Samui Holiday Homes- swimming with sea lions

One of Koh Samui's newest and most exciting attractions and a must for all animal lovers, the sea lion centre offers a unique opportunity to swim and interact with these magnificent animals. The centre is the brainchild of world-renowned marine mammal veterinary specialist, Dr. Ted Hammond, who consults at zoos, ocean parks, and breeding centres from all over the planet. Ted rescued the 4 young sea lion pups from their native Uruguay, where these animals are culled under government sanctions pressured by fishermen. The programs offered are a new take on the established dolphin swim programs of the Caribbean and Red Sea, and provide a similar level of excitement and wonder. One of Ted's main goals and aspirations is to promote understanding and appreciation of wild animals, nature, and the environment, through direct experience, which he hopes will have a positive impact of their future. The centre is a highly recommended family day out, and never fails to thrill, as the smiles on the faces of the visitors below testify.

Interactive Programs

The design of all programs starts with the sea lions well-being; they are not required to perform any kind of tricks, interaction with them occurs in a very natural way, and they are taught by positive reinforcement only.

These programs have a strong educational content, including information on animal care, housing, nourishment, and training.

Plan to get wet! Bring a towel, bathing suit, and a smile!

Splash Session

Start time 10:00, 12:00, 15:00 Tuesday-Sunday

70 minutes of fun, water, and information. There are two training periods during each Splash session. You are invited to get into the water and interact with the sea lions. There is a seating area inside the pool, and the sea lions will swim slowly by allowing you to touch them. They are very affectionate, and enjoy attention. They have even been known to give hugs and Kisses. There is a size and age restriction since the sea lions are growing boys, and now weigh 65-70 kilograms, which can be intimidating to younger children. Pregnant women are also excluded from entering the programs as a safety precaution.

Price: 1500 THB

Assistant Trainer Program

Start time 14:00, Tuesday-Sunday

A 2.5 hour program with four training sessions, in which you will experience everything a professional trainer must do each day with their animals. You will be in the fish room, in the water, and training new behaviors with the sea lions. There is a short classroom lecture for your safety and to instruct you on how to interact with the sea lion you are training. The professional staff will be with you the entire time, offering guidance and education on how to be an Assistant Trainer.

This program is for the serious visitor that wants to know more about sea lions and what it is like being a trainer.

Included in your fee: 25-30 pictures plus 20 random pictures of the sea lions burned on a CD for you to take home, as well as refreshments, and a hat or T-shirt.

Price: 3500 THB