Spotting a dolphin in the wild is rare, and although these mammals are mostly appreciated in their natural habitat; your chances of actually encountering a dolphin and swimming with one are not so probable. If you’re an animal lover looking to spend some time with one of the most intelligent aquatic animals, a trip to Mediterraneo Marine Park should definitely make it into your holiday itinerary.

Visiting Mediterraneo Marine Park is a magical experience, and swimming with the dolphins instills an intense love, soaring admiration and the ultimate respect for these creatures. Spending some time with Cha and Ninu the seven-year-old bottlenose dolphins is an experience that fills you with an overwhelming feeling of excitement. The animal carers at the park are well informed and explain the process in a step-by-step manner; indicating the dos and don’ts when it comes to handling a dolphin.

My experience was brought to life by Cha, a gentle and magnificent bottlenose whose charming looks and elegant demeanor make you feel at complete ease when you're in the water with him. Accompanied by his carer at all times; Cha was instructed to show off his skills and interact with the crowd, and he willingly performed his tricks in hopes of a well-deserved fishy treat. During the swim, Cha was rewarded with fish and ice; training treats that both nourish and hydrate the dolphins while they enjoy their daily performances.

The experience started in a seawater pool where eager swimmers made their way to the dolphin’s den; completely oblivious to the spectacular experience they were about to be a part of. As final instructions were given by the carers; the dolphins were slowly introduced to the crowd: Cha was welcomed by one group while Ninu was introduced to the other.

Having never met a dolphin before; Cha seemed large to me at first; but his energy was strong and he established an instant connection with the crowd. He allowed us to stroke him and run our hands along his back; steering clear of the face to protect his eyes, ears and blowhole (which serves as the dolphin’s nose). Once familiarity struck, Cha became more confident and was eager to show off his skills, speaking to the crowd by creating clicking noises and underwater whistles that made us more sensitive to the delicate animal’s needs.

Among Cha’s many skills, the crowd, especially the younger swimmers were most impressed by his elegant leaps and flips, splashing water onto the spectators with every head nod and shake. We also had the opportunity to watch the dolphins swim underwater, and their backwards swims, underwater communication and swift moves under our feet left us speechless. The session came to an end with a professional photo session, through which memories of the occasion could be treasured and shared with others.

Looking back, my overall experience of swimming with the dolphins at Mediterraneo was an educational one, with eye-opening insight into the ocean’s highly intelligent ambassadors which protect our wildlife, guide our fishermen and provide a world of happiness to the lucky few who meet them up close and personal in CITES accredited parks such as this one. 

Alan Carville