Swim With Dolphins in Side

• Pick-up from your hotel in Side
• Transfer to the Dolphinarium in Aksu (Antalya)
• Watching the dolphin and sea lion show
• Approximately 20 minutes of swimming with dolphins
• Drop-off back at your hotel

Swimming with Dolphins in Side: A Dream Come True

Many people dream of swimming with dolphins, and in Side this dream becomes reality. Side, a beautiful resort town on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, offers visitors this unique opportunity. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, swimming with dolphins is an activity you won’t regret. The Side dolphin swim tour price is only , making it very reasonable for such a special experience. Meanwhile, the memories you’ll create are truly priceless.

This exceptional experience takes place at the Dolphinarium in Aksu, about 60 km from Side (near Antalya). This modern park is home to friendly dolphins and sea lions, offering fun-filled moments for visitors of all ages. The Aksu Dolphinarium takes special care to ensure the comfort and happiness of the animals; the dolphins and other marine mammals are cared for lovingly by experienced professionals. Knowing that these creatures are in good hands, you can relax and fully enjoy your time with them.

Meet the Dolphins

During the swimming sessions, you’ll typically meet bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). This species is known for its high intelligence and playful nature. Each dolphin has its own personality—some are very energetic and curious while others are more calm and gentle. All of them have been carefully trained by expert handlers and are accustomed to interacting with guests. When you hear their cheerful clicks and whistles up close, it will feel as if they’re saying “welcome” to you. Getting to know these delightful sea friends and observing their behavior up close is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the tour.

The Dolphin Swimming Experience

Swimming with dolphins in Side is organized as a session of roughly 20 minutes. Before entering the pool, our expert trainers will give you a short briefing and provide any necessary equipment (such as life vests). Then it’s time to meet our lovely dolphin friends! Once the dolphins realize you mean them no harm, and with the trainers’ permission, you will step into the pool to interact directly with these amazing marine mammals. Sessions are usually done in small groups of about 4-6 people, ensuring each participant has ample time with a dolphin. During the session, you can touch the dolphins, hug them, and even hold onto their dorsal fin for a short ride. For many guests, receiving a playful “kiss” from a dolphin or swimming side by side with one is the highlight of the tour. These warm-hearted creatures will respond to your positive energy and delight you with small tricks, creating unforgettable moments both underwater and at the surface. Throughout the swim, professional photographers will capture every moment (you can optionally purchase these photos/videos at the end of the tour if you wish).

During the Swim Session

Once you’re in the water, it’s important to follow your trainer’s instructions closely. Approach the dolphin calmly and gently—initial contact is usually guided by the trainer. When the dolphin greets you by extending its fin, you can gently pet it in return. If your trainer encourages you to touch the dolphin’s nose or wrap your arms around it for a hug, don’t hesitate—dolphins enjoy friendly contact. However, avoid touching the dolphin’s mouth or eyes or any sensitive areas without guidance. A staff member will be overseeing the entire session to ensure the safety of both you and the dolphin. Just relax and savor this unique interaction; your dolphin might even try to play a little game with you!

The Dolphin Show

No visit to a dolphin park would be complete without watching the dolphins’ spectacular show. During the approximately 45-minute dolphin show at the Dolphinarium, you can witness not only dolphins but also adorable seals and sea lions performing entertaining tricks. In a performance akin to an aquatic ballet, watch the dolphins leap through hoops, play with balls, and splash the audience with their playful antics—sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Filled with competitions, games, and audience interaction, this show is especially unforgettable for children. (Note: In some tour packages, the dolphin show might not be included in the base price and could be offered as an optional extra.) If you prefer to just watch this wonderful show without swimming, the Side Dolphin Show is also available as a separate option.

Tour Duration and Timing

The Side Dolphin Swim Tour is a half-day program generally scheduled in the afternoon. Guests are picked up from their hotels around midday (approximately 12:30 – 1:00 PM) and driven about 40 minutes to the dolphin park in Antalya. After the show and the swimming session are completed, you will be dropped back at your hotel at roughly 4:30 – 5:00 PM. This way, you can spend your morning relaxing and still have your evening free for other plans after the tour.

Transportation and Transfers

In addition to Side town itself, you can easily join this tour from nearby areas like Kumköy, Çolaklı, Evrenseki, Titreyengöl, or Sorgun. The tour price includes round-trip hotel transfer from all these regions. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to the dolphin park, and be brought back to your accommodation afterwards. The transfer service means you won’t have to worry about any transportation arrangements during your vacation—joining the tour is hassle-free.

Safety and Participation

The dolphin swimming activity adheres to high safety standards. Trainers supervise and guide all participants throughout the experience. Even if you’re not a confident swimmer, you can still join with the help of life jackets and support equipment—so don’t worry if swimming isn’t your strong suit. Children aged 6 and above can usually swim with the dolphins on their own, while younger children (ages 3-5) may be allowed to participate with their mother or a trainer’s assistance in the water. Unfortunately, pregnant women are not permitted to join the dolphin swim for safety and health reasons. Similarly, individuals with serious health issues or special needs may face restrictions on participation. It’s recommended to remove any jewelry and rinse off any sunscreen before entering the dolphin pool (for the dolphins’ sensitive skin). Remember to bring your swimsuit and towel; changing rooms and showers are available on-site for your convenience. If you have any concerns before the tour, don’t hesitate to consult your guides.

Benefits of the Dolphin Encounter

Dolphins are among the most intelligent and playful marine mammals in the world. Research has shown that they can recognize themselves in mirrors, give each other unique “whistle” names, and even use simple tools. There are also many examples of dolphins displaying empathy towards humans—such as guiding swimmers in danger to shore. This extraordinary level of intelligence and empathy makes interacting with them even more special. Moreover, the positive effects of dolphin interaction on human psychology are well documented worldwide. Known as “dolphin therapy,” this experience has been used as a supportive therapy for special needs individuals and children, and has generally shown very positive effects in coping with stress and depression. The positive energy that dolphins radiate can make you feel happier and more at peace. Even just a few minutes of interaction can boost your mood and provide an unforgettable sense of serenity. For this reason, swimming with dolphins in Side is not only a fun tour, but can also be seen as an activity that benefits your well-being.

“Swimming with dolphins was the most magical moment I’ve ever had. When I looked into the dolphin’s eyes, we formed a special connection and I felt incredibly free in the water.” said one of our guests who joined the tour last summer. This feedback highlights the profound effect that swimming with dolphins can have on people.

Booking Tips

We highly recommend making an early reservation for this popular tour, as dolphin swim sessions have limited capacity. Many tour operators offer the convenience of paying on the day of the tour without requiring advance payment, making it easy to plan. When preparing for the tour, remember to bring essentials like your swimsuit and towel (wearing your swimwear under your clothes before heading out can save time). Also, it’s important not to have a heavy meal or consume alcohol right before swimming with dolphins, to ensure you feel your best during the experience. Stay hydrated before and after the tour, especially under the summer sun, to keep your energy up.

In conclusion, the Swimming with Dolphins tour in Side is an experience not to be missed during your holiday. By taking part in this adventure, you’ll add a whole new color to your vacation and collect memories that will make you smile for years to come. The bond you form with these friendly, smiling, and intelligent creatures will give you an indescribable happiness. Make your dreams come true with the Side Swimming with Dolphins Tour and share this unique Mediterranean adventure with your loved ones.