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Encounter: Penguin Plunge2026-06-18T12:17:37-05:00

Penguin Plunge

Prepare to plunge into an adventure like never before! This encounter is designed to offer guests a unique blend of both dry land and in-water experiences, providing an up-close look at how African penguins navigate their environment.

PENGUIN PLUNGE

Fast Facts

Price: Starting at $119

Ages & Height: 8 years old & up and 48+ inches

Duration: 15 minutes

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* Price of encounter does not include admission. Must have general admission in order to participate in this experience.

* Penguin Plunge is seasonal.

Penguin Plunge

On dry land, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the fascinating features of an African penguin’s anatomy as our Animal Care Specialists share insights into their behavior, biology, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these endangered species.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! You’ll also have the chance to join the penguins in the water, where you can witness their graceful underwater movements and playful antics up close. Whether they’re diving or swimming, you’ll be mesmerized by their agility and charm.

Throughout the encounter there will be multiple photo opportunities to capture these unforgettable moments, like being able to touch these animals up close.

Join us for the brand new Penguin Plunge encounter, where you’ll not only learn about these incredible animals, but also create memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Due to the in-water nature of this program, guests are required to bring their own swimming attire which must be worn with or without the use of a wetsuit.
  • Participants must be at least 48 inches tall. This limit is strictly enforced.
  • Participants with special needs including mobility, seeing, or hearing impairments must contact Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park prior to reserving the encounter.

  • Encounter must be paid in full at the time of reservation.
  • Encounters continue rain or shine, no refunds or exchanges due to inclement weather.
  • 24-hour notice must be given in order to receive a full refund of the purchase price.
  • We strongly recommend that guests arrive at the park at least one hour prior to their scheduled encounter. The Gulfarium is located in a high-traffic area, and refunds will not be issued for late arrivals due to traffic delays. Please note that encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time for any reason. However, we are happy to assist with rescheduling, pending availability.
  • Encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time unless Encounter Protection has been purchased. If you need to reschedule within this 24-hour window or after a missed encounter, rebooking is subject to availability and is not guaranteed.
  • Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.
  • Cameras/phones are not allowed into animal enclosures or on docks as participants’ hands must be free to interact with the animals.  Family and friends are welcome to take photos from general admission viewing areas.
  • For the safety of the animals, remove jewelry and loose articles from pockets prior to the start of the encounter.
  • All pricing is subject to change.
child snorkeling with a stingray

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take photos during my encounter?2025-05-26T15:06:57-05:00

Cameras/phones are not allowed into animal enclosures or on docks as participants’ hands must be free to interact with the animals.  Family and friends are welcome to take photos from viewing areas.

My child is seven years old, can they participate?2025-04-03T16:57:30-05:00

No, due to age limitations and educational content, participants must be at least eight (8) years of age.

For Penguin Plunge only, participants must also be 48+ inches tall as well as meet the age requirement.

Does the encounter price include general admission?2025-05-26T15:07:08-05:00

Unless otherwise noted, the encounter price does not include general admission.  General admission must be purchased in addition to the encounter.

Can I get a refund if it is raining on the day of my encounter?2025-05-26T15:07:17-05:00

Encounters continue rain or shine, no refunds or exchanges due to inclement weather.

What do the penguins eat?2023-03-15T17:51:55-05:00

The penguins eat a variety of fish including capelin and smelt.

Will I get to touch the penguins?2023-03-15T17:51:55-05:00

Yes, the Discover Penguins encounter includes the opportunity to touch a penguin.

What types of penguins reside at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park?2025-04-29T10:20:05-05:00

The penguins at the Gulfarium are African penguins, commonly found along the southern coast of Africa in warm climates.

What is your cancelation policy?2025-05-26T15:07:52-05:00

General Admission Cancelation Policy

  • General admission tickets are nonrefundable and are valid for one year from date of purchase. Blackout dates may apply to discounted tickets.

Encounter Cancelation Policy

  • Cancelation: 24-hour notice must be given to receive a full refund of the purchase price of the encounter.
  • We strongly recommend that guests arrive at the park at least one hour prior to their scheduled encounter. The Gulfarium is located in a high-traffic area, and refunds will not be issued for late arrivals due to traffic delays. Please note that encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time for any reason. However, we are happy to assist with rescheduling, pending availability.
  • Encounters are non-refundable within 24 hours of the scheduled start time unless Encounter Protection has been purchased. If you need to reschedule within this 24-hour window or after a missed encounter, rebooking is subject to availability and is not guaranteed.
  • Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.
What is Encounter Protection?2025-05-26T15:07:59-05:00

Encounter Protection: Purchased Encounter Protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your encounter for any reason up to 2 hours before the Encounter’s scheduled time to begin. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of each encounter, less the cost of the trip protection and processing fees. This policy does not apply to admission tickets. Rebooking times are based on availability. Guests must call us at (850) 243-9046 x24 to cancel or rebook to have the encounter protection refund applied. Encounter refunds do not automatically apply. If you do not call at least 2 hours in advance of your booked time, the Encounter protection is void.

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