Discovery Cove - General Information

mjhtvchick

Universal Fan-atic
Joined
Apr 10, 2012
Updated February 5, 2023

This post provides general information about Discovery Cove.

All prices quoted in this post are subject to change; please check park website for current information.

Discovery Cove is located across from SeaWorld near the intersection between International Drive and the Central Florida Parkway. Click here (https://discoverycove.com/en/premier-planning/directions) for location and directions information.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Address & Contact Info
6000 Discovery Cove Way
Orlando, FL 32821
Phone: 407-513-4600
Email: DCO-GuestRelations@DiscoveryCove.com
Website: https://discoverycove.com/

The park map is available at: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/map/

Park Hours
Discovery Cove is a full-day adventure with waterways open from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm daily.
Check-in begins at 7:30 am. If you are participating in 3 or more add-on experiences during your visit to Discovery Cove, plan to arrive by 7:30 am for check-in and proper scheduling of your day.

For special needs that require a specific timeframe, please call reservations at 407-513-4600 at least 24 hours in advance.

Admission
Since Discovery Cove limits attendance to about 1,300 guests per day, it is highly recommended you make a reservation for your visit. Also, if you are planning on visiting during the summer or near a holiday, you should book your reservation at least two months prior to your intended visit to ensure availability as these timeframes tend to book early.

See below under Packages for a description of the main packages that are available to book.
Discounts are available for Sea World annual pass holders and Florida residents.
There are also several available upgrades and add-ons.
Admission is free for guests 2 years old and younger.

Hotel Packages
Admission to Discovery Cove can also be booked as part of a package at an "Official SeaWorld Hotel" or a "SeaWorld Hotel Partner”. Guests who book these packages receive exclusive benefits that add significant value to an Orlando vacation experience. To book a package, visit the Hotel Packages page of the Discovery Cove website: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/pricing/hotel-packages/.

Rainy Day Policy
Discovery Cove closely monitors weather conditions and for the safety of guests, team members, and animals, may suspend operations during periods of inclement weather, including thunder, and lightning. During these periods guests may be asked to evacuate pools, reefs, and dining areas to seek shelter. Water activities will still continue during rain storms, including:

• Dolphin Lagoon and Interaction
• Freshwater Oasis
• The Grand Reef
• Serenity Bay
• Wind-Away River

In the event that a named tropical storm or hurricane is predicted to approach Orlando, Tampa, or a guest's hometown, within 7 days of the scheduled visit, Discovery Cove will reschedule or refund any vacation package booked online or from the call center. They will not apply any cancellation or change fees for this service. For any additional information, call 407-513-4600.

Changing or Canceling a Reservation
If your vacation plans do change, due to any other unforeseen events, Discovery Cove accommodates this by allowing guests one complimentary date change prior to the visit. Further changes to your itinerary will be provided for a nominal charge of $50 per change. Bookings made within 7 days of the original reservation date will be booked at the original rate. Bookings made outside of that time will be subject to change based on seasonal rates for the new date chosen.

Please note: If you decide to cancel or re-book your Discovery Cove reservation within 30 days of your visit there is no refund. If the cancellation notice is provided more than 30 days from your originally scheduled arrival, you will receive a full 100% refund. If you have to change or cancel your reservation, please contact the Discovery Cove reservations center at 407-513-4600.

What is Included
Food and Beverages - Freshly prepared food, unlimited snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and a selection of beer and wine for guests 21+.

Gear and Facility Use - Changing facilities, swim vest or wet suit, snorkel gear, flotation devices, lockers, and towels are all provided by Discovery Cove. Private indoor and public outdoor showers are also available.

Sunscreen - A specially formulated sunscreen safe for animal habitats is provided at all restrooms.

Parking - All-day self-parking at Discovery Cove is complimentary.

ID card - A personalized Discovery Cove ID card with the option to set up in-park charging.

