Disney's Dolphins
Did you know that dolphins have belly buttons? Or that they always swallow their food headfirst? You can learn all this and more from Disney's Dolphins in Depth encounter at the Epcot theme park near Orlando. For the past two years, dolphin enthusiasts have participated in a behind-the-scenes, hands-on experience with the majestic resident dolphins, Toby and Bob. The two dolphins not only amaze visitors at their home in the Living Sea's 6 million-gallon aquarium, but they also volunteer in ongoing research. The first half of Disney's Dolphins in Depth program includes a tour of the aquatic facility and classroom sessions where you learn about the mammals' anatomy, social behaviors and the ongoing research. Of course the best is saved for last when participants don wetsuits and wade into waist high water for an up-close and personal visit with Toby and Bob. Trainers supervise the experience while answering questions and conduct routine husbandry (veterinarian) techniques using their live models, as well as identifying markings and anatomy that are characteristic of dolphins. For those that have only seen dolphins through the walls of an aquarium or perhaps in the wild, this program is a great opportunity to enhance any vacation and come away with new knowledge about dolphins. The 3 1/2-hour program is open to anyone age 16 and older (under 18 must have a parent sign a waiver) regardless of swimming ability (all you need to bring is your bathing suit). The program runs Monday through Friday, starting at 8:45 a.m., and approximately 30 minutes of the program takes place in the water. The cost of the program is $140 and includes a videotape of your experience, refreshments, a T-shirt and conservation literature to take home. Note that the program price does not include admission to Epcot and that the program may be subject to cancellation to meet the dolphins' needs. Adult certified divers who want to plunge deeper into the Living Seas aquarium and scuba with the more than 65 species of marine life should check out Epcot Dive Quest. This program runs daily at 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Each session is about three hours with 30 minutes allocated to diving in waters with temperatures in the mid-70s. The program price is $140 and includes all gear, the dive, refreshments, a T-shirt, certificate and a dive log stamp. Divers must have proof of certification and a photo ID. Reservations for both programs can be made by calling 407-WDW-TOUR. For recorded information on Disney's Dolphins in Depth, call 407-560-7815. For recorded details on Epcot Dive quest, call 407-560-5590.