In Reply to: Lavinia Beach Price to swim with dolphin posted by Donna on Friday, 30. March 2007 at 19:58 Bali Time:
I went to the Melka Hotel & did the dolphin swim in Feb 2007. It costs Rp 225,000 for 20 minutes. Like you, I wanted the experience of a dolphin interaction. I also wanted to see for myself if they were happy & well cared for.
It was an hour of my life I wish I could change. I am ashamed that I have selfishly contributed to the exploitation of these gorgeous creatures.
I think the owners of Melka started out with altruistic motives rescuing and housing animals in need. Unfortunately it has deteriorated into making a fast buck at the animals' expense. Now that the dolphins are healthy, they have to earn their living swimming with tourists - whether they like it or not. There is nowhere for them to go if they don't want to interact with the swimmers. We are not talking Sea World here. These swimming pools are the same size as most moderate hotel swimming pools.
The zoo which is on the property is stark with little attempt made to house the animals in a natural environment. Though the animals look well fed & have a place to live, I wonder about their mental health. Many are in concrete cages on their own. Their lone orangutan's eyes will break your heart.
Why not go on a dolphin tour from Lovina beach at dawn & watch the wild dolphins in their own environment - the ocean. At least you this way you will know that any dolphins you see will be there by choice. It might spare you a guilty conscience later on.