More Than a Meeting: The Mission of Dolphin Cay Atlantis

Dolphin Cay at Atlantis, Paradise Island, is one of the largest and most sophisticated marine mammal habitats in the world. While it is renowned for its incredible, up-close animal interactions, its core purpose is dedicated to rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation.

This 14-acre habitat, complete with nearly seven million gallons of crystal-clear seawater across three lagoons, serves as a safe haven for its residents. The facility is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and certified by Global Humane, a distinction that underscores its commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare.

Every program and interaction at Dolphin Cay helps fund the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports marine conservation, research, and community outreach, ensuring that a visit here directly contributes to protecting marine life in The Bahamas and beyond.

Signature Dolphin Interactions

Dolphin Cay offers a wide range of programs that allow guests to connect with the resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in different ways.

• Shallow Water Interaction: Ideal for all ages, this experience allows you to stand in waist-deep water to touch, hug, kiss, and play with a dolphin.
• Deep Water Swim: For more adventurous guests, this program lets you swim alongside a dolphin, experience the famous “foot push” where a dolphin propels you through the water, and snorkel with them.
• Paddleboard & Kayak with Dolphins: These unique programs allow you to get on the water in a new way, paddling or kayaking across the spacious lagoon as the curious dolphins swim and play around you.
• Playtime with Dolphins: A modern, unscripted program focusing on the natural behaviors of the animals, this experience allows you to meet the dolphins face-to-face in a small group setting.

Sea Lion and Specialty Programs

Beyond the signature dolphin swims, Dolphin Cay provides other exclusive animal encounters and educational opportunities.

• Playtime with Sea Lions: Wade into the water for a fun and informative meet-and-greet with the habitat’s playful and charismatic California sea lions.
• Ultimate Trainer for a Day: This immersive program gives you a full behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to care for the animals. You’ll shadow a behaviorist, assist with feeding, and participate in training sessions with both dolphins and sea lions. A “Jr. Ultimate Trainer” program is also available for younger guests.
• Sea Life Vet Program: Go behind the scenes at the animal hospital to see how the veterinary team cares for the hundreds of animals at Atlantis, from dolphins and sea lions to sea turtles and fish.

A Sanctuary First

Dolphin Cay began as a safe harbor for 17 bottlenose dolphins who were rescued from Mississippi after their habitat was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Today, it continues to serve as a vital rescue and rehabilitation center for marine animals, setting a global standard for animal care and education.