What to Bring
Photo ID - Identification needed for each party member 18 years and older. (ex: driver’s license or passport)

Credit card - For an optional in-park charge account or souvenir purchases.

Clothing - Bathing suit and a set of dry clothes. Please note that Discovery Cove is family-friendly, therefore we ask that the appropriate swim attire be worn throughout your visit. Children in diapers are required to use waterproof protectors or Swim Diapers (can be provided if needed).

Cameras and Recording Equipment - Guests may use their personal cameras and recording devices throughout the park, with the exception of the dolphin lagoons (for the safety of the animals and your photo equipment). Other party members who are not in the lagoon may take photos and record the interaction from the beach areas. Photography and video packages are also available in a range of selections and pricing.

Completed Waivers - Waivers are needed for any minors (under 18 years of age) in your party not visiting with their parent or natural guardian or participating in certain animal interactions. Waivers can be accessed here.

What to Leave at Home
Jewelry - For the safety and well-being of our marine friends. Wedding bands are acceptable.

Outside food and beverages - No outside food or beverages are allowed in. This includes alcohol and coolers.

Flotation devices - This includes noodles, swim fins, and sand toys.


GUESTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Accessibility
Discovery Cove can accommodate guests with disabilities who are able to maneuver themselves with limited assistance (or with the aid of a personal assistant) during their dolphin experience and in the various wading locations. Discovery Cove also offers specially-designed outdoor wheelchairs with over-sized tires for easy maneuvering on the beach. The wheelchairs are not self-maneuverable and guests will need assistance operating them. Wheelchairs can be reserved by calling 407-513-4600.

Certified Autism Center
Discovery Cove has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to become designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC). Their goal is to provide every family with an enjoyable and memorable visit to Discovery Cove, and to do so they offer specialized services to guests with autism and other special needs. See the IBCCES Sensory Guide for more insight on how a child with sensory processing issues may be affected by each sense for rides and attractions at Aquatica.

Quiet Space - Guests in need of some quiet time and relief from sensory stimulation can utilize a Quiet Space located near the First Aid unit. This space is a low traffic and low noise area with seating for guests who need to take a break. Guests who would like to use the Quiet Space may do so on a first-come first-served basis.

Discovery Cove has lots of open, clear space; this makes attractions and services more accessible and reduces “sensory overload” for guests with cognitive disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Service Animals
Discovery Cove welcomes service animals. According to federal and state law, a "service animal" is defined as a dog or miniature horse that is trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Service animals may access all areas of Discovery Cove with the exception of the Dolphin Lagoon, Explorer’s Aviary, Freshwater Oasis, Serenity Bay, The Grand Reef, and Wind-Away River. Service animals are prohibited from entering these areas due to safety reasons, the nature of these attractions, and the presence of other animals. However, attended service animals are welcome to wait at least 30 feet from the water's edge of these areas. For more information on service animals, visit the discovery cove website at: https://discoverycove.com/en/premier-planning/general-park-information


PARK AREAS

Dolphin Lagoon
The location of the Dolphin Swim, Discovery Cove’s signature experience.
Depth: Shallowest Point – 0-1 feet; Deepest Point – 12 feet
Water Temperature: 80 F (26 C)

Explorer’s Aviary
Venture beyond the beaches and waterfalls of Discovery Cove and enter a hidden treasure, the Explorer's Aviary, where an inspiring natural habitat sings with the rhythm of wings and the melodies of birdsong. Watch as hundreds of colorful birds soar above and around you. Feel your heart soar as a feathered friend glides in to meet you and nibble fruit from your hand.

