Dolphin Academy Curaçao

Quick Facts

Overview

Dolphin Academy Curaçao offers structured, in-water programs that let visitors meet, swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or free-dive with bottlenose dolphins in a series of natural seawater lagoons and in the open Caribbean Sea. All interactions are voluntary for the animals and emphasize respectful, educational contact. The facility also runs multi-day youth courses and conducts marine-mammal research focused on health care, cognition, communication, and behavior. Amenities such as lockers, changing rooms, showers, towels-by-guest, parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi support a full-day visit for individuals, families, and certified divers alike. Dolphins participate in open-sea training sessions several times a week, often on an almost daily basis, further highlighting the academy’s focus on natural behavior and welfare. Liability insurance covers every participant, and staff members trained in first aid are present during all programs.

Offerings, Features, or Content

How It Works

  1. Select a program online and use the “Book Now” option, or book by phone (+5999 465 8900) or email (info@dolphin-academy.com).
  2. Pay the full program fee at the time of booking to confirm.
  3. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the stated check-in time for registration and a pre-experience briefing.
  4. Store personal belongings in complimentary lockers; changing rooms and showers are available (bring your own towel).
  5. Follow staff guidance for the chosen in-water activity; dolphins decide voluntarily how and when they engage.
  6. All programs are conducted during daytime hours; evening or sunset sessions are not offered.
  7. In the event of unsuitable weather or rough seas, the head trainer evaluates conditions and reschedules the activity.
  8. After the session, the professional photo team guides guests on how to view and purchase digital or printed photographs.

Audience & Use Cases

Practical Information

Key Entities and Definitions

Additional Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dolphin Academy Curaçao?

Dolphin Academy Curaçao is an experience-based facility in Willemstad where visitors can meet, swim, snorkel, or dive with trained dolphins in natural lagoons and the open sea.

Where is Dolphin Academy located?

The academy is situated at Bapor Kibra z/n, Willemstad, Curaçao, on the premises of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, close to Mambo Beach.

Which dolphin experiences can I choose from?

Available options include the Dolphin Encounter, Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Snorkel, Dolphin Scuba Encounter, and the Open Water Dolphin Dive.

What happens during the Dolphin Encounter?

While standing in waist-deep water, participants meet a dolphin up close and learn about the animal in a session designed for all ages. They learn about the dolphin’s life history, age, and “dolfinality,” as well as how they are cared for and what they are taught.

What is included in the Dolphin Swim experience?

Guests swim alongside dolphins in the academy’s natural lagoon, enjoying personal interaction and guided instruction. Participants are provided with flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask for an optimal experience. The dolphins choose when they want to interact, making each swim highly personal and unique.

What is the Dolphin Snorkel, and can I bring my own underwater camera?

Submerge yourself in the dolphins’ world and snorkel with these majestic animals in their natural lagoon! The Dolphin Snorkel is primarily focused on the underwater element of the experience of swimming with the dolphins. The dolphins will dive down alongside you and allow you to gently pet and interact with them underwater.

yes, you can bring your own waterproof camera because you will be able to take some beautiful underwater shots with the dolphins!

Does Dolphin Academy offer educational courses or programs, especially for youth?

Yes. Dolphin Academy provides several structured educational programs and multi-day courses that immerse participants in dolphin biology, behavior, communication, and training.

• Assistant Trainer Course (ages 9–14): A hands-on, multi-day program where children learn about dolphin care and training and even assist professional trainers during sessions.

• Dolphins in Depth Course: (ages 15+) An advanced, multi-day experience that dives deeper into training techniques and behavior analysis (currently unavailable; a restart date has not been announced).

• Additional youth programs such as Bayena i Dolfein and the Junior Vice President program offer further interactive learning opportunities.

These offerings combine classroom instruction with in-water or behind-the-scenes activities, giving young participants an engaging, in-depth introduction to the world of dolphins.

What makes Dolphin Academy different from other dolphin facilities?

It is one of the few centers worldwide that trains dolphins for open-sea sessions, and its interconnected lagoons receive a constant flow of fresh ocean water, reflecting its strong focus on animal welfare, education, and natural interaction.

Is the Dolphin Encounter suitable for children, and do participants need to know how to swim?

Yes! The Dolphin Encounter is designed for guests of all ages and takes place on a submerged platform in waist-deep water. Participants remain standing throughout the experience, so swimming skills are not required. Children can stand safely on the platform or be held by their parents or guardians. Please note that children under 1.30 m in height must be accompanied by a paying adult in order to participate

How can I book an experience?

You can reserve a spot by visiting dolphin-academy.com and clicking the “Book Now” option on the website, or by contacting the academy directly by phone at (+5999) 465 8900 or by email at info@dolphin-academy.com.

