Dolphin Camp at Sea

People attend Dolphin Camp for various reasons. Some come to fulfill a life-long dream of being with the dolphins; others sense a longing to re-activate the playful, creative parts of themselves; for others it is part of a spiritual quest; and for some it's a great vacation, an opportunity to relax fully and rejuvenate themselves.
The gathering of this variety of people in one location creates a dynamic setting for powerful interaction. When such a group is collectively focused on giving to, as well receiving from the dolphins, the quality of mutually enjoyable dolphin-human interaction increases. Dolphin Camp fosters authentic, genuine and inspired connections.

What happens when we are with the dolphins?

Something amazing occurs when you slip into the water with a dolphin! Simply being with the dolphins creates an atmosphere of excitement and joy that is supportive to the healing process. Dolphin Camp compliments these encounters through conversations and exercises that promote well-being and integration.
Dolphins respond to each person differently. Dolphins have a keen ability to know what type of interaction is appropriate for each participant. This often is a catalyst for new learning. This is the essential ingredient that turns a wonderful training into a transforming experience.
The Dolphin Camp experience confirms our membership in an intricate living universe, and explores our bond with the earth as essential to a sustainable future. After millions of years of evolution, there is no question that dolphins are absolute masters of their environment. Dolphins have an intricate language, social structure, and brain capacity larger than ours, yet scientists have not been able to decode the mysteries of their language.
We continue to explore the intuitive link to interspecies communication; and in addition, we have begun to investigate the dolphins' ability to consciously direct their echo-location to release physical and emotional stresses in the body.

What makes Dolphin Camp unique?

Dolphins have an incredible ability to evoke the playful, joyous side of us. There is something magical that happens when you get to fulfill a lifelong dream of interacting with a dolphin. Learning about the dolphins, observing their behavior, and being in their presence can often trigger deep insights in to our own lives. Dolphin Camp provides this growth opportunity through classroom sessions and program activities that focus on rejuvenating our mind, body, and spirit.
Dolphin Camp provides a supportive environment where you can explore the world of dolphins with child-like enthusiasm. Days are spent intensively with wild dolphins, up-close and in their natural habitat. Instead of learning about the dolphins, we seek to learn from them new ways to embrace our latent potential.
Dynamic sessions to refine our intuitive ability help unlock the secrets to human-dolphin interaction. Facilitated discussions and sharing of experiences provide a forum to explore application of what you learn from the dolphins, and how it transfers back to your everyday world.
Our experience has confirmed that the idyllic settings of Dolphin Camp promote a deep level of relaxation and well-being. Learn how to return to your own "perfect blueprint" as facilitators share approaches to remove stored physical, mental and emotional stresses. Your Dolphin Camp staff members attend to details so that you can fully relax and enjoy the experience.
Dolphin Camp is experiential, reflective and hands-on. Does the thought of making eye contact with a spotted dolphin or watching a sunset with a warm breeze on your face put a peaceful smile on your face?

What do participants say about Dolphin Camp?

"Thank you for the opportunity to learn from some incredible teachers - the dolphins. Their lessons are taught in a loving, gentle and playful way; and are the most powerfully enlightening, empowering, liberating and enjoyable lessons I've learned to date...Thank you again." GE, Florida
"Group togetherness is very present. I realize an abundance of hard work went into the creation of this experience - one of the peak experiences of my life! This Dolphin Camp is a bridge into the fountain of life, health and happiness." JK, Illinois
"The whole program was a rewarding, learning experience. I'm very grateful for what you have accomplished here for the participants - certainly an unforgettable adventure. Thanks!" TC, Texas

How long has Dolphin Camp been offered?

Dolphin Camp has been running every summer since 1989. Participants have ranged from 8-82 years old. Over 1000 people from all over the world have enjoyed the Dolphin Camp experience.

Who attends Dolphin Camp?

Dolphin Camp attracts a diverse group of people of various ages and life experiences. In addition to campers from the United States and Canada, some have come from as far as Japan, the Philippines, Iceland, South Africa, Latvia, South America and throughout Europe.
Each camp is different. Many find that they attend camp at just the right time in their lives! If you are over the age of 18, are fascinated by dolphins, and/or are looking for a life-changing vacation, this camp is for you.

How many participants attend Dolphin Camp?

Our Dolphin Camp boat will accommodate a maximum of 24 guests. Once a camp is filled a waiting list will be taken.

Where is the camp held?

Dolphin Camp starts with the first two nights in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The next part of our adventure begins with a short flight to meet our boat in the crystal blue waters of Bimini, Bahamas. FYI: Our administrative offices are located in North Carolina.

Where will I be staying?

All participants stay at the Embassy Suites in Ft. Lauderdale the first two nights of camp and then aboard our 90' dolphin dive boat for the rest of the program. Our boat is fully air-conditioned which makes it easy to cool off and rest comfortably. Ship board meals are prepared by our personal chef.

When does Dolphin Camp take place?

Each year, Dolphin Camp is held in July. For 2008, our trip dates are custom programs for groups of 10 or more. We have found that the optimal interaction with the dolphins occurs in the summer months. The Bahamas are famous for their gentle tropical breezes that make July comfortable. Daytime high temps are around 90°F (32°C), evening temps in upper 70°F (21°C). During this time of year, the ocean waters typically are calm, clear and warm.

How much time will I spend with dolphins?

Dolphin Camp is about being with the dolphins as much as possible. The majority of each day will be spent searching, observing and interacting with a pod of spotted dolphins. As with any wild encounter, there is no guarantee of a specific amount or type of experience. We have purposely selected to conduct our camp in July because we will have the highest likelihood of quality daily interaction. Typical encounters range from 20 seconds to 20 minutes. It is not uncommon to have periods of longer interaction.

