Puerto Morelos: Swim with Dolphins

If you’re dreaming of hanging out with dolphins in Mexico, the Puerto Morelos swim with dolphins experience might catch your eye. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but we’ve researched it thoroughly to give you an honest, detailed look at what you can expect. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a partner, or just yourself and love marine mammals, this is a chance to get close to these playful creatures in a safe setting.

One thing we appreciate about this experience is the variety of programs offered—whether you want a quick splash, a gentle ride, or a longer, more interactive session, there’s something for different comfort levels. Plus, the focus on educational activities like learning about dolphin physiology and behavior adds value beyond just the fun. That said, a potential consideration is that cameras and phones are not allowed in the habitat, which might be disappointing if you’re hoping to capture memories.

This tour seems well-suited for families, couples, or anyone looking for a memorable marine encounter in a controlled environment. If you’re after a structured, safe way to interact with dolphins, and you’re okay with the $50 MXN tax and not having access to hotel amenities, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Interactive Dolphin Encounters: You get to meet and physically interact with dolphins, including petting and kissing them.
• Multiple Program Options: Choose from Harmony, Interax, or Primax, each offering different durations, activities, and group sizes.
• Educational Content: Learn about dolphins’ physiology, anatomy, and behavior during the session.
• Water Activity: Expect to spend time in the water, with the longest program offering 45 minutes of dolphin interaction plus a snorkel.
• Pricing and Inclusions: The tour costs $119 per person, with clear options depending on how much time and activity you want.
• Restrictions: No cameras or phones in the habitat for safety reasons; photography is available for purchase afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

If you’re picturing a typical dolphin encounter, the Puerto Morelos experience aims to make it engaging and educational. The tour takes place in a marina setting at Hotel El Cid Marina Spa & Resort, so you won’t be staying at the hotel but will meet at this specific location for your session.

What You Can Expect

Once you arrive, you’ll check in and pay a small tax of $50 MXN (about $2.50 USD), which is standard for activities involving aquatic animals in Quintana Roo. The group size is kept intimate—up to 10 participants in the Harmony program, smaller for the more involved Primax—ensuring personal attention and safety.

The program begins with a welcome, followed by a mix of educational activities—discussing dolphin physiology, anatomy, and their behaviors. This educational component adds a layer of understanding and respect for these intelligent mammals, which we always appreciate in such tours.

Activity Breakdown

• Harmony Program: Features 10 activities and about 20 minutes in the water, suitable if you prefer a shorter experience or are traveling with younger children.
• Interax Program: Offers 14 activities over 30 minutes in the water, a nice middle ground.
• Primax Program: The most comprehensive, with 18 activities plus 45 minutes in the water, ideal for those who want deep interaction. It also includes a 15-minute dolphin snorkel—a wonderful chance to see the dolphins in a different setting.

What’s Special About the Activities?

During your time, you’ll likely experience dolphin kisses, learn about their behavior, and participate in games and activities designed to entertain as well as educate. According to reviews, many participants find the dolphins friendly and eager to interact, which makes the experience genuinely rewarding.

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Practical Details

• The tour duration is 45 minutes in total, which includes briefing and activity time.
• The meeting point is in the marina, and transportation isn’t included—so plan to arrange your own.
• The tour runs usually in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility to your schedule.
• Group size is small, which tends to lead to more personalized interactions.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $119 per person, this is a mid-range price considering the duration and activities included. For animal interaction tours, this price point offers a good balance of value—you’re getting a decent amount of time in the water, multiple activities, and an educational component. Plus, the photo/video service is available for purchase afterward, which can be helpful if you want to keep a visual record without risking your device in the water.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews highlight how friendly and attentive the staff are, ensuring safety and fun. One reviewer mentioned, “The dolphins were adorable and very playful; the whole experience was well-organized.” Others appreciate the small group size that allows for more personal attention.

On the downside, some note that no cameras are allowed in the habitat, which can be frustrating if you want to capture spontaneous moments. However, photos are available for purchase afterward, so if you’re willing to wait and pay a little extra, you can still get good shots.

Another common remark is that the program is suited for a wide range of ages, making it a great choice for families or older travelers wanting a calmer, educational experience. But be aware that because it takes place in a marina setting, there’s limited access to hotel amenities, which might matter if you’re expecting a full day at the resort.

Important Considerations

• Not included: Use of hotel facilities, food, drinks, and transportation. You need to make arrangements for those separately.
• Additional fee: A small tax of $50 MXN per person is collected at check-in.
• What to bring: Be sure to carry beachwear and your passport or ID.
• Not allowed: Jewelry and cellphones—especially in the water—to protect the dolphins and for safety.
• Language: The activity is offered in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to most travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Morelos dolphin tour offers a well-rounded, educational experience that balances fun with learning. The variety of programs means you can choose based on how much time and interaction you’re after, making it flexible for different preferences and energy levels.

If you’re a marine enthusiast, a family looking for a memorable activity, or someone simply eager to meet a dolphin up close, this tour seems to deliver on those fronts. It’s not a wild adventure in the open ocean, but rather a controlled, safe environment where you can genuinely connect with these remarkable animals.

The small group sizes, educational focus, and variety of programs make it a compelling option. Just keep in mind the restrictions on photography and the need to arrange your own transportation. If those aren’t deal-breakers, you’ll find this a rewarding experience that many travelers come away describing as a highlight of their trip.

FAQ

Is there a limit to the number of participants?
Yes, the maximum is 10 in the Harmony program, 6 in Interax, and 4 in Primax, ensuring a more personal experience.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a set number of activities, water time, and educational content based on the program you select. Photos and videos are available for purchase afterward.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity lasts about 45 minutes in total, with the longest program offering 45 minutes in the water plus various activities.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be entertaining and educational for all ages, especially families, but always check with the provider if you have very young children.

Are there any safety restrictions?
Cameras and cellphones are not allowed in the habitat for safety and animal protection reasons.

Where is the meeting point?
In the marina at Hotel El Cid Marina Spa & Resort. Transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, pack beachwear and bring your passport or ID. Jewelry and cellphones are best left behind.

If you’re considering this dolphin encounter, weigh your preferences for water-based activities, the importance of educational content, and your comfort with the restrictions. It’s a good option for a safe, memorable dolphin experience in Puerto Morelos.

You can check availability for your dates here: