An exclusive & exciting encounter with dolphins

Come face-to-face with some of the ocean's most intelligent and charismatic creatures at the Cetacean Pavilion inside the Genoa Aquarium. The experience offers a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent marine mammals in a naturalistic setting, learn about their behaviors, how they adapt, and the important work being done to keep them safe. Find all you need to attend this show - details, highlights, conservation efforts, and more.

Face to face with Dolphins - Experience details

Girl observing a dolphin swimming at Genoa Aquarium, Italy.

Location: Cetacean Pavilion
Timings: 8:40am
Duration of the show: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Availability: Available daily, including holidays, with the exception of Mondays and Fridays.
Booking: Required to book at least 3 working days in advance of the date. Maximum of 5 participants.
Age limit: 6 years and minors must be accompanied by a paying adult
Features: Cetacean species, particularly the bottlenose dolphin, in the Marine Protected Area "Santuario Pelagos.

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Where can i catch the Face to face with Dolphins experience?

The dolphin experience is held at the Cetacean Pavilion inside the aquarium. The pavilion features a 33-foot deep tank that is home to a community of coastal dolphin species, as well as sea turtles. The exhibit offers a two-level viewing experience, allowing visitors to observe the dolphins both on the surface and from an underwater perspective.

Highlights of the Dolphin show at Genoa Aquarium

Bottlenose dolphins swimming at Genoa Aquarium, Italy.

Dolphin behavior and ecology

Closely analyze their natural behaviors including social interactions, communication, and hunting strategies.
These intelligent marine mammals are known for their remarkable diving abilities, with the ability to hold their breath for extended periods.
The aquarium highlights fascinating facts about the dolphins, such as their role in the mythical "mermaids of the sea" and their adaptations to the marine environment.

Father and child observing dolphins at Aquarium of Genoa, Italy.

Interactive experiences

You can witness scheduled feeding demonstrations by the aquarium staff.
While physical contact with the dolphins is prohibited, the aquarium offers opportunities to learn about dolphin training and behavior through interactive, supervised experiences.
Participants can take on a temporary role similar to the staff and will receive a free gadget kit at the end of the encounter.

Whale watching tour near Aquarium of Genoa with a view of a whale surfacing.

Conservation efforts

The Genoa Aquarium's Cetacean Pavilion plays a crucial role in dolphin conservation, research, and education.
Learn about specific programs and initiatives aimed at protecting marine mammals like dolphins, including efforts to study their biology, ecology, and behavior in the Marine Protected Area "Santuario Pelagos."
Gain a deeper understanding of the conservation work being done to safeguard these species and their habitats.

Visitor rules

Participants are expected to arrive on time, as delays are not permitted once the appointment is confirmed.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable and seasonal clothing suitable for outdoor activities.
Closed shoes without heels, preferably with rubber soles, are recommended for safety and comfort.
Participants are required to store bags, backpacks, and bulky items in designated areas indicated by the staff.
For safety reasons, potentially dangerous accessories and personal items (e.g., jewelry, cameras) are not allowed near the poolside during the experience.

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