What phone number can I call for information or reservations?

For inquiries, call +5999 465 8900.

What is the email address for Dolphin Academy?

Send questions or booking requests to info@dolphin-academy.com.

Can Dolphin Academy handle group events or special requests?

Yes, a dedicated “Groups & Special Requests” offering accommodates larger parties and customized experiences, such as weddings and corporate events. A minimum of 10 participants is required.

What languages does the website support?

The site can be viewed in English, Dutch (NL), Spanish (ES), and Portuguese (Brazil).

Does Dolphin Academy conduct research?

Yes. Dolphin Academy conducts research on dolphins and marine life as part of its work in education and animal care. It also collaborates with external researchers and uses its findings to improve understanding, welfare, and training practices.

What is Dolphin Academy’s training philosophy?

The academy emphasizes open-sea training and genuine, respectful interaction, prioritizing the dolphins’ well-being while fostering learning for visitors.

Where do the dolphins live within the facility, and is their environment natural?

The dolphins reside in four primary lagoons on the premises of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium. These lagoons are interconnected by smaller basins and channels and are open to the ocean, allowing a constant flow of fresh seawater that brings in local fish and invertebrate species. This setup recreates a natural ocean environment for the dolphins while they are at the facility.

How can I apply to work at Dolphin Academy?

Prospective employees can explore opportunities through the “Join our team” section on the website.

Who benefits most from Dolphin Academy’s experiences?

People of all ages who wish to learn about and interact closely with dolphins—whether beginners, families, or certified divers—can find a suitable program.

What does the Assistant Trainer Course involve?

The Assistant Trainer Course is a multi-day program for children aged 9–14. Participants learn about dolphin biology, behavior, and training through classroom sessions and hands-on activities, including in-water experiences and helping during training sessions with professional trainers.

What is the Dolphins in Depth Course?

This multi-day program includes numerous interactive sessions that teach participants everything about dolphins through immersive, close-up encounters.

What is the Dolphin Scuba Encounter and do I need a dive certification?

The Dolphin Scuba Encounter allows guests to scuba dive underwater in the natural lagoon alongside a dolphin under professional supervision, and it does not require any prior dive certification. During the experience, you study the dolphin’s body and behavior up close. Non-certified divers receive a short introductory scuba lesson prior to the program.

What is Open Sea Training at Dolphin Academy?

Dolphin Academy is one of the few facilities worldwide that works with trained dolphins in the open sea. This approach lets dolphins interact with guests along a natural coral reef beyond the lagoons, emphasizing authentic, ocean-based experiences. The dolphins can enter the open sea on a voluntary basis several times a week, and almost daily.

How can I view photos taken during my dolphin experience?

Photos taken during your dolphin experience can usually be viewed and purchased through Dolphin Academy’s official photo service. After your program, you’ll receive instructions on where and how to access your pictures, often via an online gallery or at a photo desk on-site.
Staff will guide you right after your session, so you can easily find and select your photos to download or buy as prints.

How do the Assistant Trainer Course and the Dolphins in Depth Course differ?

The Assistant Trainer Course is designed for younger participants (ages 9–14) and focuses on being highly interactive and educational, giving kids a fun, hands-on introduction to dolphin care, behavior, and basic training.

The Dolphins in Depth Course is more advanced and goes further into how dolphins are trained, with a stronger focus on training techniques, behavior analysis, and deeper understanding of working with the animals.

How do the Dolphin Swim and Dolphin Snorkel experiences differ?

The Dolphin Swim and Dolphin Snorkel experiences both take place in the lagoon, but they offer different levels of interaction.
The Dolphin Swim focuses on close, personal interaction at the surface. You swim alongside the dolphins, receive guided instruction, and experience direct contact, with the dolphins choosing how and when they interact.
The Dolphin Snorkel is more focused on observing and interacting underwater. Using a mask and fins you snorkel in the lagoon, communicate with the dolphins below the surface, gently touch them, and learn about things like their sonar abilities through educational activities.

Do the dolphins choose whether to interact with guests during the programs?

Yes. In experiences like the Dolphin Swim and the open-sea sessions, the dolphins decide if and how they engage, ensuring that all interactions remain voluntary and respectful.

How often do the dolphins participate in open-sea sessions?

The dolphins may leave the lagoons to train and interact in the open sea several times a week, and they do so on an almost daily basis. Each excursion is voluntary for the dolphins and takes place along a natural coral reef.

Is on-site parking available for visitors, and is it free or paid?

On-site parking is available for visitors. A flat fee of $3 covers parking for the entire day.

