How to Swim with Dolphins in St. Thomas
How to Swim with Dolphins in St. Thomas: 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about the St. Thomas Dolphin Sea Sanctuary at Coral World Ocean Park.
St. Thomas is home to incredible marine life, including tropical fish, green sea turtles, and even migratory whales. While you might spot a friendly dolphin during a boat charter or snorkeling tour, there is only one way to ensure an up-close, personal encounter: the Dolphin Sea Sanctuary at Coral World.
Whale and dolphin watching is especially spectacular during February and March, but the resident dolphins at Coral World provide immersive, educational experiences year-round for families visiting the USVI.
Dolphin Encounter Quick Facts
| Program Type | Best For | Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Moment | Young Kids / Non-Swimmers | Ages 3+ |
| Dolphin Encounter | Intimate, waist-deep interaction | All Ages |
| Dolphin Trek | Underwater walking experience | Ages 8+ |
The St. Thomas Dolphin Sea Sanctuary
Your dolphin swim excursion takes place at Coral World Ocean Park, located on the East End of St. Thomas. Unlike traditional concrete tanks, this state-of-the-art sea sanctuary is constructed directly in the ocean, allowing for a natural flow of seawater, fish, and coral. This environment mirrors the dolphins’ natural habitat while providing a safe space for well-being and exploration.
During your encounter, you’ll meet the dolphins in a small-group setting to ensure an intimate experience. These unscripted programs allow the dolphins to take the lead, deciding how they want to interact with you. You’ll have the chance to feed, touch, and play with these majestic creatures while learning about marine conservation from expert handlers.
How to Plan Your Visit
Swimming with dolphins is one of the best things to do in St. Thomas, but it requires advanced planning, especially in 2026 as group sizes remain limited for the animals’ comfort.
- Booking: Reservations are highly recommended at least 2 weeks in advance.
- Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to Coral World to check in and attend the mandatory safety briefing.
- Accessibility: If you are staying in St. John or St. Croix, the sanctuary is just a ferry ride away from the Red Hook terminal.
- More Animals: Looking for more? You can also book encounters with sea lions and sharks at the same location!
Fun Facts About Dolphins
Brush up on your dolphin knowledge before your swim!
- Species: There are 42 different species of dolphins globally.
- Diet: Dolphins do not chew; they swallow fish whole or break them into smaller pieces.
- Communication: They use whistles, clicks, and squeals to talk via echolocation.
- Family: The Orca (Killer Whale) is actually the largest member of the dolphin family.
- Speed: Some species can swim up to 35mph!