The Big Sochi Dolphinarium is one of the most popular and largest dolphinariums in Sochi, located in the Riviera Park. It is considered the largest in Eastern Europe and one of the best on the Black Sea coast. This year-round complex offers visitors shows featuring marine animals, as well as additional services such as dolphin-assisted therapy and swimming with dolphins.
The Dolphinarium opened on September 15, 2012. It is a multi-purpose complex with an indoor and aquatic show arena, designed to operate year-round, regardless of weather. Integrated into the Riviera Park, it offers a full range of marine-related entertainment.
The Dolphinarium is located in the Riviera Park in central Sochi. The arena is an amphitheater with 1,300 seats. The demonstration pool is 285 square meters in area and 7 meters deep, with a constant water temperature of 24°C. The indoor structure protects from rain and other weather conditions. The complex meets barrier-free requirements, making it accessible to people with disabilities. Hours: Shows are held Tuesday through Sunday, with Mondays closed. Museums and exhibitions are open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The dolphinarium is home to various marine mammals, who are the stars
of the show:
Black Sea dolphins: Geo (born September 20, 2018),
Nika (born April 8, 2018), Era (born February 22, 2017), Novik (born
November 5, 2012), Nelson (born June 21, 2016), and Kometa (born May 31,
2017). There's also a small and charismatic baby dolphin named Light.
Beluga whales (white whales): Gosha (12 years old, weighing
approximately 2,000 kg, over 5 m long, sedate and sociable) and Glasha
(12 years old, curious and spirited).
Sea lion: Timon is a young,
professional performer with a cunning character, devoted to his trainer.
Walruses and sea lions are also mentioned in the general descriptions of
the show.
The new show lasts 50 minutes and features performances by dolphins, beluga whales, and a sea lion. The animals demonstrate amazing tricks, grace, and interaction with their trainers. After the show, visitors can take photos with the performers or swim with the dolphins. Schedule: Tuesday through Sunday at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Entrance to the show costs 800 rubles. Photos and swimming with the dolphins are available for an additional fee. Tickets can be purchased online on the official website.
Dolphin Therapy: Therapeutic sessions for children and adults.
Swimming with dolphins and beluga whales: Opportunity to swim with the
animals after the show.
Dolphin Diving: A special program for lovers
of the underwater world.
Photo Sessions: Photo sessions with your
favorite performers.
Annual Pass and Educational Programs: For
regular visitors.
The complex also includes an oceanarium with
tropical fish, sharks, moray eels, and a coral reef; a penguin bar; a
"Dolphin's Sweet Corner"; a water shooting gallery and virtual reality
experience; and a souvenir shop.
Other dolphinariums in Sochi
In addition to the Big Sochi Dolphinarium, in the Sochi (Adler) area
there is the "Akvatoria" Dolphinarium at 219 Lenina Street. It offers
dolphin shows and is open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Dolphins, walruses,
belugas, sea lions, and seals live here. This is another popular family
vacation spot.