Friday, April 14th was National Dolphin Day so I must share my experience swimming with the dolphins. It was one of the most meaningful and memorable events of my life.
A very special friend took me on her boat to the Bahamas for my birthday. Knowing my love for animals, she planned for us to swim with the dolphins at the Atlantis Resort. There are no words to describe the thrill of this for me. Dolphins are among the most playful and charismatic of all God’s creations. I highly recommend that EVERYone do this before they die! And there is no better place than Dolphin Cay at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.
Dolphin Cay is just one of many attractions at the Atlantis, but it is my favorite. It is magical place that is unlike anything in the world. There are 14 acres with 7 million gallons of crystal clear seawater. It is one of the largest and most sophisticated marine habitats and animal rescue-rehabilitation facilities with nothing else like it in the world. The first dolphins rescued were 16 dolphins who were swept to sea during Hurricane Katrina.
There are some happy, appreciative dolphins at Dolphin Cay. My friend and I were each assigned our own personal dolphin. My dolphin did tricks for me, swam with me above and below the water, and was completely devoted to me during my time with him. One of the most amazing things he did was take me on a little ride. His agility and speed made for a wild ride. I firmly held on to my boogie board while he gently placed his nose centered on the arch of my foot and when I said “Go” then WOW! We FLEW through the water at 25 mph, which feels much faster than it sounds when propelled by a smiling dolphin enjoying his trick.
My dolphin also had a great sense of humor. My friend and I wanted a photo of the two of us. When I later looked at the photos, I saw that my dolphin was showing off in the background.
I didn’t want to leave, but I had to kiss and say goodbye in hopes of returning one day. Those of you who follow me know that if I could figure out a way to have a pet dolphin (as I do a pet ‘possum) in my backyard I would do it. The dolphins at Dolphin Cay have the happiest home ever!
The Atlantis has all sorts of family special packages with activities for every age. It is the perfect getaway for ANY age. Click here to check it out!
Tell Me: Have you ever swam with animals? If so, tell me about your experience below!
I absolutely love this. Barbara thanks for sharing… I would love to do this ..do you know of a place in Hawaii .. I will be there .. I love this story and the pictures..
I am blessed to be able to see dolphins everyday in my backyard, a beautiful bay in Florida. If I fall off the paddle board or kayak, perhaps I will swim with them, too.
Swimming with dolphins has always been a dream of mine. I can’t believe that they can drag someone behind them and still go 25 mph! Man, I’d love to go out and do that somewhere with my family.
Thank you for your nice message, Ridley. Amazingly enough, they don’t pull you, they PUSH you by placing their “nose” into the arch of your foot. I hope you enjoy the experience sometime soon!