Freshwater Oasis
Features wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with playful otters and curious marmosets. Designed with a rainforest canopy above and sparkling-clear springs below, Freshwater Oasis is a natural fit within Discovery Cove’s tropical vibe. You can relax and explore. You’ll wade, wander, and float in the water-filled trails. No matter where you turn, you’ll find endless discoveries.
Depth: Shallowest Point – 0-1 feet; Deepest Point – 7 feet
Water Temperature: 85-86 F (30 C)

Serenity Bay
Slip into the refreshing 85-degree temperature of Discovery Cove's immense and immaculate Serenity Bay. Go for a swim in this pristine pool or simply soak up the sun as you enjoy the sparkling serenity of this fabulous freshwater playground.
This is where the lazy river, Wind-Away River begins and ends.
Depth: Shallowest Point – 0-1 feet; Deepest Point – 4 feet
Water Temperature: 85-86 F (30 C)

The Grand Reef
Families can seek discoveries along the water’s edge or cross a bridge to see sharks swimming below. Play hide-and-seek with thousands of beautiful fish, from small colorful wrasses to velvety rays. Further out in the reef, stunning habitats create the feeling of swimming right alongside sharp-toothed reef sharks safely behind glass. You can even take paths and bridges to the reef’s islands and hidden grottos as they delve into the reef from above, around and below.
This is also the location of SeaVenture.
Depth: Shallowest Point – 0-1 feet; Deepest Point – 12 feet
Water Temperature: 76-77 F (25 C)

Wind-Away River
Ride the soothing currents of a tropical river as it winds past sandy beaches, through a dense rain forest, beneath the rocky terrain of cascading waterfalls, and through an underwater cave. Glance down as you travel and take in the wonders that exist beneath the surface of the crystal-clear water.
Begins and ends in Serenity Bay.
Depth: Shallowest Point – 3 feet; Deepest Point – 8 feet
Water Temperature: 85-86 F (30 C)


PACKAGES

Day Resort Package
Basic Day Resort Package includes:
  • All-day unlimited access to Explorers Aviary, Freshwater Oasis, Serenity Bay, The Grand Reef, and Wind-Away River.
  • Complimentary breakfast and lunch, plus unlimited snacks and beverages (non-alcoholic & alcoholic) throughout the day.
  • Use of lockers, sunscreen, snorkel gear, wet suits, swim vests, showers, and changing facilities, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
Prices start at $199 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.

Day Resort Package + 2 Parks
Includes all features of the Basic Day Resort Package as described above plus unlimited admission to Aquatica and SeaWorld for 14 consecutive days.
Prices start at $259 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.

Day Resort Package + 3 Parks
Includes all features of the Basic Day Resort Package as described above plus unlimited admission to Aquatica, Busch Gardens, and SeaWorld for 14 consecutive days.
Prices start at $279 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.

Signature Dolphin Swim Package
Includes all features of the Day Resort Package plus:
  • An interactive dolphin experience. The signature dolphin swim experience begins with your group meeting a dolphin in one of our crystal clear swimming areas. Next, one of our animal care specialists will teach you all about dolphin habits, behaviors, incredible communication abilities, and the relationships they build on a daily basis with these incredible animals. After that, each group member will get a chance to individually interact with a dolphin and learn about that dolphin’s personality through behaviors.
Children must be at least 6 years old to swim with dolphins.
Children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult who also is participating in the dolphin swim experience.
Prices start at $249 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.

Signature Dolphin Swim Package + 2 Parks
Includes all features of the Signature Dolphin Swim Package as described above plus unlimited admission to Aquatica and SeaWorld for 14 consecutive days:
Prices start at $309 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.

Signature Dolphin Swim Package + 3 Parks
Includes all features of the Signature Dolphin Swim Package as described above plus unlimited admission to Aquatica, Busch Gardens, and SeaWorld for 14 consecutive days:
Prices start at $329 and are subject to change. Prices can be higher during high-demand periods and availability decreases.


UPGRADES AND ADD-ONS

Experiences

Animal Trek - an approximately 30-minute experience with the Animal Ambassadors to see behind-the-scenes and receive additional opportunities to meet some birds and small mammals.
All participants must be at least 6 years old. Children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also participating in the Animal Trek experience.
Pricing starts at $89 per person.