Do I have to be a good swimmer?

No. Dolphins engage appropriately with each person. If you are able to relax comfortably in the water, you will have a great time. The highest level of interaction occurs when making eye contact with a wild dolphin. Our staff will be conducting a pool orientation session to help campers acclimate to their snorkeling gear. Diving ability and endurance only facilitate sustained interaction. Most campers surprise themselves at how much they improve during the week.

To which airport should I schedule my flight?

Participants either drive or fly to Florida. If you drive, you are responsible for getting to the Embassy Suites in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. If you fly, you are responsible for getting to the Ft. Lauderdale International Airport (FLL). We will provide all transportation during camp.
We ask that you arrive by 4:00 PM on the first day of camp. Upon arrival, contact Embassy Suites for shuttle bus transportation to the hotel. After checking into the hotel, our first evening will consist of a welcome reception and camp orientation.

On the final day of the program, our flight will arrive at the Ft. Lauderdale International Airport at approximately 10:00 AM. After claiming your bags and clearing customs you will be free to check-in with your airline for you flight home. Please do not schedule your departure flight earlier than noon.
If it is more convenient for you to fly into Miami International Airport you can take a Super Shuttle to Ft. Lauderdale for approximately $65 each way. Our office will provide contact information for you.

Will I have a roommate during camp?

All participants will be sharing a cabin with a roommate during camp. If you are attending camp with someone, please let us know if you want to room together. Aboard our ship, the vast majority of cabins consist of two bunk beds, each of them are a width suitable for one adult. Sleeping rooms are comfortable but small.

Can I upgrade to a single room?

Yes. You may request a single room up-grade for an additional $1,750 for the entire camp. Since this program fills quickly, we cannot guarantee that space will be available at the time of your request.

May I arrive a day or two early and stay later?

Yes. Many participants, who travel long distances to camp or want to extend their vacation, often choose to come in early or stay longer. If you would like to stay in Ft. Lauderdale, we will reserve a room for you at the Embassy Suites. This is our gathering point prior to departure to the Bahamas. The additional room charges will be added to your tuition balance. Each additional night is charged at the rate of $125 per room. If you choose to extend your stay, we cannot guarantee that there will be a roommate for you to share hotel costs.

What do I need to bring to camp?

You will need to have a valid passport OR a birth certificate and government photo ID such as a drivers license in order to enter the Bahamas. Because we will be flying to Bimini in a sea-plane, you will be limited to 30 lbs of luggage. During the trip, dress attire is 'island casual' which means very informal. All participants are required to have their own mask, snorkel, and fins for the entire program. Your registration packet will include a list of suggested items to bring to camp.

Is this camp accessible to those with special needs?

Dolphin Camp is an activity-based camp. The majority of the camp takes place on a multi-deck boat linked by a connecting stairway. Please note that our boat is a comfortable diving vessel but isn't ADA compliant. In the past, we have been successful with individual requests and will do everything possible to accommodate those with special needs. Please contact us to discuss options.

Can I bring my children?

The course content and themes for Dolphin Camp are designed for adults. On occasion, parents have brought their children. There is usually something on the boat to interest everyone. Please note that acceptance of a minor into Dolphin Camp is left to the discretion of the Camp Director. Tuition is the same rate for children as it is for adults.
Please consider our other options for children. Marine Bio Camp is a residential camp which has been designed for students ages 14-18. It focuses on environmental and career education in the field of Marine Science. New Moon Dolphin Camp is a special camp for girls from ages 8-14 and their parents. This camp is offered in collaboration with New Moon Magazine. If you would like additional information on these programs, please click on our home page link.

What is the cost of camp and what does the tuition cover?

Once you arrive in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, your camp begins. Your tuition includes:

Transfers to/from hotel and the airport (FLL)
Welcome reception and dinner on July 6
Three meals per day and snacks from July 6 - 13
Breakfast on July 14
Two nights lodging at the Embassy Suites in Ft. Lauderdale (double occupancy)
Round trip Airfare from Ft. Lauderdale to Bimini, Bahamas
Six nights aboard our dolphin boat (double occupancy)
All tours, swims, crew tips and Bahamian taxes
Plus other famous Dolphin Camp goodies!
Also included are daily discovery workshops with your Dolphin Camp instructors plus group activities for stress reduction and relaxation and a week full of smiles!
The cost of Dolphin Camp is $2,795 per participant. A total of 12 cabins are available (double occupancy). Your tuition does not include your cost of transportation to and from Florida. During the trip you are responsible for your gift purchases as well as alcohol, soda or commissary items.

What happens if I need to cancel after I have registered?

Because of the popularity of Dolphin Camp and the limited capacity on the boat, we regret to inform you that tuition payments are non-refundable. In light of this fact, we suggest that you consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.
To find out more about travel insurance visit http://www.travelguard.com Note: Trip insurance must be purchased within 15 days of making your initial deposit.

How do I register?

Trip dates are custom programs for groups of 10 or more, 2008.
Tuition is $2,795.00 per person
Your registration is confirmed by submitting a non-refundable deposit of $295 per person.
Full tuition is due by May 15th.
To register online, please select this link.
Payments can be made by mail or over the phone. We accept Visa or MasterCard, American Express or Discover and checks.
If you would prefer to speak with us directly, please call our toll free number, 800-451-2562.
Our mailing address is:
Dolphin Camp
1654 Hamlet Chapel Road
Pittsboro, NC 27312
To receive a brochure, please email your mailing address to contact@dolphin.com