Welcome aboard, Bob! My daughter and I participated in the Dolphin Swim at Blue Lagoon Island and it was one of our all time favorite Port Adventures ever! You're asking about the Dolphin Encounter, which doesn't include a full push across the pool like the Dolphin Swim we did, but is still super exciting! We loved participating in this adventure at Blue Lagoon because the groups were small, so we had lots of interaction time with the beautiful dolphins.
You'll meet up at a specific location onboard the ship and then walk off as a group with your guide to the boat that will take you to Blue Lagoon Island. The adventure itself includes a group orientation where you'll learn lots more about the dolphins and what you'll be doing. Then, it's time to get in the water! You'll have about a half an hour of interaction time with the dolphins, which is truly amazing! After that, you can spend the rest of the day enjoying the island. Wander around the other exhibits and shops at the
Dolphin Encounter, then relax and play on the gorgeous beach. The exact departure times will be available to view when you begin your online check-in 75 days prior to sailing for
first time cruisers. Normally there is a departure in the 9:00 hour and one around 12:45. I suggest booking the earlier one, if possible, to get more time on the island. I love that Disney offers multiple return times from the island, so you don't have a set time there. Just play it by ear that day and either head back right after your adventure or take advantage of the opportunity to spend the rest of the day on the island. When you're ready to head back, a boat back to the ship will be coming along soon. I believe the last transfer back is around 5:00 p.m. They'll let you know the multiple return times that day.
Have fun planning your Disney Cruise Line adventures!
Marcy