Family enjoying activities on board; popcorn
  • On Jan 13, 2026
    Rocio from CA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Interested in Cozumel, Dophinaris "Dolphin Kids" for my 5 year old but everyone else is interested in the "Dolphin Swim". Is it still necessary to reserve "Dolphin Observer" for to accompany my daughter?

    Welcome to planDisney, Rocio!

    We're so glad you swam on by with a question for us. Based on your arrival date, I'm guessing you might be sailing on a 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston on Disney Magic. I have yet to experience this charming ship for myself, but I'm confident you are set for plenty of excitement on the high seas during your voyage.

    A dolphin encounter sounds like a pretty "fin-tastic" adventure for your time in Cozumel. I took a look at the excursion details for Dolphin Kids at Dolphinaris, which is offered exclusively for guests aged 3-9. This approximately 40-minute encounter involves a taxi ride once you've disembarked the ship, and at least one parent is required to accompany the child throughout the excursion. 

    I understand that the rest of your group might want to experience a different dolphin adventure, but based on the language online, one adult member of your party would need to book the Dolphin Observer at Dolphinaris. This excursion is conducted on a submerged platform in approximately 1.5 feet of water, but you'll need to bring a swimsuit and be prepared to enter the water at the platform level should your child need some extra encouragement. The "Know Before You Go" details also indicate that, though you should be prepared to accompany your child, you will not interact in the water with the dolphins. 

    Dolphin Swim at Dolphinaris also begins on a submerged platform, but includes a deeper body of water (approximately 3 feet) than the kids' experience. So while it seems things might happen pretty close by, someone will likely need to forgo the swim to stay with your daughter during her experience. 

    I recommend reaching out to a Crew Member by phone before booking to see if there are any other options I may not have thought of. Keep in mind that Port Adventures may be canceled up to 3 days prior to your cruise departure date, unless otherwise noted, but after that, they are considered non-refundable.

    You can also wait to inquire in person to see what works best for your party once you've boarded the ship on embarkation day. I can't guarantee booking availability at that time, but someone at the Port Adventures Desk on Deck 3 should be able to advise on specifics for that particular excursion. 

    Rocio, I hope this gives you some clarity. If we can answer any additional questions, please sail right back to planDisney and let us know.

    Bon voyage!
    Amy
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Meet the Panelist: Amy, North Carolina

Hi, I'm Amy- a proud wife, mom, and Disney adult. I'm a natural planner with a flair for the creative, always looking for ways to add a little magical sparkle to our family's day-to-day happenings and once-in-a lifetime moments. You'll find me and my crew visiting the parks from rope drop to close and packing in as much magic as possible to each day of our Walt Disney World Resort vacation. From dining to photo spots and all the details in between, you've got a friend in me! Learn More About Amy

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