Are lockers, changing rooms, or other secure storage facilities available, and can they accommodate large luggage?

Yes. Complimentary lockers, changing rooms, and shower facilities are available for all participants. The lockers are suitable for small to medium personal items only and cannot accommodate large luggage or oversized belongings.

Is Dolphin Academy open year-round, and what are its operating hours?

Dolphin Academy operates year-round. It is open to guests Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

How early should participants arrive before their scheduled dolphin experience for check-in and briefing?

Participants should arrive at least 15 minutes before their designated check-in time. This allows sufficient time for registration and the pre-experience briefing.

Do participants need to sign a liability waiver or medical disclaimer before taking part in dolphin experiences?

The information is not available in the knowledge base.

What is the policy if bad weather or rough sea conditions occur on the day of a scheduled dolphin experience?

The head trainer evaluates the weather and sea conditions on the day of the program. If conditions are unsuitable, the experience will be rescheduled.

How do the Dolphin Encounter and Dolphin Swim experiences differ?

During the Dolphin Encounter, guests stand on a submerged platform in waist-deep water, making the program suitable for all ages and for visitors who don’t wish to swim. The Dolphin Swim takes place in the natural lagoon, where participants actively swim alongside the dolphins using provided fins, mask, and swim vest for closer in-water interaction.

What is the difference between the Dolphin Scuba Encounter and the Open Water Dolphin Dive, and what certification is required?

The Dolphin Scuba Encounter takes place inside the natural lagoon and does not require any dive certification; non-certified guests receive a short introductory scuba lesson before entering the water. The Open Water Dolphin Dive is conducted in the open sea along a beautiful coral reef, and participants must present a valid dive certification. During the open-water dive, the dolphins are free to decide how they interact—whether that means chasing fish on the reef or swimming directly alongside you—making each encounter unique.

Does Dolphin Academy sell gift certificates or vouchers for its experiences?

Yes. Dolphin Academy sells gift certificates for its experiences, which can be purchased at the on-site counter.

Is there an on-site gift shop where visitors can buy souvenirs or dolphin-themed merchandise?

Yes, on-site shopping is available. The park houses two souvenir shops where visitors can purchase dolphin-themed merchandise and other gifts.

Does Dolphin Academy offer behind-the-scenes or trainer-for-a-day programs for adults?

Dolphin Academy currently does not offer any behind-the-scenes experiences for adults. Trainer-for-a-day programs are also unavailable.

Are discounts available, including special resident discounts for Curaçao citizens?

A resident discount is available to individuals living in Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, and Sint Maarten; to qualify, guests must present a valid “sedula” (local ID card). The website’s Discounts section lists any additional special pricing options that may be available.

Can Dolphin Academy experiences be bundled with Curaçao Sea Aquarium admission in a combined ticket or package?

Admission to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium Park is automatically included with any Dolphin Academy experience booking. No separate aquarium ticket is required.

Is on-site medical or first-aid staff available during dolphin programs?

Yes, staff members with first-aid training are present on-site during dolphin programs.

Are restrooms and baby-changing facilities available on site for families with young children?

Yes. The site provides restrooms and dedicated baby-changing facilities for families with young children.

Is complimentary Wi-Fi available for visitors at Dolphin Academy?

Yes. Dolphin Academy offers complimentary Wi-Fi to all visitors.

Can Dolphin Academy accommodate guests who book on the same day (walk-ins), or is advance reservation always required?

Dolphin Academy requires guests to secure their bookings in advance. Same-day walk-ins cannot be accommodated, particularly during high season.

Does Dolphin Academy provide towels for participants, or should guests bring their own?

Dolphin Academy does not supply towels for its programs. Guests should therefore bring their own towels.

Are lockers complimentary for participants, or is there a rental fee?

Lockers are provided free of charge for all guests, although their capacity is limited and cannot accommodate large or oversized luggage.

How long has Dolphin Academy been in operation?

The academy is currently celebrating its 24th anniversary, marking 24 years of dolphin experiences in Curaçao.

Where can I find Dolphin Academy’s Cancellation Policy and Privacy Policy?

Both documents are available on Dolphin Academy’s official website under the Information section, listed as “Cancellation Policy” and “Privacy Policy.”

Does Dolphin Academy offer an advanced (Level II) option for the Assistant Trainer Course?

Yes. The website lists “Course Assistant Trainer – Level II Day 1 (EN),” confirming that a Level II version of the Assistant Trainer Course is available in addition to the standard program.

Which research topics does Dolphin Academy focus on?

According to the Research section, Dolphin Academy conducts studies on dolphin health care, cognition, communication, and behavior, often collaborating with external scientists to advance marine-mammal knowledge.

