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Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration's Beluga Encounter has become one of the most popular activities at the Aquarium. |
Beluga Encounter
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration’s popular Beluga Encounter Program has been a great hit among visitors. The role of this program is to help Aquarium visitors better understand these magnificent animals by having a more intimate experience with them. This is a great opportunity for visitors to really connect with a beluga whale and learn about them, their habitat and conservation.
The 90-minute program is broken into three parts. Before getting into the water, participants are briefed on the history and physiology of beluga whales, as well as the "ground rules" for participation in the encounter. Next, participants will put on waterproof gear and wade into the waist-deep water of the rocky Arctic Coast exhibit with the whales and trainers. They will be able to touch the whale’s back and belly and see up-close how they breathe, spout and "sing." 
Aquarium trainers will teach participants how we care for the whales and demonstrate the way in which contact sessions are beneficial to the whale’s health and well-being. Program participants will be waist- to chest-deep in water but will not swim with the whales, and all feeding will be done by our trainers. The last "segment" of the program is a debriefing, during which the trainer and those who participated in the program review the previous contact experience. Questions are asked by participants and a better understanding of the beluga is realized.
Aquarium staff will review a few brief bits of information on the animal’s habitat and environmental impact by humans. Finally, there is a period of discussion where participants share their reactions to the encounter. The Aquarium’s three belugas range in weight from approximately 1,300 to 2,000 pounds and are very docile, gentle animals.
Beluga Encounter Programs are currently not being offered but will start up again in the spring. Remember: these programs make great gifts! The program lasts approximately 90 minutes and individuals participating in the encounter program must be at least five feet tall and able to stand on their own throughout the program.
The cost of the Beluga Encounter Program is $159 (non-members) $149 (members) which includes admission to the Aquarium as well as a professional photo of your encounter.
To inquire about one of our programs or tours, please complete our online Program Registration Form. After you complete the form, a Reservations staff member will contact you to obtain payment and finalize your reservation.
Reservations are recommended for this program as spaces fill quickly. For additional information, please call 860-572-5955 ext. 520. Spaces may also be reserved on-site at our Information Booth.
Still have questions about our Beluga Encounter Program? Click above and find your answers.
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration is a non-profit organization. All proceeds from this program and others as well as ticket sales go to funding our education, marine research, marine rescue and release and expeditions.
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