Almost everyone enjoys watching dolphins. Their playful nature and intelligence make these marine mammals natural performers, and they genuinely seem to enjoy interacting with humans. Well now, almost anyone can enjoy close interaction with these amazing animals. Although there are many programs that allow humans the opportunity to closely interact with dolphins, the "Dolphin Swim" at Delfiniti in Ixtapa, Mexico is one of the best available anywhere.

After a short introduction, participants spend at least 45 minutes in the water with a pair of friendly dolphins under the supervision of professional trainers. The swim starts with a "belly ride" across the pool with the participant holding on to the dolphin's pectoral fins.

Once on the other side of the pool, participants take turns performing a variety of tricks with the dolphins, all of which are photographed and video recorded. Floating in the water with one's arms spread out, a dolphin will swim up to the participant for a hug and a kiss. The dolphin then shakes hands/fins with the participant. A second dolphin then joins in, allowing the participant to pose for a photo with a dolphin on either side.

The interactive part of the program concludes with an incredible trick called the "foot push." All the participant has to do is float in the water face-down in the superman position. Then a pair of dolphins swim up from behind and lift the participant out of the water by pushing on the feet with their nose. The most amazing part of this is the complete lack of balance required by the participant for this trick to work. While it looks really difficult and impressive, the dolphins (and their trainers) really do all the work.

There are many companies that offer people the opportunity to directly interact with dolphins, but Delfiniti's program is clearly one of the best available anywhere in the world. Located in the beautiful resort town of Ixtapa, in the Mexican state of Guerrero, a visit to Delfiniti will undoubtedly be the highlight of your entire vacation.

If the dolphin swim sounds a bit extreme for your taste, Delfiniti offers an entire range of programs for people of all ages and abilities. A more traditional dolphin encounter is available for those 8 years and up. This program provides 20 minutes in the water with the dolphins and also includes photo ops.

For younger children ages 3-7, there is a special Delfiniti Kids program. Even younger participants can participate in the Dolphin Baby program which has no minimum age requirement. These children programs are a particularly good value since both a parent and child receive up to 20 minutes in the water for one price. There is also a Family Program that allows two parents and one child the opportunity to spend 10 minutes in the water with a dolphin for only $82 US.

If you are visiting the Ixtapa area and would like to visit Delfiniti, you should get a reservation by calling +52 (755) 553-2736, or you can reserve your spot online at Delfiniti.com. Cruise passengers should book this as an excursion through their cruise line if possible. Although it will cost a little more to go through your cruise line, their price will include transportation to and from Delfiniti in an air conditioned motor coach. Also, by booking this as one of your ship's approved shore excursions, you don't have to worry about missing the boat if problems arise.

Pricing
 

• Dolphin Swim           $124 US
• Dolphin Encounter   $82 US
• Delfiniti Kids              $124 US
• Dolphin Baby             $57 US
• Family                          $82 US

PLEASE NOTE: For safety reasons, pregnant women are not allowed to participate in any of Delfiniti's programs