Does Dolphin Academy collaborate with outside researchers or institutions?

Yes. The Research page notes that Dolphin Academy works with visiting scientists and partner institutions on joint projects that study dolphin biology, health, and behavior.

What is the Bayena i Dolfein educational program?

Bayena i Dolfein is a youth‐focused course that introduces participants to whales and dolphins through classroom lessons, hands-on activities, and direct observation of the animals at Dolphin Academy. The program emphasizes biology, conservation, and responsible interaction with marine mammals.

Which scientific themes are covered by Dolphin Academy’s research team?

The Research section notes that Dolphin Academy’s projects examine dolphin health care, cognition, communication, and behavior. The academy often partners with external scientists to advance these fields and apply findings to animal welfare and training practices.

Is smoking or vaping permitted anywhere on the premises, and are there designated smoking areas?

Smoking and vaping are allowed on-site solely within the designated smoking areas. These activities are prohibited in all other locations on the premises.

Are pets or service animals allowed inside Dolphin Academy and the Curaçao Sea Aquarium complex?

Only service dogs are permitted inside Dolphin Academy and the Curaçao Sea Aquarium complex. All medical and veterinary documentation must be submitted in advance for review by the facility’s veterinarian.

Is a booking deposit required when reserving an experience, and when is final payment due?

Full payment is required at the time the reservation is made to confirm the booking. Because the entire balance is collected upfront, no further payment is due.

What are the operating hours of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium for visitors whose admission is included with Dolphin Academy bookings?

The Curaçao Sea Aquarium operates Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (17:00). Guests whose Dolphin Academy booking includes aquarium admission may visit during these hours.

Are there scheduled dolphin shows or educational presentations that visitors can watch without booking an in-water experience?

The information is not available in the knowledge base.

Are guests ever allowed to feed the dolphins during any of the programs, and if so, under what guidelines?

Guests are not permitted to feed the dolphins during any Dolphin Academy program. This policy applies without exception to all experiences.

Are unaccompanied minors allowed to participate in Dolphin Academy experiences, and if so, what consent or supervision requirements apply?

Children under 1.30 metres in height may not participate unaccompanied. They must be accompanied by a paying adult for all Dolphin Academy experiences.

Does Dolphin Academy provide or require any accident or liability insurance coverage for participants during water activities?

Dolphin Academy maintains liability insurance that covers participants during water activities. This coverage applies to all water-related programs.

Are there multiple levels within the Assistant Trainer Course, and what prerequisites or age requirements apply to each level?

The Assistant Trainer Course is available in two tiers—Level 1 and Level 2. Enrollment requires participants to be at least 9 years old and a minimum of 1.30 m tall.

Does Dolphin Academy offer evening or sunset dolphin experiences, or are all programs limited to daytime hours?

Dolphin Academy currently offers all dolphin programs exclusively during daytime hours and does not provide evening or sunset sessions. The academy continuously reviews guest feedback when considering future enhancements.

Are drone or aerial photography devices permitted anywhere on the premises or during dolphin programs?

Drone and other aerial photography devices are prohibited throughout the premises and during all dolphin programs for the safety of both dolphins and guests. A professional photography team is available to capture participants’ in-water experiences.

What is Dolphin Academy’s policy regarding alcohol consumption before participating in in-water dolphin experiences?

Participants under the influence of alcohol are not permitted to join any in-water dolphin experience. This policy safeguards the safety of guests and the well-being of the dolphins.

Can Dolphin Academy gift certificates be purchased online and delivered by email, or are they only sold on-site?

Dolphin Academy offers gift certificates in two formats. Digital certificates may be purchased online and delivered by email, while physical certificates are available for purchase on-site.

What is the maximum depth reached during the Open Water Dolphin Dive experience?

Participants in the Open Water Dolphin Dive descend to a maximum depth of approximately 10–12 meters. This depth allows for a unique and unforgettable encounter with the dolphins in their natural open-water environment.

Are there special rates or customized programs available for school field trips or other educational group visits?

Dolphin Academy provides special rates for school field trips and other educational groups. Customized programs are available to meet specific learning goals; please contact the Academy directly to discuss group pricing and tailored options.

How far in advance is it recommended to book Dolphin Academy experiences, especially during peak tourist seasons?

Guests are advised to reserve their Dolphin Academy experience at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons when availability fills quickly. Early booking increases the likelihood of securing the preferred date and program.

What accommodations are available for guests with hearing or visual impairments, such as sign-language interpretation or tactile learning aids?

Dolphin Academy is committed to providing inclusive and accessible experiences. Guests with hearing or visual impairments are encouraged to contact the Academy in advance to discuss their specific needs and arrange appropriate accommodations.