The Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences, known as RIMS, was founded in 1989 and is part of Anthony's Key Resort in the Sandy Bay area of the island. It studies coral reefs and aquatic life, hosts visiting student groups and runs a small marine museum, and it also operates dolphin programs. The programs listed on the resort's booking page include a Dolphin Encounter of about 30 minutes, a Dolphin Swim and Snorkel of about an hour, a Dolphin Action Swim of about 45 minutes, a specialty course for people who want a closer study of bottlenose dolphins, a Trainer for a Day program and a weeklong summer camp for children. Visitors have differing views about dolphin attractions, so this entry sets out the facts and leaves the decision to you.
What the programs involve: the encounter format described by the booking page is close-up interaction in a natural lagoon setting, and the swim format has you in the water with the animals. The longer programs add classroom study and time with trainers. According to an encyclopedia entry, the dolphins live in two coastal enclosures, and in 2017 the facility held 26 animals, of which 7 were captured from the wild, 1 was rescued and 18 were born there. That background is part of why opinions on the programs differ.
Things to weigh: some travelers value the research and education side and the chance to learn about the animals, while others prefer not to take part in any activity that involves captive marine mammals. Both views are common. If you want to learn more before deciding, read the institute's descriptions, ask about the animals' care, and compare the experience with a wild-sighting boat trip or a reef snorkel. The booking page does not state age, health or schedule details, so contact the resort for those.
Planning: the programs are at Anthony's Key Resort, which is not at the cruise terminals, so a taxi and a firm return time are essential on a port day. Confirm availability, group sizes and refund terms in advance, since the booking page does not list a cancellation policy.
What to expect
The experience
A choice of dolphin programs, from a roughly half-hour encounter to swims, courses and a children's camp, run at Anthony's Key Resort.
Best time
Check availability in advance and choose a slot that leaves a generous margin before your ship or flight.
How long
From about 30 minutes for the encounter to a full day for the trainer program.
Tips
Read each program description, ask about age and health rules and confirm refund terms before paying.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers interested in marine science and comfortable with a dolphin program.
- Families
- Children's programs exist, but age rules are not stated on the booking page, so ask first.
- Couples
- A shared activity for couples who are comfortable with the format.
- Pair with
- A reef snorkel or a visit to the resort's marine museum.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day including transfers for the shorter programs.
Good questions
What programs are offered?+
The booking page lists a 30-minute Dolphin Encounter, a Swim and Snorkel, an Action Swim, a specialty course, Trainer for a Day and a children's summer camp. Durations and options may change, so check before you go.
Where do the programs take place?+
They are offered at the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences at Anthony's Key Resort. It is not at the cruise terminals, so plan a taxi.
Where do the dolphins come from?+
An encyclopedia entry reports that in 2017 the facility held 26 dolphins: 7 captured from the wild, 1 rescued and 18 born there. Ask the institute for its current figures.
Is there an age or health limit?+
The booking page does not state age, health or schedule details. Contact the resort before you book.
Are there alternatives?+
If you prefer not to join a dolphin program, a reef snorkel or a boat trip to see wildlife in the open water is a common alternative. Many visitors choose those instead.