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Are the dolphins at Disney World real?

Epcot currently holds three remaining captive dolphins. Their names are Ranier (wild-captured), Calvin (captive bred), and Malabar (captive bred).



Yes, the dolphins at Walt Disney World are real, live Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. They reside at The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion in EPCOT, specifically in the massive 5.7-million-gallon saltwater tank. This facility is part of Disney’s commitment to marine research and conservation. Guests can see the dolphins through the underwater viewing windows or participate in the "EPCOT Seas Adventures – Dolphins in Depth" tour, which allows for a close-up, educational encounter with the animals and their trainers. Unlike the animatronic animals found on the Jungle Cruise or in Na'vi River Journey, these dolphins are cared for by a dedicated team of marine biologists and veterinarians. In 2026, Disney continues to use this habitat to educate the public about marine ecosystems and to participate in national breeding and rescue programs. While they are highly trained, they are not performing "tricks" in a traditional circus sense; rather, their training is focused on medical husbandry and enrichment to ensure their physical and mental well-being in a managed environment.

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The statues on top of the Dolphin hotel are not mammalian dolphins, but a stylized version of a nautical dolphin, a common symbol used on old world nautical maps. The design of the creatures is based on Triton Fountain in Rome.

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Know Before You Go Please note that this is a wading encounter where the dolphins are brought to you in waist-deep water. You will not actually be swimming with the dolphins at any time. Guests must be at least 48” (122 cm) tall. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

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Meet the real lion king—and queens—in the expansive wilds of a Disney African savanna.

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It's also less than 20-30 minute walk from Dolphin to Epcot/Hollywood Studios. For Animal Kingdom / Magic Kingdom - Walk to the bus stop in front of the Boardwalk hotel, as the Disney buses are quicker than the ones the Dolphin provides.

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How much does the mandatory Resort Service Package cost and what does it include? Daily $40 resort service package fee (+ tax) includes daily benefits for two guests: In-room wireless internet. Loyalty Program guests receive enhanced speed in-room wireless internet.

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I love staying at the Swan and Dolphin. My recent stay with my family of three ended up costing about $300 a night, but it was well worth the money. Overall, the location, amenities, and Marriott benefits make the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels some of my favorites at Disney World.

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While the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels are considered Walt Disney World Resorts, they are not owned and operated by Disney. These hotels are owned by Tishman Realty & Construction Corporation and MetLife and are managed by Marriott International, Inc.

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