Looking for a fun, family-friendly thing to do during your next beach getaway? Discover the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, Florida, a unique sanctuary dedicated to researching and preserving marine life. This Center, nestled in the heart of the Florida Keys, offers an unparalleled experience for marine biology and conservation enthusiasts.
As one of the best things to do in Marathon, Florida, the Dolphin Research Center allows visitors to engage with dolphins in a responsible and educational setting. Whether staying at a Marathon Florida resort or exploring the various Marathon Florida rentals, visiting the Dolphin Research Center is a must-do activity!
Dolphin Research Center’s History
The history of the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, Florida, is as fascinating as the marine mammals it protects and studies. Founded in 1984, this nonprofit corporation was the vision of Jayne Shannon-Rodriguez and Armando “Mandy” Rodriguez. Their primary aim was to provide a permanent sanctuary for dolphins, offering them a lifelong home and establishing an innovative education and research facility.
The Center has grown considerably since its inception. It started with a small group of dolphins and has expanded to include both bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions. Each of these animals has a unique story. Over half of the Center’s marine family was born there, enjoying a safe and nurturing environment.
The others have diverse backgrounds, including those rescued from different circumstances or transferred from other facilities. This mix of personalities and backgrounds makes the Dolphin Research Center a truly unique institution, reflecting the varied nature of marine mammal life.
Additionally, the history of the Dolphin Research Center is deeply intertwined with the conservation and research of marine life. The founders, Jayne and Mandy, were pioneers in recognizing the importance of creating a center that was a safe haven for marine mammals and a place of learning and discovery.
Their vision went beyond mere shelter; they aimed to create a platform for extensive research and public education about these fascinating creatures.
Research Spotlight
The Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, Florida, is a hub of groundbreaking research, contributing significantly to our understanding of dolphin behavior and cognition. The staff and dolphins at the Center are involved in various cognitive and behavioral research projects, making significant strides in marine mammal science.
One key area of research at the Dolphin Research Center is the study of anthropogenic noise and its impact on dolphin cooperation. The research has shown that man-made noise can significantly impair dolphins’ ability to work together effectively. This is crucial as it highlights the broader environmental impact of human activity on marine life.
Another important study focused on the welfare of isolated animals, particularly the positive impact of toy enrichment and trainer interaction. This research, involving a young rescued dolphin named Ranger, shed light on the significant role that human interaction plays in the mental health and well-being of marine mammals in rehabilitation.
The Center also explores the total energy expenditure (TEE) in bottlenose dolphins, a first-of-its-kind study using the doubly-labeled water method. This research provides invaluable insights into the metabolic needs of dolphins, which is crucial for understanding how environmental factors, like human fisheries, impact these animals.
Additionally, studies on vocal communication among dolphins have been pivotal. One such study demonstrated how dolphins use vocal signals to solve cooperative tasks, revealing the complexity of their communication systems and social interactions.
The research on animal welfare and unbiased science at the Dolphin Research Center emphasizes the importance of informed, objective scientific knowledge in shaping policies and practices affecting marine life. This approach ensures that the welfare of animals, both in the wild and in captivity, is based on solid scientific evidence.
Plan Your Visit
Find the perfect place to call home with us and experience the fun and learn at the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon, Florida, during your next getaway!
Visit the Dolphin Research Center
The Dolphin Research Center offers a wide range of interactive programs that allow visitors to engage with dolphins and sea lions in a meaningful and educational way, making it one of the most exciting and fun things to do in Marathon, Florida. These programs cater to various interests and age groups, providing unique experiences for everyone.
General Admission: The Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and general admission includes access to all the narrated behavior sessions, educational presentations, and other facilities like the Sprayground. Adult tickets cost $35, with discounts for military/veterans and children.
Memory Maker Meet: This program offers a chance to interact closely with dolphins for approximately 15 minutes. Suitable for all ages, the price is $105 per participant, including general admission.
Dolphin Encounter: Priced at $225 per person, this popular program includes an in-water experience lasting 20-25 minutes. It’s designed for participants aged five years and older and allows for a dorsal pull with the dolphins.
Family Dolphin Splash: Ideal for families, especially with young children, this program costs $99 per person and includes a 20-25 minute in-water session on a submerged platform.
Ultimate Trainer for the Day: For a more immersive experience, this full-day program allows participants to accompany trainers throughout the day. Priced at $695 per person, it includes all-day admission and provides an intensive, interactive adventure with the dolphins and sea lions.
VIP Experience: This half-day program, costing $475 per person, offers a close-up experience with dolphins and sea lions. It includes all-day admission and is perfect for those wanting more exclusive interaction with marine animals.
Researcher Experience: Priced at $475 per person, this half-day program allows participants to spend time with the Research Team, observe dolphins and sea lions, and assist with research-related activities. It’s an educational and hands-on experience for those interested in marine biology and research.
Play with the Dolphin: For a fun and interactive experience, this program allows participants to play with a dolphin for about 20-25 minutes. It costs $120 per participant and includes general admission.
Meet the Dolphin: This brief encounter, lasting about 5 minutes, is priced at $70 per participant and allows for a close-up experience with the dolphins, including the chance to touch them.
Exclusive Private Dolphin Encounter: This program offers a private, customizable dolphin encounter for groups of up to six people. It costs $2189 for the group and includes a digital photo package, all-day admission, and a one-year membership to DRC. The in-water experience lasts approximately 20-25 minutes.
Paint with a Dolphin: For a creative experience, this program allows participants to work with dolphins to create unique artwork. Lasting about 10 minutes, the cost is $95 per participant and includes general admission.
Where to Stay
Looking for the perfect place to stay during your dolphin exploration? There’s no better place for you than Coconut Cay Resort and Marina!
Our Marathon Florida resort boasts amenities designed for relaxation and convenience. Guests can enjoy a pool, complimentary activity equipment, lounge chairs, beach towels, charcoal grills, and picnic tables, all just steps from their door.
Each rental offers daily housekeeping, onsite parking, in-room coffee makers, complimentary WiFi, and a daily “Grab-N-Go” breakfast. Plus, when you stay with us, you’re only moments away from the area’s top activities and attractions!
This combination of comfort, convenience, and access to local attractions makes Coconut Cay Resort an ideal choice for those looking for the best resorts in Marathon, FL! Don’t just take our word for it; book your Marathon, Florida, rental with us today and experience a vacation like no other!