Celebration Package - A perfect way to celebrate that special someone’s birthday, an anniversary or simply to enhance an already wonderful day. Included in your package is:
  • A buoy with a personalized message delivered by a dolphin (Dolphin Swim Package is required on the same day as this Celebration Package reservation.)
  • 20% off Discovery Photo Package
Pricing starts at $149 per package.

Ray Feeding - Join Discovery Cove’s expert aquarists early in the morning and help them as they feed the amazing Cownose and Southern Stingrays.
Approximately 30-45 minutes will be spent in The Grand Reef, when planning your day please allow at least 1 hour & 45 minutes to complete the full program, including check-in.
All participants must be at least 6 years old. Children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult who is also participating in the Ray Feeding experience.
Pricing starts at $69 per person.

SeaVenture - an underwater walking tour in The Grand Reef where, while wearing a dive helmet, you’ll encounter unique animals, schools of fish, and velvety rays.
The full program is about 45 minutes long, including a 20-25 minute orientation.
SCUBA certification is not required.
All participants must be at least 10 years old. Children ages 10-13 must be accompanied by a supervising companion 14 or older who is also participating in the SeaVenture experience.
Pricing starts at $59 per person.

Shark Swim - step into the shark habitat for an intimate shark training session with Discovery Cove’s expert aquarists followed by donning a snorkel and mask to enjoy a deep-water, free swim with more than 20 sharks, including blacktip reef, nurse, zebra, and bonnethead sharks.
All participants must be at least 10 years old. Children ages 10-13 must be accompanied by a supervising companion 14 or older who is also participating in the Shark Swim experience.
Pricing starts at $169 per person.

Trainer for a Day - turn your all-inclusive day at Discovery Cove into a VIP experience when you add Trainer for a Day to your visit. This experience must be booked in addition to a Discovery Cove Dolphin Swim admission package and includes:
  • A second enhanced interaction with dolphins including a private photo session with 2 dolphins.
  • Access to other exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences at Discovery Cove such as special meet-and-greets with tropical birds and small mammals, a special visit to the Explorer's Aviary with your Discovery Cove trainer as your private guide, an exclusive opportunity to feed the fish in The Grand Reef, and a session with a Discovery Cove Aquarist and a private session at our otter habitat in Freshwater Oasis.
All participants must be at least 6 years old. Groups of less than 8 participants may be paired with another group.
Pricing starts at $249 per person.

Day Beds & Cabanas

Day Beds - pricing starts at $149 per day bed
Comfortable Day Beds tucked within lush landscaping and alongside pristine beaches provide a special place to relax and unwind when not in the water exploring.
Day beds fit up to 2 adults comfortably, with a maximum of 4 guests per day bed.

Private Cabana - pricing starts at $299 per cabana
Reserve your own private space, tucked within the lush landscaping and overlooking waterways, with a Discovery Cove cabana, complete with:
  • Table and Chairs
  • Chaise Lounges
  • Private Locker
  • Towel Service
  • Snack Basket
  • Mini-fridge stocked with complimentary Coca-Cola products and bottled water
Cabanas are designed to accommodate 6-8 guests comfortably, but no more than 10 guests will be permitted to occupy a single cabana. Guests ages 2 & under do not count toward the party size. Cabana locations vary and cannot be guaranteed. Limited quantities available.

Elite Cabana - pricing starts at $599 per cabana
Includes all the benefits of a Private Cabana plus:
  • Dolphin Interaction Photo Package ($229 value)
  • A buoy with a personalized message (delivered by a dolphin if a dolphin swim package is booked)
  • Discovery Cove Signature Tote Bag
VIP Cabana - pricing starts at $899 per cabana
All the benefits of an Elite Cabana plus:
  • Dedicated cabana host/hostess during your visit
  • Reserved seating at Laguna Grill for breakfast and lunch
  • Exclusive animal encounter
Discovery Photo Package

Discovery Cove offers a number of photo packages that can vary in offering from time to time. Check HERE for current offerings.

