Guest Gear Guide: Flippers, Vests & Masks – The Equipment Behind Every Dolphin Swim

If you’re gearing up for a Dolphin Swim in Curaçao, you’re probably wondering what you’ll need, how it all fits, and how the right equipment enhances both safety and connection. At Dolphin Academy Curaçao, flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask are provided so you can focus on the moment—meeting and swimming alongside dolphins in a natural lagoon—while enjoying comfort, confidence, and clear views.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what’s included, why each item matters, and how to get the most from your gear. You’ll also find quick answers about booking, on-site amenities, and related experiences like the Dolphin Snorkel and the Open Water Dolphin Dive.

What gear is provided for the Dolphin Swim?

For every Dolphin Swim at Dolphin Academy Curaçao, participants receive:

• Flippers (fins)
• A swim vest
• A diving mask

This equipment supports a relaxed, interactive experience in the academy’s natural lagoon, where dolphins choose when and how to engage—making every swim personal and unique.

How each piece of gear enhances your Dolphin Swim

Flippers: effortless glide and calm, efficient movement

Flippers increase propulsion with smaller, slower kicks, helping you glide smoothly without splashing or straining. That means less fatigue and more time to enjoy gentle, natural movements alongside the dolphins. Efficient finning also helps you maintain a comfortable position as trainers guide you through the interaction.

Swim vest: buoyancy, comfort, and focus on the moment

A swim vest provides gentle buoyancy so you can float comfortably at the surface and keep your attention on the dolphins and trainer-led activities. Staying buoyant and relaxed promotes safer, calmer body language—ideal for an encounter that prioritizes respectful, voluntary interaction from the dolphins.

Diving mask: clarity and confidence in natural seawater

A well-fitted mask gives you clear vision just below the surface, reducing eye and nasal irritation while improving comfort and awareness. Because Dolphin Academy’s lagoons are connected to the ocean with a constant flow of fresh seawater, you’ll appreciate the visibility and ease a mask provides as you observe dolphins moving naturally in their environment.

Safety, comfort, and animal welfare: a gear-first approach

• Voluntary interaction: In the Dolphin Swim and open-sea sessions, dolphins decide how they interact. This puts animal welfare first and makes every encounter unique.
• No feeding policy: Guests are not permitted to feed the dolphins during any program.
• Professional guidance: The Dolphin Swim includes guided instruction, so you know how to move, signal, and interact respectfully.
• First-aid readiness: Staff members with first-aid training are present on-site during dolphin programs.
• Natural seawater: The interconnected lagoons are in contact with the ocean, allowing a constant flow of fresh seawater—no chlorination.
• Alcohol policy: For safety, participants under the influence of alcohol cannot join any in-water experience.

Quick answers for fast planners (featured snippet-ready)

• What gear is provided for the Dolphin Swim? Flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask are provided for all participants.
• Do I need to bring a towel? Yes. Towels are not provided, so bring your own.
• Are lockers available? Yes. Lockers are complimentary for guests, with limited capacity (not for oversized luggage).
• Is aquarium admission included? Yes. Curaçao Sea Aquarium Park admission is included with any Dolphin Academy experience booking.
• What about parking? On-site parking is available for a flat $3 for the entire day.
• Is Wi‑Fi available? Yes. Complimentary Wi‑Fi is available for visitors.
• Can I bring a drone? No. Drones and aerial devices are prohibited on the premises and during all programs.
• Are service animals allowed? Only service dogs are permitted, with medical/veterinary documentation submitted in advance for review.
• Do I need to book in advance? Yes. Advance reservation is required (same-day walk-ins cannot be accommodated, especially in high season). Booking is recommended at least two weeks in advance during peak seasons.
• When do I pay? Full payment is required at the time of reservation to confirm your booking.
• When is the Curaçao Sea Aquarium open? Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (17:00) for guests whose admission is included with a Dolphin Academy booking.

Practical tips to get the most from your gear

Fit and comfort

• Flippers: Choose a snug, comfortable fit that stays secure without pinching. Ask a team member to help you confirm the right size if you’re unsure.
• Swim vest: Adjust straps so the vest sits close to your torso without riding up. You should float easily while still moving your arms freely.
• Mask: Position the mask evenly on your face and adjust the strap so it’s secure but not too tight. Smooth away hair caught under the seal to prevent leaks.

