
Discover the signature choice for travelers seeking a memorable connection with nature at the protected ocean cove of Chankanaab National Park. Whether you are departing from the Cancun Hotel Zone or arriving from the heart of the Riviera Maya, this top-rated interaction invites guests to meet our charismatic sea lions in their natural Caribbean habitat, combining an educational marine connection with a full day of island relaxation. This premium experience delivers all the facilities and activities needed for a perfect Caribbean day trip as you bond while surrounded by the turquoise beauty of the region.
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Official Sea Lion Encounter Inclusions:
This high-energy program features a hands-on session with the ocean's most playful mammals. Your portal access covers:
• The Interaction: A guided Sea Lion Interaction (approx. 20-30 mins) including a handshake, kiss, and hug from the submerged platform.
• Dining & Drinks: Your portal access covers the International Gourmet Buffet and National Open Bar for a complete island getaway.
• Park Access: Full access to Chankanaab National Park facilities, including the pool, sea lion show, and botanical gardens.
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Price Category Details:
• Adult Rate: Applies to all guests aged 13 and older. Note: To participate in this specialized sea lion program, participants must meet the hard minimum height requirement of 3.9 ft (1.20m).
• Child Rate: Applies to guests aged 6 to 12. Note: Any child taller than 4.6 ft (1.40m) will be charged the Adult Rate. Children participating must meet the hard minimum height requirement of 3.9 ft (1.20m) to safely access the interaction platform.
• Infant Rate: Children aged 1 to 5 (or those under 3.9 ft) interact for free in standard programs, but are strictly prohibited from entering the sea lion habitat for this specific program due to height safety regulations.
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Marine Taxes & Fees (Not Included):
A local $3.00 USD per person fee (ISEPAAA state tax) is payable in cash at the check-in desk to cover terminal usage and mandatory local environmental protection taxes for this Cancun excursion, and it is not included in your reservation.
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Standard Restrictions & Policies:
• Photography: For the safety of the animals and guests, personal cameras, cell phones, and GoPros are not permitted in the water or dock areas. This is one of the most protected things to do in Cancun, and professional photos are available for purchase after your session.
• Medical Conditions: Guests with heart, back, or neck problems, or those who have had recent surgery, should consult a physician before participating in this top Isla Mujeres day trip region excursion.
• Safety Restriction: Due to the physical, unpredictable nature of marine animal behaviors, pregnant women are strictly prohibited from participating in any portion of this aquatic swim program.
• Regulation Note: Interactive behaviors are subject to change to ensure animal welfare.
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Pro-Tip:
This is the ultimate "Smile" experience! Sea lions are loud and funny. We recommend arriving at the Dolphin Discovery Cozumel center inside Chankanaab National Park at least 30 minutes early to check in. Be sure to check the schedule for the Sea Lion Show (included in your ticket) so you can watch the pros before or after your personal encounter! Pack biodegradable sunscreen and a dry change of clothes for the most comfortable return trip.
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Guest Participation & Safety Standards:
• Atmosphere: An All-Inclusive Family experience designed for an active, high-energy interactive environment.
• Wellness: Minimum height is 1.20 meters (3.9 ft). Guests interact from a submerged platform (waist-deep water). Life jackets are mandatory during the interaction session of this premier Cancun excursion.
• Dress Code: We recommend comfortable swimwear and a dry change of clothes to enjoy the park facilities after your encounter.
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Payment Processing & Data Handling:
To provide a secure booking environment, a standard 3.5% Secure Payment Processing Fee is applied at checkout. This fee covers the costs of utilizing industry-standard encryption protocols through our third-party merchant partners to manage your transaction data.
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Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations made 24+ hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, less a 10% Administrative Fulfillment Fee. This fee covers non-refundable third-party merchant costs and international bank transaction fees associated with your reservation processing.
Activities for this location take place at the Dolphin Discovery habitat within Chankanaab National Park on Cozumel island.
Who is this for?
Vacationers staying in Cancun can book this unforgettable nature experience with our convenient pier shuttle service. Please be aware that activities take place on the island of Cozumel.
