Blue Lagoon Island is a private island a short boat ride from Paradise Island, and for decades it has been where Nassau visitors go to meet dolphins. The Dolphin Encounter we link is sold on Viator by Blue Lagoon Island itself, and is the gentlest of its animal programmes: after a short talk about Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and ocean conservation, you stand on a submerged platform in shallow water, about waist deep, while a trainer brings the dolphins to you for a handshake, a belly rub, a fin dance and a kiss. It is ideal for younger children and nervous swimmers, because you never need to swim. The trip begins with a scenic ride across the harbour, past the Atlantis towers and the colourful waterfront, and the island’s beaches, hammocks and calm lagoon are there for the rest of your visit. Photos and video are taken by staff and can be bought before you leave.
How it works: boats leave from the ferry terminal on Paradise Island, which you can reach by taxi, by water taxi from downtown, or on foot over the bridge, which is a steep walk. Hotel pickup and drop-off and the round-trip ferry are included. The dolphin programme itself lasts about thirty minutes, and confirmation arrives within 48 hours of booking. Children aged three and under go free with a paying adult, and children aged four to twelve must be with an adult who also holds a Dolphin Encounter ticket. Cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.
What to expect: the dolphins live in a large sea-water lagoon on the island. Groups gather on a platform about three feet deep, and each guest gets close-up time with the animals under a trainer’s direction. Personal cameras and phones are not allowed during animal programmes, which is why the staff photographers are there. Motorised powerchairs and non-folding wheelchairs cannot go on the boats.
Making the most of it: book the earliest slot to enjoy the beach afterwards, bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and cash or a card for photos, and pack water shoes for the platform. If you want more time in the water, Blue Lagoon also runs a longer swim programme and an all-inclusive beach day.
What to expect
The experience
A boat ride to a private island, a short conservation talk and a 30-minute dolphin encounter on a shallow platform, then beach time.
Best time
An early slot, which leaves the rest of the day free for the island’s beaches and hammocks.
How long
The dolphin programme is about thirty minutes; allow half a day including the boat and beach.
Tips
Leave your phone in your bag during the encounter, since only staff photographers may take pictures.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with young children and anyone who wants to meet dolphins without swimming.
- Families
- Excellent, with free places for under-fours and a platform in shallow water.
- Couples
- A sweet shared moment, best followed by a lazy afternoon on the beach.
- Pair with
- A walk around Paradise Island and dinner by the harbour, close to the ferry terminal.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need to swim for the Dolphin Encounter?+
No, you stand on a platform in water about three feet deep while the dolphins come to you. It is the best choice for non-swimmers and young children.
Where does the boat leave from?+
Boats leave from the ferry terminal on Paradise Island. Hotel pickup and the round-trip ferry are included in the ticket.
Can I take my own photos?+
No, personal cameras and phones are not allowed during animal programmes. Staff photographers take pictures and video that you can buy before leaving.
What are the age rules?+
Children three and under are free with a paying adult. Children aged four to twelve must be with an adult who also has a Dolphin Encounter ticket.
How long do you spend with the dolphins?+
The programme lasts about thirty minutes, including the introduction. You can stay on the island beaches afterwards.