Ahoy there Monica,
I do a little happy dance every time I find a Moms Panel question directed specifically to me so thank you! I'm so glad you asked about these specific port adventures in Nassau because I researched them both extensively for my own family for our March 2011 cruise.
Here's what I see as the key difference between the shallow and deep-water dolphin encounters at Atlantis: are you comfortable swimming in deep water? When I was comparing these two experiences, I opted for the shallow experience because, even though my eleven-year-old son was old enough to participate in the
Dolphin Cay Deep Water Swim, he was not a strong enough swimmer to feel comfortable with this port adventure. The
Dolphin Cay Shallow Water Interaction was more his speed and it still afforded us ample opportunity to get to know the dolphins. When he gets a little older and more confident in the water, we'll definitely do the deep water interaction. Who wouldn't want to swim alongside those amazing creatures? It's definitely worth the money to have this experience.
By the way, if it is within your budget, I highly recommend including the Aquaventure tickets in your port adventure. This is a spectacular water park. If you enjoy thrill rides at all, then this is the place for you. Everyone in my family saw this port adventure as one of the highlights of our cruise.
Whatever you decide, be sure to book your port adventures at the earliest possible window. The most popular ones (including the dolphin interactions) fill up fast, so don't hesitate!
Bon voyage!
Jill