Discovery Cove Orlando Ulitmate Guide

This Post will let you know what to expect when visiting Discovery Cove, Orlando

What can you do at Discovery Cove Orlando?

Discovery Cove is an aquatic theme park in Orlando Florida. It is a very different experience to your other theme parks. Imagine relaxing in a tropical paradise, snorkelling with rays and tropical fish. You can also hand feed exotic tropical birds. It is an all inclusive package that includes all your meals, drinks and snacks. This experience was a little pricey but worth it. The day I spent at Discovery Cove was my favourite day of our trip to Florida and we will definitely be visiting again.

What is included in your Discovery Cove Package?

The day ticket is an all-inclusive experience that allows you to explore the Wind-away river, Serenity Bay, The Grand Reef, The Freshwater Oasis and The Explorers Avery. It also includes all your meals, drinks and snacks.

Wind-Away River

Wind-Away River Is a fresh water lazy river which is great for relaxing. You will be taken by a mild current gently through beautiful waterfalls and an underwater cave. You will pass by sandy beaches where you can stop and unwind. There is also an avairy that you will pass through where you can see tropical exotic birds which fly over head. The wind-away river was one of my favourite experiences during my day at Discovery cove. I found it so relaxing to swim in the crystal clear waters which allowed me to gently drift where the current took me.

Serenity Bay

Serenity Bay – this is the resort pool where you can relax in 85 degree temperature water, surrounded by palm trees and waterfalls. There is also a white sandy beach to enjoy the tropical scenery.

The Grand Reef

The Grand Reef – discover hidden grottos and coves, swim and snorkel in the grand reef with tropical fish. This experience is one not to be missed. There are thousands of tropical fish such as rays, blue surgeonfish, yellow tang and many more.

There is a small bridge where you can stand and watch the sharks swimming underneath or if you are swimming in the Grand Reef you can see them swimming through the glass that divides the pools. This experience is incredible.

Freshwater Oasis

Freshwater Oasis you will get the opportunity to swim side by side otters and marasets in the freshwater oasis. Make sure you take with you (supplied by Discovery Cove), your snorkel to swim under the water and watch the otters playing alongside tropical fish. You can also see the marmosets above in the rain forest canopy.

Explorers Avairy

Explorers Avairy is a must do during your visit. There are hundreds of tropical birds that fly above you in the avairy. You are able to feed the birds with their favourite foods and there are knowledgeable trainers there if you would like to ask any questions.

• Wet suit or swim vest
• Snorkel gear
• Towels
• Changing facilities
• Food and Drinks – Unlimited snacks, prepared foods, non-alcoholic drinks, a selection of beers and wines for adults over the age of 21.
• Suncream – which has been specially formulated so that it is safe for the animals
• Lockers
• Parking- Free all day parking

Additionally, when you buy your ticket for Discovery Cove, it will also include free admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica.

Dolphin Swim Package

The Dolphin swim package is a 30 minute encounter with a Bottle-nose dolphin which you can purchase as an upgraded package with your entry ticket. Your experience will begin by getting to know the dolphin in shallow water.

The trainer will explain about the behaviour of dolphins and you are given the opportunity throughout the encounter to ask questions.

The Dolphin will then participate in some enrichment activities such as waving its tail and other activities. After that your trainer will take you into the deeper water where you are given the opportunity to interact with the dolphin individually. You are able to hold on to the dolphins dorsal fin and swim with the dolphin and there are opportunities to have a photo.

Experience Upgrades

Shark Swim This experience allows you to swim in the shark habitat with up to 20 sharks. Whilst wearing your snorkel and mask you will be able to swim with the sharks. A trainer will teach you all about the behaviours of sharks and allow you to ask any questions you may have. Prices start at $169

Seaventure This under water walking tour is 45 minutes long and you are able to explore the Grand Reef whist wearing a diving helmet.

You will be given the opportunity to feed schools of fish and see all the fish that swim in the Grand Reef. The upgrade package starts at $49.

Flamingo Mingle I loved the flamingo mingle, I was able to walk with the flamingos to their feeding spot where I was able to feed the flamingos and spend time with them.

There is also a knowledgeable trainer who will give you lots of information about the flamingos. You are then able to take photos with them. It is an experience you will treasure forever! This upgrade costs from $59

Cabanas and Day Beds – You can upgrade your package with a private cabana for the day. Prices range from $299 to $599

Premium drinks – This package upgrade includes frozen cocktails, beer, wines or their signature drinks. You must be 21 years old or older and bring identification. This package is $45 per person

Things to know

Arrive at the park around 7.00 am if you are going to experience the dolphin interaction, ray feeding or flamingo mingle.

For the trainer for the day you will need to arrive at 7.45am in the reception and for the shark swim you will need to arrive before 9.00am. This will give you plenty of time to complete your waivers before the interactions begin.

After you have checked in you can enjoy breakfast at Laguna Grill which is served between 7.30am to 10.30am which is included with your entry. The waterways open at 9.00am and close at 5.00pm. Lunch is served between 11.00am and 3.30pm. There are snacks and drinks available all day I loved the pretzels and lemonade slushy.

For all members of your group who are over the age of 18, you will need to bring with you a drivers licence or passport for identification. Don’t forget to bring a credit card if you are wanting to purchase the photo package or any souvenirs.

Spending the day at Discovery Cove was my favourite day in Orlando. I would highly recommend the dolphin swim, this was on my bucket list and it definitely didn’t disappoint. The flamingo Mingle was such a fun and unique experience, that I would have never imagine doing. If you’re on the fence about booking a day here, book it! You won’t regret it. I had an amazing day here filled with once in a lifetime experiences.

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