min. orientation by professional trainers that touches on natural history and the physiology and care of the dolphins, and some marine conservation issues including Watchable Wildlife Guidelines.

Dolphin with trainer - Hugh Parkey Dive Connection You are then divided into groups of 8 guests per trainer to go into the water for a close encounter with these remarkable creatures. Participants enter the lagoon from the gently sloping beach and wade into waist-deep water where a trained staff member offers an informative, "hands-on" interaction with a resident dolphin who is asked to demonstrate behaviors that have been trained. Photo opportunities are also included in your encounter session. Actual in-water encounter time is approximately 20 - 25 minutes.

Guidelines for the Dolphin Encounter

Guests are welcome to bring waterproof cameras which are placed on the beach until the photo op period of the Encounter.
All sharp jewelry to be removed from the guests hands before participating in the Dolphin Encounter.
No smoking is permitted at the dolphin lagoon.
Restrooms and showers are provided at the dolphin lagoon.
Observers are welcome to view the encounters from the beach but are not permitted in the water.
Children age 6 – 9 years old need to be accompanied by a paying adult.
To make provisions for children under 6 years please contact our reservations agent.
Children 13 years and over are at adult price.

An experience not to miss, this encounter requires no swimming skills, and is ideal for small children, the elderly, and anyone who wants to interact with dolphins.