This booking option manages your ground transport to the ferry terminal, but the ocean crossing is independent. The ferry crossing to Cozumel is an Extra Charge and is not included in your reservation.
Sea Lion Encounter Orientation:
Available at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Check-in begins 30 minutes early at the habitat front desk.
Journey & Logistics:
Step 1 (Transfer): We provide round-trip transport from your hotel to the Playa del Carmen Federal Ferry Pier (Optional).
Step 2 (The Ferry): Purchase a round-trip passenger ferry ticket to Cozumel. Ferries typically depart every hour on the hour. Please arrive at the pier at least 45 minutes early.
Step 3 (The Taxi): Upon arrival in Cozumel, take a local taxi to Chankanaab National Park (approx. 15 minutes).
Optional Transportation Costs:
Round-trip ground transportation to the pier for guests in the Cancun Hotel Zone, Playa Mujeres, Costa Mujeres, and Centro (Downtown) is available for an Extra Charge ($15 USD per person). While we offer service for most major hotels, guests staying in rentals or Airbnbs will be assigned a central meeting point.
Transportation service may be requested at the time of booking and up to 48 hours prior to your tour departure.
Activities for this location take place at the Dolphin Discovery habitat within Chankanaab National Park on Cozumel island located at Carretera Costera Sur Km 9.5.
Who is this for?
This booking option is for guests staying on the island or arriving via cruise ship.
Official ground transportation is not provided for guests already on the island; local taxis are recommended for arrival. If you are arriving by cruise ship, Chankanaab Natural Park is a short 10–15 minute taxi ride from any of the three main cruise terminals: SSA International, Puerta Maya, or Punta Langosta.
Sea Lion Encounter Orientation:
Available Monday through Saturday at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Check-in begins 30 minutes early at the habitat front desk.
Cruise Ship Arrival:
Taxis are readily available at all pier exits. The fare to Chankanaab is approximately $12–$16 USD for up to 4 people.
Activities for this location take place at the Dolphin Discovery habitat within Chankanaab National Park on Cozumel island.
Who is this for?
Vacationers staying in Playa del Carmen can book this experience with our convenient pier shuttle service. Please be aware that activities take place on the island of Cozumel. The ferry crossing to Cozumel is an Extra Charge and is not included in your reservation.
Sea Lion Encounter Orientation:
Available at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Check-in begins 30 minutes early at the habitat front desk.
Journey & Logistics:
Step 1 (Transfer): We provide round-trip transport from your hotel to the Playa del Carmen Federal Ferry Pier (Optional).
Step 2 (The Ferry): Purchase a round-trip passenger ferry ticket to Cozumel. Ferries typically depart every hour on the hour. Please arrive at the pier at least 45 minutes early.
Step 3 (The Taxi): Upon arrival in Cozumel, take a local taxi to Chankanaab National Park (approx. 15 minutes).
Optional Transportation Costs:
Round-trip ground transportation to the pier from major hotels is available for an Extra Charge ($10 USD per person). While we offer service for most major hotels, guests staying in downtown rentals or Airbnbs will be assigned a central meeting point.
Transportation service may be requested at the time of booking and up to 48 hours prior to your tour departure.
Activities for this location take place at the Dolphin Discovery habitat within Chankanaab National Park on Cozumel island.
Who is this for?
Vacationers staying in the Riviera Maya can book this experience with our convenient pier shuttle service. Please be aware that activities take place on the island of Cozumel. You must take the ferry from the Playa del Carmen pier to the island. Ferry fees and taxi transfers are not included in your reservation.
Sea Lion Encounter Orientation:
Available at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Check-in begins 30 minutes early at the habitat front desk.
Optional Transportation:
Round-trip ground transportation to the pier from your hotel is available for an Extra Charge ($10 USD per person). While we offer service for most major hotels, guests staying in downtown rentals or Airbnbs will be assigned a central meeting point. Cruise passengers arriving at the Calica cruise pier will meet at a designated central point.
Transportation service may be requested at the time of booking and up to 48 hours prior to your tour departure.
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