Tourism drained away from Florida's first theme park toward Orlando with the building of Disney World and unfortunately Marineland, just south of Saint Augustine, couldn't compete. It is currently undergoing MAJOR renovations, but the first area to be updated and reopened is the dolphin research center, in which people can swim with dolphins for a fee that runs between 150-300 dollars, depending on how long you want to swim. The 150 dollar program was very involved and enriching, and you aren't treated like you opted for a cheaper deal. An hour of instruction precedes putting on a life jacket and mask before petting, posing for photos with, and actually swimming with the dolphins. You will be taught to give basic commands, as well, which the dolphins (depending on their age and mood) may or may not follow. They were so fun to get to know. Housed in a non-petting area were the world's oldest dolphin, and a blond dolphin rescued from the wild. For 5 dollars, you gain admission to this area, to watch people partake of the program and see the dolphins. A group of little boys were throwing a fun noodle back and forth with the dolphins from the "free" area. It is also located directly on the ocean. I greatly respect Marineland's efforts to come back from bankruptcy by offering these high quality programs. They are sure to bring them prolonged success in whatever Marineland decides to do.
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