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 isitors to Hawaii frequently see dolphins from shore or on a whale-watching cruise or
fishing boat. Visitors sometimes happen to be in the water
snorkeling or kayaking when
a pod of dolphins swims by. Some visitors even seek out dolphins,
either by frequenting areas where dolphins live and play, like
Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, or by taking a
boat tour that frequents areas where dolphins live and play.
If however, you would like to guarantee up-close dolphin interaction you can pay for the privilege at three places in Hawaii.
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1. Dolphin Quest on the Big Island
Pros:
Children 5 years and up can participate. Several programs to choose from.
Cons:
No actual 'swimming' with dolphins. The Dolphin Quest Program on the
Big Island is located at the Hilton Waikoloa Village hotel. You do not
have to be a guest at the hotel to participate in or watch the dolphin
programs. The program includes dolphin trivia and facts, close up
examination the program's captive dolphin's body parts like teeth and
tail, getting to feed the dolphins, being in the water with the
dolphins and watching them underwater with the mask. Each person also
gets a few photo opportunities touching or holding a dolphin in
different poses.
2. Dolphin Quest on Oahu
Pros:
Extensive program for kids 5 to 12.
Cons:
No actual 'swimming' with dolphins. The Oahu program is located at the
Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Although the Oahu and Big Island
programs are similar in theme, there are differences. The Oahu program
includes many of the same aspects as the Big Island program, but here
kids also have an opportunity to interact with reef fish and sea
turtles. Oahu also offers a program that is half as long and a little
less expensive.
3. Sea Life Park on Oahu
Pros:
If your dolphin is willing, you get to hold onto his/her dorsal fin for a swim.
Cons:
Out of a 45 minute program, only 15 of it is in the water. Only for
ages 13 and up. This program also includes the price of
admission to Sea Life Park. It features a lot of in-depth dolphin facts and
some close up dolphin interaction, plus 15 minutes in the water with the dolphins. Pictures are also available.
Lisa Weber lives on the Big Island of Hawaii and runs a Hawaii Travel website at Oahu, Hawaii
Editor's Note: ALL links in this article were placed by the
editor and DO NOT constitute referrals by the authors, who
DO NOT assume any responsibility for same, mahalo.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
The above are NOT the only places to see or swim with dolphins in Hawaii. Imagine seeing
a pod of dolphins frolicking as only dolphins do while on a
dolphin tour. Or experience the
ultimate wild dolphin swim.
Swimming with wild dolphins or
those in captivity is an experience not to be missed. Check out the links below for more exciting dolphin encounters:
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