Contributed by Debra Blackburn

Wouldn't it be nice if everything you learned could be a hands-on experience and a great adventure to boot. Virginia Aquarium is just the right place to do that. The aquarium offers other great educational experiences that are ever changing.  I found out that they have educational programs for just about any age group, from toddlers to adults. Everything is hands-on and they make it so interesting that it is really fun to learn. During this holiday season I couldn't think of a better gift then the gift of learning.

See Dolphins in Their Natural Habitat

Each year, bottlenose dolphins migrate off the Virginia Beach coast during the warmer months. The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center offerers unique boat trips aboard the 65-foot Rudee Flipper, an up-close view of the wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Observe dolphins as the feed, tail slap and jump among the waves. Learn about dolphin social behaviors and the Aquarium's latest research studies.  This 90-minute excursion is both fun and educational for adults and children.

Cruises are offered April through October. Call (757) 385-FISH for more information. Prices and departure times are subject to change. Tickets may be purchased at either Aquarium building or at the dock. For school or group trip information, call (757) 385-0332. Click here to see the Aquarium's current Calendar of Events.

DOLPHIN WATCHING PACKAGE AT BARCLAY COTTAGE

Available 4/17/10 -  9/6/10

See dolphins swim, jump and play in your boat's wake.  Get up close and personal with these summer residents of Virginia Beach!

Stay at Barclay Cottage Bed & Breakfast for two nights and wake to a scrumptuous full breakfast each morning.  Explore the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center's Ocean and Marsh Pavilions and take in the sights along the Owl's Creek Nature Path between the two.  Be amazed by a 3-D IMAX Theater Presentation.  Take a two hour Dolphin Watching trip on a boat guided by naturalists from theVirginia Aquarium , and, if you forget yours, use our binoculars during the trip to spot many seabirds and check out the ships and shoreline features.  Enjoy a delicious dinner at Rockafeller's Restaurant - a Virginia Beach seafood favorite.