Premium Drink Package - $40 per person

Discovery Cove offers an upgraded Premium Drink Package that can vary in offering from time to time. Check HERE for current offerings.

DINING OPTIONS
Discovery Cove has several food options available throughout the day.
Breakfast and Lunch are served at Laguna Grill, which has recently been updated to eliminate the old cafeteria-style lines and introduce a new station-oriented experience.
Additionally, Hibiscus Hideway has been added with flatbread pizza and snack options available.

Laguna Grill Breakfast Hours: 7:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.
Laguna Grill Lunch Hours: 11:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
Hibiscus Hideaway Pizza Hours: 10:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.
Bar Service Hours: 10:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

Visit HERE for up-to-date menus.

SNACKS & BEVERAGES
A variety of snacks are also available at a number of locations throughout the park, including assorted chips, fresh warm soft pretzels, sugar-free cookies, whole fresh fruit, and assorted Snow Icees.

Non-alcoholic beverages, including assorted Coca-Cola products, bottled water, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea are also available.

A selection of beer and wine is available to guests over 21 years of age with proper ID (This will be verified when you check in and indicated on a lanyard that you are required to wear throughout the park.)

Food Preferences, Allergies, and Other Dietary Needs
A number of the above options are Vegan, Dairy Free, and Gluten Free. See the menus on the Discovery Cove website (https://discoverycove.com/orlando/experiences/dining/) for more information or contact Discovery Cove directly at: DCO-GuestRelations@DiscoveryCove.com

Guests with food allergies or special dietary needs are asked, upon arriving at Laguna Grill, to ask to speak with a Supervisor to discuss the severity of their allergens and determine a meal that will be safe for them.

If anyone has any other specific questions or notices something that should be corrected, please feel free to PM me or comment below.
 
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Thank you mjhtvchick for doing the information packet

I can tell you spent a good deal of time on it

Anything that helps our readers is always appreciated

I prefer to discuss somethings privately and not in open discussion boards

You or any reader can contact me by PM for any discussions
 


Does anyone know if with the 14 day Seaworld and Aquatica pass, can you go to both parks in the same day, or can you just go to one park a day. TIA
 
I don't have any personal experience with this but I can't see that it would be a problem to visit both parks on one day.
 
Their web page isn't completely user friendly when trying to book. I can book the DC package I want with no problems but when i want to add a hotel that's the only thing it will allow me to do. Can you put a deposit down and then make payments? Looking to go next May so there's plenty of time to pay it off.
 
I have no answers for you but can post so this thread is kept close to the top in the forum to get the attention of others
 
Made a couple of small revisions - integrated info regarding the Upgraded Drink Package add-on.
 
Anyone know what is the best time to show up in the morning? This is the experience that is kicking off our trip and we did buy the package with the Bush Gardens add on. Do we activate the package tix at Discovery Cove when we check in?
 
If you do not get any replies with your with your questions, use the contact email that mjhtvchick listed in the sticky above

Two of my friends went earlier this year and they gave themselves one hour before opening to arrive

Might have been over kill but they were extremely excited to be there!

They parked the car and checked in once employees were set up
 
Anyone know what is the best time to show up in the morning? This is the experience that is kicking off our trip and we did buy the package with the Bush Gardens add on. Do we activate the package tix at Discovery Cove when we check in?

If you have a dolphin swim booked, I would show up for the 7:15 check-in/breakfast. If not, it is really up to you...we usually get there around 8-8:30am. That gives us time to get registered, get our wetsuits, poke our stuff in a locker and grab a quick bite before heading to the water! :)

Since your Discovery Cove day is your first day, you can use your DC "IDs" as your passes to Sea World, Aquatica and Busch Gardens. You can always bring your booking confirmation, just in case but I have never needed anything other than my DC ID.

You are going to have an awesome day!
 

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