Bali Dolphin Interaction: Discovery vs. Encounter vs. Explorer — Which Program Is Right for You?
Planning a vacation to Bali and want to experience interacting directly with dolphins? The Bali dolphin interaction program at Bali Exotic Marine Park (BEMP) is one of the most iconic and authentic tourist activities on the Island of the Gods. But many prospective visitors are confused: Discovery, Encounter, or Explorer—which one should you choose?
Read More:
- Dolphin Watching in Bali Without Going to Lovina
- A Guide to a Responsible Bali Swim with Dolphin Experience
A Quick Look at Bali Exotic Marine Park (BEMP)
Before discussing each program, it’s important to get to know the place where all these Bali dolphin interaction experiences take place.
Bali Exotic Marine Park (BEMP), also known as Bali Dolphin Marine Park, is the only official conservation institution in Bali that offers experiences to play, learn, and interact directly with dolphins. BEMP is located at Jl. Bali Eksotik No. 8, Pedungan, Denpasar, and operates under an official license from the Ministry of Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia.
What makes BEMP unique:
- A dolphin habitat spanning 2,506,000 liters of seawater—the largest in Indonesia
- More than 60,000 guests have participated in the Discovery program since 2019
- A Google rating of 4.6/5 from over 545 reviews
- Active in marine conservation, research, and education programs
- A member of leading international organizations dedicated to marine animal welfare
BEMP is more than just an entertainment venue—it is a pioneer in Bali’s dolphin conservation efforts, committed to the ethical well-being of the animals.
1. Discovery+ — The Best VIP Program for Groups & Families
What Is Discovery+?
The Dolphin Discovery+ Program is the premium version of the Discovery program, specifically designed for small groups seeking a more exclusive and private Bali dolphin interaction experience. One Discovery+ package includes up to 6 Discovery tickets at once, making it the best value option for families or tour groups.
What Do You Get?
The Discovery+ program invites you into the water to interact directly with dolphins at Indonesia’s largest dolphinarium. The session is led by experienced instructors who speak both English and Indonesian.
Exclusive amenities available only with Discovery+:
- Priority check-in — no need to wait in long lines.
- Private session — only your group will be in the session (max. 6 people).
- Exclusive sofa in the lounge — premium comfort before and after the session.
- Snack basket & mocktail/soft drinks.
- All photos on a wood-engraved USB drive — no need to pick and choose photos.
- 1 printed photo in a frame as a physical keepsake.
- Souvenirs, towels, insurance, and lockers are included.
Discovery+ Price
IDR 8,580,000 per group (includes VAT & Service Charge) — for up to 6 people.
If any group members wish to choose a different program, tickets can be purchased separately.
Ready to Experience Bali’s Most Exclusive Dolphin Interaction?
Discovery+ offers a VIP and private experience swimming and playing with dolphins—perfect for families or special groups.
2. Discovery — Best Seller, Swim with Dolphins Experience
What Is Discovery?
Discovery is BEMP’s flagship program and has been the most popular since it first launched in 2019. It offers the most highly recommended swim-with-dolphins experience in Bali.
In this program, you’ll enter the water alongside dolphins and experienced instructors, witnessing firsthand the intelligence and agility of these extraordinary marine animals.
What Do You Get?
The Discovery program is the most immersive dolphin interaction experience in Bali—you’ll actually be in the water with the dolphins. Activities include:
- An in-water session with the dolphins.
- A dolphin feeding session.
- Guidance from English- and Indonesian-speaking instructors.
- 1 digital photo included.
- A welcome drink.
- Towels and shower facilities.
Discovery Prices
Prices vary by age group (adults/children). Check the latest prices at: balidolphinmarinepark.com/discovery-2
Swim with Dolphins in Denpasar — BEMP’s Best Seller!
The Discovery Program is the best way to experience a Bali dolphin interaction firsthand in the water—guided by instructors, safe, and educational.
3. Encounter — A Family-Friendly Poolside Interaction
What Is Encounter?
Encounter is a Bali dolphin interaction program conducted from the poolside. You can still touch, feed, and interact directly with the dolphins, but from a safe and comfortable poolside platform.
This program is labeled “Child Friendly!” and is perfect for families with young children as well as senior visitors.
What Do You Get?
- Direct poolside interaction with dolphins.
- A dolphin feeding session.
- Guidance from an animal instructor (fun and educational).
- 1 digital photo included.
- A welcome drink.
- A souvenir.
- A locker.
No special swimwear is required—you can enjoy all interactions from the poolside.
Encounter Prices
- Adults (12 years and older): IDR 650,000
- Children (1–11 years): IDR 580,000
See the Guest Terms & Conditions for details on children’s discounts.
