Ever wondered if you could afford to go to Discovery Cove? Well we did too. For years we visited our favourite Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and SeaWorld, giving our feet a rest with days at Aquatica.

We had heard about Discovery Cove, seen the advertisements on TV and saw the posters at SeaWorld but always thought we couldn’t afford it. Coming from the UK we usually buy our attraction tickets in advance…14 day Universal three park ticket, 14 day SeaWorld ticket which include Aquatica and a Universal Halloween Horror Nights frequent fear pass. Paying for those left us no money for Discovery Cove.

Then after telling myself we really must go I looked more into the pricing of the tickets and discovered that a basic Discovery cove ticket also gave you 14 days admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica. And if you paid a little more even Busch Gardens was included. Well now you’re talking. From then on we have visited every year.

What is there to do at Discovery cove?

Personally I think a day at Discovery Cove goes so fast. We usually aim to get there about 8am. Parking is free and because entry is limited to only around 1300 guests once you have checked in there are virtually no queues.

For those who haven’t been before staff escort you to the check in desks where you will have your photograph taken for your ID card. You will need your booking details and either passport or some sort of photo ID. They then give you a lanyard with your waterproof photo card and a waterproof mini map of the resort. The card also serves as your admission ticket to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch gardens (if you paid the extra).

After check in you are greeted by other staff members who show you where the changing rooms and lockers are and where to pick up your wet suits, snorkel and goggles. We usually grab a locker first to dump our bags then head for breakfast before getting changed for swimming. There are plenty of loungers throughout the resort and towels are provided in the changing rooms – I usually get two for my lounger.

Wearing a wet suit or vest is compulsory so that staff can see guests easily. These are available in many sizes.

Breakfast and lunch are included and are all you can eat – drinks included. Find a table after choosing your meal. Watch out for the Blue Jays and egrets eyeing up your leftovers – staff clear away promptly. Most guests are usually in their swimming gear for lunch.

The resort is split into several areas

Wind Away River

This is a Freshwater River with a slow current and quite warm water. The depth varies and if you aren’t using your snorkel you can get caught out by the sudden change in depth although there are warning signs and plenty of lifeguards. It is themed like a real riverbed and runs through a heavily planted tropical canopy with waterfalls. In parts it flows through the Explorers Aviary and the Freshwater Oasis. There are several entry and exit points but we usually enter through the themed caves at the far side of Serenity Bay. Noodles are available for children and those less able. If you haven’t snorkelled before give it a try – it opens up a whole new world.

Dolphin Lagoon

This is where you join your group if you have upgraded to include a 30 minute Dolphin experience ending with a short swim with a dolphin by holding onto it’s dorsal fin.

Explorers Aviary

This can be reached via the Wind Away River or taking the left path after passing Serenity Bay. Here you can feed the friendly birds and learn more about them from the staff members. Tip – It’s best to feed them early morning as they get full by lunchtime and not as interactive. Food for the birds is free.

Freshwater Oasis

Here you can see playful Otters and an island with Marmosets. Found near the end of the Wind away River near the entrance to the Explorers Aviary.

The Grand Reef

This is as close to snorkelling in the sea as you can get. The Grand Reef is teeming with brightly coloured fish and sting rays. They glide effortlessly past and you’ve to be on the ball to get a good photo. Be aware that this is saltwater and feels like ice after being in the warm waters of Wind Away River – best just to take the plunge quickly. The edges of the reef are shallow so you can just wade in and gets about ten feet deep towards the back with man made corals and gorges to explore.

You can watch the fish and rays being fed at several times during the day. At the far side to the right of the reef is a shark pool, separated from the reef by a glass wall. You can swim right up and as the glass wall is at an angle when you are snorkelling it feels like the sharks are above you. In this area there are sandy exits leading to bridges overlooking the shark pool on your right and on the left you can see the part of the reef where the Sea Venture takes place.

Serenity Bay

Serenity Bay is a relaxing area with warm tranquil waters. On one side of the path are low chairs where you sit and enjoy your snacks from the nearby kiosk. On the other side is a large free form lagoon again with warm fresh water, a sandy beach and a cave system leading to the Wind Away River.

Is Discovery Cove really all Inclusive?

Yes, you can leave your wallet at home. The only thing you’ll need money for is for photographs if you choose to have them or upgrades. You do need your passport or Photo ID. On check in they will take your photograph and give you a lanyard with a photo card attached. You can use this at SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch gardens (if applicable).

Your ticket includes

• all you can eat breakfast.
• all you can eat lunch
• free snacks and drinks (hot,cold and alcoholic) throughout the day at kiosks dotted around the resort
• free lockers
• use of soft large white towels
• animal and fish friendly sunscreen
• use of snorkel and goggles
• you get to keep your snorkel
• use of wet suit or vest
• use of hair driers in changing rooms
• plastic bags to put your wet swim gear into
• free parking

Ticket prices vary according to the time of year and start around $149 for the basic day package which doesn’t include a swim with the dolphins, $199 with a dolphin swim, up to $399 to be a trainer for the day. Children under two are free with a full paying adult but a reservation is still required. Tickets must be bought in advance and a date specified. Discounts are available for Florida residents.

Upgrades

Sea Venture – wearing a dive helmet you will walk on the floor of the Grand Reef

Animal Trek – a 60 minute escorted tour behind the scenes with a chance to meet birds and small mammals.

Rent a Cabana – Have your own private space with table and chairs, locker, towels, unlimited drinks and snacks. Ideally for up to 6 guests.

Day bed – big enough for two to relax in after time in the water.

Drink package – With options such as Rum Punch, Sangria, upgraded wines and craft beers.

Ray feeding – Join the staff feeding rays and fish early in the morning.

Swim with sharks – If you’re brave enough.

Last year I noticed some guests were actually feeding sharks after training.

I think Discovery Cove is well worth the money considering you get unlimited visits to Aquatica and SeaWorld for 14 days – this can commence prior to your visit to Discovery Cove – just show your documents with the bar code. It may not be as exciting as Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure but if you feel you need to chill out and give your feet a rest this is the place to be.

Just one more thought – all the photos are my own. I highly recommend purchasing an underwater camera even if it’s only a disposable one. Discovery cove does have photo packages which are most likely essential if you do the dolphin swim as other guests can only watch from the shore.

Do leave a comment if you can add anything or ask any questions and I’ll do my best to help.