Weather or Waves? Understanding Dolphin Academy’s Bad Weather Rescheduling Policy
Planning a once-in-a-lifetime dolphin experience and wondering what happens if the wind picks up or the sea turns rough? Here’s exactly how the Dolphin Academy bad weather rescheduling policy works, so you can book with confidence and know what to expect if Curaçao’s conditions change on the day of your program.
Quick answer: What happens if the weather is bad?
- The head trainer evaluates the weather and sea conditions on the day of the program.
- If conditions are unsuitable, the experience will be rescheduled.
This approach prioritizes guest safety and animal well-being, while preserving the quality of your dolphin encounter, swim, snorkel, scuba, or open-sea dive.
Policy at a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who decides? | The head trainer assesses conditions on the day. |
| What triggers a change? | Unsuitable weather or sea conditions. |
| What happens next? | Your experience is rescheduled. |
Why conditions matter for your safety and the dolphins’ well-being
Dolphin Academy is one of the few facilities worldwide that works with trained dolphins in the open sea. The dolphins live in four primary lagoons connected to the ocean, with a constant flow of fresh seawater and local marine life.
- Open-sea sessions along a natural coral reef can be affected by ocean swell and visibility.
- Lagoon programs also depend on safe, comfortable conditions for participants and dolphins.
- In all programs, interactions are designed to be genuine and respectful; dolphins choose how they engage, making each experience unique.
From a safety perspective, rough seas can reduce visibility and increase currents. For animal welfare, calmer conditions support low-stress, high-quality interactions. Rescheduling protects both outcomes: your safety and the authentic, educational encounters Dolphin Academy is known for.
How the same-day evaluation works
The assessment is simple and decisive: on the day of your scheduled program, the head trainer checks the weather and sea conditions and determines whether it’s suitable to proceed. If it isn’t, your session will be rescheduled.
What might be considered in a typical marine setting?
- Sea state and swell: Can participants move and interact comfortably and safely?
- Wind and surface chop: Will it disrupt briefing, in-water communication, or guest comfort?
- Visibility and surge: Is there clear sight for trainers, guests, and dolphins—especially for underwater programs?
- Thunderstorms or lightning: Safety comes first for all guests and staff.
Note: Conditions can vary throughout the day. The on-the-day evaluation ensures the decision reflects the most current, local reality.
What to expect if your program is rescheduled
If the head trainer deems conditions unsuitable, the team will reschedule your experience. You’ll work with staff to choose a new time or date that fits your plans and operational availability.
Helpful details for planning:
- Dolphin Academy operates Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and runs year-round.
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your designated check-in time for registration and a pre-experience briefing.
- On-site parking is available for visitors for a flat fee of $3 for the entire day.
- Lockers, changing rooms, and shower facilities are available for all participants.
If you have questions on the day of your program, you can contact the team at +5999 465 8900 or info@dolphin-academy.com.
How the policy applies across different experiences
All experiences follow the same principle—if conditions are unsuitable, the program is rescheduled. The way conditions affect each activity can differ:
- Dolphin Encounter (waist-deep lagoon): Designed for all ages and non-swimmers. While protected compared to open sea, the lagoon must still be safe and comfortable for participants and dolphins.
- Dolphin Swim (lagoon): Involves guided, surface-level interaction. Choppy water or reduced visibility may prompt rescheduling to maintain a relaxed, educational experience.
- Dolphin Snorkel (lagoon): Focused on underwater interaction. Underwater visibility and water movement are key considerations; rescheduling preserves the quality of your time below the surface. You may bring your own waterproof camera.
- Dolphin Scuba Encounter (lagoon): No dive certification is required. Non-certified divers receive a short introductory scuba lesson prior to the program. Underwater clarity and calm conditions support safe supervision and meaningful observation.
- Open Water Dolphin Dive (open sea): Requires a valid dive certification. Open-ocean sessions along a coral reef are the most sensitive to swell or visibility changes; rescheduling ensures both diver safety and authentic, voluntary interaction with the dolphins.
Practical planning tips to stay flexible
Use these simple steps to make the most of your day—even if the forecast looks uncertain:
- Build flexibility into your itinerary. Consider scheduling your dolphin program earlier in your trip to allow room for rescheduling if needed.
- Keep your phone and email handy. If you’re out exploring Willemstad or Mambo Beach nearby, be reachable for updates.
- Arrive early. Get to check-in at least 15 minutes before your designated time to complete registration and review briefings without rushing.
- Dress for changing conditions. Lightweight layers and sun protection help you stay comfortable as weather shifts.
- Use on-site amenities. Store valuables in lockers and freshen up in changing rooms and showers after your program.
- Park on-site. A $3 flat day fee makes coming and going easy if your schedule adjusts.
- Know the program requirements. A valid dive certification is required for the Open Water Dolphin Dive; other underwater programs provide the gear and guidance you need.
- Respect the dolphins’ rhythm. Interactions are voluntary for the dolphins and tailored to their behavior, which can vary with sea conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be notified in advance if conditions look rough?
The evaluation happens on the day of your program. If you’re unsure about conditions, call +5999 465 8900 or email info@dolphin-academy.com for guidance.
Does this policy mean cancellations?
If conditions are unsuitable, the experience will be rescheduled. For general terms, see the Cancellation Policy section on the website.
Are programs offered year-round?
Yes. Dolphin Academy operates year-round and is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your designated check-in time for registration and a pre-experience briefing.
Is parking available, and what does it cost?
Yes. On-site parking is available for visitors at a flat fee of $3 for the entire day.
Are there lockers, changing rooms, and showers?
Yes. Lockers, changing rooms, and shower facilities are available for all participants.
Do dolphins choose whether to interact with guests?
Yes. In experiences such as the Dolphin Swim and open-sea sessions, the dolphins decide if and how they engage, keeping interactions voluntary and respectful.
Related experiences and pages to explore
- Dolphin Encounter
- Dolphin Swim
- Dolphin Snorkel
- Dolphin Scuba Encounter
- Open Water Dolphin Dive
- Open Sea Training
- Our Philosophy
- Groups & Special Requests
- Your Photos
- Cancellation Policy
- Contact
Conclusion: Plan with confidence—even when the forecast shifts
Marine conditions can change quickly, but the Dolphin Academy bad weather rescheduling policy ensures your experience remains safe, respectful, and rewarding. If the head trainer determines conditions are unsuitable on the day, your program will be rescheduled—so you don’t miss the chance to connect with dolphins in their natural lagoon or, when conditions allow, along a beautiful coral reef.
Ready to book or have questions about your upcoming visit? Book now on dolphin-academy.com, call +5999 465 8900, or email info@dolphin-academy.com. We look forward to welcoming you to Bapor Kibra z/n, Willemstad, Curaçao.