Marineland opened in June of 1938 as Marine Studios – a facility designed for Hollywood film makers to create underwater footage for their movies. The founders, Douglas Burden, CV Whitney and Count Ilia Tolstoy could never have foreseen the excitement that this innovative “oceanarium” would create among the general public. Never before had people had the opportunity to see marine life live and up close, and from the day it opened, Marineland has provided that opportunity to millions of amazed guests.
Throughout the years, Marineland has pioneered studies in marine science, animal training, water chemistry and so much more. Marineland served as the model by which so many other aquariums, oceanariums and marine parks based their own development and design. Marineland was also the first to successfully breed and train Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, and it was the early scientists here who discovered dolphin echolocation, social behavior and communication. Some of these topics remain intriguing to many about these remarkable animals even to this day. Although a more beautiful location for the world's first oceanarium could not have been chosen, the effects of the salty air, hurricanes and time on steel pools made their presence known. Because of the decline in structural integrity to many of the pools and habitats that made up Marineland, in 2004, the time finally came for the older structures to be retired. The antiquated, yet one-of-a-kind facility had provided an enriching home to our animals, been an educational resource to our guests and been a never-ending source of inspiration and scientific knowledge for our employees. Now it was time for change.
Marineland - Today
The early months of 2006 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Marineland when it opened as Marineland’s Dolphin Conservation Center. The modern 1.3 million gallon facility was designed with the behavioral needs of the animal, the viewing capabilities of the scientist, the logistical needs of the trainer, and the “edutainment” needs of our guest in mind. However, we did not forget our roots. You’ll see tributes to our Marineland of Florida heritage everywhere you look, and we will always remember what made us great. With our past in mind, we have chosen our path for the future: interactions instead of passive viewing.
Gone are the days when the emphasis was on performing animals. Now the guests join our animals in their habitats and make the physical and emotional connection that inevitably leads to a true understanding of why we need to protect these incredible animals and their marine environment. Programs such as the Immersion and Discover Dolphins lead you into a watery world like none you’ve ever experienced before. Looking for something less adventurous? Keep your feet on dry land as you meet the dolphins in our Touch and Feed program, or participate in Dolphin Designs for the more artistically inclined.
Not sure which program is best for you? Why not come on down and spend some time observing! Comfortable chairs and plenty of viewing opportunities allow you to watch the dolphins both above and below the water while they interact with program participants, play with their toys and work with their trainers. Staff and volunteers will gladly answer your questions, and informative signage will keep even the most knowledgeable guests learning! With dolphins in front of you and the ocean behind you, this quiet and peaceful setting is a great place for a relaxing family visit.
In 2011, Marineland’s Dolphin Conservation Center was renamed Marineland Dolphin Adventure. As Marineland settles into its new role in the community as a place for education, inspiration and connection, we continue to expand our audience by expanding the programs we offer. Summer camps, school field trips, weddings, corporate functions and neighborhood meetings all benefit from the beautiful scenery, charismatic dolphins and multi-purpose meeting areas.
Over 70 years after our introduction to the world as an underwater film studio, and over 50 years after the first dolphin show debuted, Marineland continues as a leader in marine conservation, animal care and community education. We’d love to see you here.
MISSION STATEMENT
Marineland Dolphin Adventure was founded to foster the preservation and protection of marine life. Our mission is to utilize interactive education, enhanced by on-site research, to inspire visitors to value and respect marine mammals and their environment.