Movement and body language

• Kick from the hips: Use long, relaxed kicks with minimal knee bend. This creates steady momentum and keeps splashing to a minimum.
• Relax your arms: Keep your hands by your sides or glide gently. Calm, streamlined posture helps you stay comfortable and enhances the encounter.
• Follow trainer guidance: Listen for simple cues that make interaction smooth for both you and the dolphins.

What to bring and how to prepare

• Towel and essentials: Bring your own towel and pack light to fit locker space.
• Booking documents: If you’re eligible for the resident discount (Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Sint Maarten), bring your valid sedula (local ID).
• Cameras: If you’re planning a Dolphin Snorkel, you may bring your own waterproof camera for beautiful underwater shots. A professional photography team is available for in-water experiences across programs.
• Arrival & setup: Plan time for check-in, gear fitting, and a briefing. Avoid alcohol beforehand (required for participation) and hydrate normally.
• Transport & parking: Budget for $3 all-day parking on site.

How gear and interaction style vary across experiences

Choosing the right program depends on how you want to experience the dolphins—and how much time you want to spend at the surface versus underwater.

• Dolphin Swim (natural lagoon): You’ll be at the surface with flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask provided. Expect close, personal interaction, guided by instructors. The dolphins choose how and when to engage.

• Dolphin Snorkel (natural lagoon): Focuses on underwater observation and interaction using a mask and fins. You can communicate with dolphins below the surface, gently touch them, and learn about aspects of their abilities through educational activities. Personal waterproof cameras are allowed for this experience.

• Dolphin Scuba Encounter (natural lagoon): No certification required. Non-certified guests receive a short introductory scuba lesson before entering the water. You’ll get up close underwater and study the dolphin’s body and behavior under professional supervision.

• Open Water Dolphin Dive (open sea): Requires a valid dive certification. Conducted along a natural coral reef, with the dolphins deciding how to interact—sometimes chasing fish, sometimes swimming alongside you. Maximum depth is approximately 10–12 meters.

If you’re not planning to swim, the Dolphin Encounter offers a wonderful alternative in waist-deep water on a submerged platform—great for all ages and for guests who prefer to remain standing throughout.

Plan your Dolphin Swim at Dolphin Academy Curaçao

• Where you’ll be: Dolphin Academy Curaçao is located at Bapor Kibra z/n, Willemstad, Curaçao, on the premises of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, close to Mambo Beach. The dolphins live in interconnected lagoons that receive a constant flow of ocean water.
• A different philosophy: The academy is among the few places worldwide that trains dolphins for open-sea sessions, reflecting a commitment to natural interaction and education.
• Booking and contact: Reserve your spot at dolphin-academy.com (Book Now), or contact the team at +5999 465 8900 or info@dolphin-academy.com.
• Groups and gifting: Planning a group event or special request? A dedicated option supports larger parties (minimum 10 participants). Gift certificates are available in digital (online, via email) and physical formats (on-site).
• On-site extras: Browse two souvenir shops for dolphin-themed keepsakes and enjoy complimentary Wi‑Fi during your visit.

Takeaways: make your gear work for you

• The Dolphin Swim includes flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask—all you need for a calm, confident experience in a natural lagoon.
• Relaxed, efficient movement (long, gentle fin kicks, buoyant posture) improves comfort and connection.
• Follow trainer guidance and respect the dolphins’ choices—interactions are voluntary and unique.
• Bring a towel, pack light for lockers, and plan for $3 all-day parking.
• Book in advance (ideally two weeks in peak seasons) and complete payment at the time of reservation.

Conclusion

The right gear turns a good dolphin encounter into a great one. With flippers, a swim vest, and a diving mask provided for every Dolphin Swim at Dolphin Academy Curaçao, you’ll float comfortably, move efficiently, and see clearly—so you can focus on what matters most: genuine, respectful interaction with dolphins in their natural lagoon.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your Dolphin Swim at dolphin-academy.com, or contact +5999 465 8900 or info@dolphin-academy.com. Bring your towel, pack light, and get set for an unforgettable day in Curaçao.