Exciting Interactions Without Getting Wet — Suitable for All Ages!
Encounter offers a safe and fun Bali dolphin interaction from the poolside—the best choice for families with young children.
4. Explorer — Quick Encounter + Afternoon High Tea
What Is Explorer?
Explorer is the most casual program among all Bali dolphin interaction options at BEMP. Labeled “Quick & Easy,” this program is designed for guests who want a brief encounter with dolphins from the poolside, followed by an English-style afternoon high tea in an exclusive lounge.
Perfect for those who want to experience a Bali marine park without a long-term time commitment.
What Do You Get?
- A brief meet & greet with dolphins from the poolside.
- A dolphin kiss from the poolside.
- A tour of Bali’s first and only marine conservation facility.
- An English-style afternoon high tea set in the lounge.
- Unlimited lounge access — relax as much as you like after the session.
- 1 digital photo included.
A Memorable Brief Encounter + Elegant High Tea by the Dolphin Pool
The Explorer package is the most laid-back way to experience a Bali dolphin interaction—perfect for guests with limited time who still want an unforgettable moment.
Why Choose Bali Exotic Marine Park for Dolphin Interaction in Bali?
There are many places offering “swim with dolphins” experiences in Bali, but BEMP stands out because:
- The only certified conservation institution in Bali. BEMP operates under an official license from the Indonesian Ministry of Forestry and is actively involved in marine research, rehabilitation, and education programs.
- The largest facility in Indonesia. With a seawater capacity of 2.5 million liters, its habitat provides a spacious and comfortable environment for the dolphins.
- Strict animal welfare standards. All interactions adhere to strict animal welfare policies. Dolphins are never forced to perform tricks, and guests are educated on how to interact ethically.
- Experienced instructors. Each session is led by trained experts—ensuring a safe, educational, and meaningful experience.
- Contributing to conservation. A portion of BEMP’s revenue is allocated to marine ecosystem conservation programs, including mangrove restoration and marine wildlife rescue.
Bali Exotic Marine Park — Bali’s Favorite Educational Tourism Destination
Bali Exotic Marine Park (BEMP) has established itself as Bali’s leading educational tourism destination, not only because of its extraordinary Bali dolphin interaction experience but also because of the comprehensive ecosystem it has built around it.
Within the BEMP grounds, you’ll find:
- ANg Restaurant — a unique dining experience with a direct view of the dolphin pool
- PRIDE Academy — educational field trip programs for schools and educational institutions
- Campus Facilities — comprehensive marine research and education facilities
- Conservation Tours — exclusive tours of conservation facilities you won’t find anywhere else
BEMP is strategically located—just 15 minutes from Sanur, 30 minutes from Kuta, and 40–45 minutes from Seminyak and Nusa Dua. It’s open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. WIB.
For more information about Bali Exotic Marine Park, visit balidolphinmarinepark.com or contact their team:
- Bali Eksotik No. 8, Pedungan, South Denpasar, Bali 80222
- +62 853-3883-3678
- baliexoticmarinepark@gmail.com
Don’t Miss the Best Bali Dolphin Interaction Experience on the Island of the Gods!
Book your tickets now to secure your spot. BEMP is very popular and often sells out during peak season.
BOOK YOUR PROGRAM NOW — View All Programs & Check Availability
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions About Bali Dolphin Interaction
1. Is there an age restriction for swimming with dolphins in Bali?
Yes, there is an age restriction to ensure the safety of all participants. For the Discovery program (swimming in the water), children must be accompanied by an adult participating in the same program.
2. When is the best time to swim with dolphins in Bali?
For visits to Bali Exotic Marine Park, the park is open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM WIB. However, in general, the dry season (April–October) is the best time to vacation in Bali because the weather is more stable.
3. Is it safe to swim with dolphins for those who aren’t strong swimmers?
The Discovery program does involve activities in the water, but all sessions are closely monitored by experienced instructors. If you’re not confident in your swimming ability, the Encounter program is an excellent choice. This is because all interactions take place from the poolside without needing to enter the water at all.
4. What should you bring when visiting a dolphin interaction program in Bali?
For the Discovery and Discovery+ programs, bring swimwear that complies with BEMP’s dress code. For all programs, you may bring a smartphone to take photos (separate cameras are not permitted). Also bring a change of clothes for after the session.
5. How can you ensure that dolphin interaction activities support conservation?
Choose an operator that is transparent about its conservation efforts. BEMP is the best example: it is an official, government-licensed conservation institution actively engaged in marine research, the rehabilitation of rescued dolphins, and mangrove restoration programs. Every ticket you purchase directly contributes to these programs.
