For centuries, dolphins have been revered as the marine world's smartest, noblest inhabitants. That reverence is renewed with every encounter at Dolphin Discovery's centers across North America. Blending the ecological stewardship of a sanctuary with the thrilling hands-on experiences of a marine park, each location introduces thousands of guests each year to the playful, powerful world of dolphins. Read on to learn more:

• Dolphin experiences: Suitable for swimmers and non-swimmers alike, Dolphin Discovery's 40-minute Dolphin Encounter places guests on a stable, submerged platform where they'll get kisses, hugs, and handshakes from their new dolphin friends. The longer Dolphin Royal Swim places guests right in the water, where they'll hitch a ride with a dorsal tow and get lifted gently out of the water with the center's famous foot push.
• Notable awards: The superior quality of Dolphin Discovery's unforgettable experiences hasn't gone unnoticed; the company has been the recipient of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, earned awards from the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association every year since 2003, and claimed 10 wins for "Shore Excursion of the Year" from Princess Cruise Lines.