From April until early autumn growing numbers of bottlenose dolphins migrate to the waters off the coast of Virginia Beach.
This year, along with the marine mammals, come travel deals that even Flipper would love.
“When we decided to scale back the summer vacation plans to save money, Virginia Beach seemed like a great choice for us,” said Joe Minsky, a construction foreman and father of three from Laurel. “The beach was a natural draw, but I knew the Aquarium and dolphin watch would win the kids over.”
On average, hotel prices in Virginia Beach have dropped 14 percent since 2007. “Although high gas prices are driving airfares up, hotels are looking to lure travelers by offering big savings,” said Heather Leisman, senior director of merchandising for Orbitz. “In fact, hotel rates at some of our most popular beach destinations have actually dropped since last year.”
Along with the softening hotel prices come travel incentives. The Founders Inn and Spa in Virginia Beach is promoting its “Tanks for Coming” with a $25 gas card for the purchase of a two-night package.
Nature junkies will want to put monies saved on gas and lodging toward admission to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center with its 700,000 gallons of aquariums, live animal habitats, 300 hands-on exhibits, marsh habitat and nature trail.
“The sand tiger sharks were awesome,” said Jacob Harris, a fifth-grade student and wanna-be marine biologist from Bethesda. “The biggest one, Double Notch, has the scariest teeth that look like needles.”
Visitors who want to get up-close and personal with thesea creatures will want to participate in the 90-minute ocean excursion and dolphin watch conducted by the Aquarium. Experienced educators conduct the tours sharing information about the dolphins as well as informing participants about the dolphin research done at the Aquarium.
Known for their playful and carefree character, the dolphins are considered friendly but can be territorial. Viewing them from a boat is ideal to ensure safety.
“Some of the dolphins were just inches away from the boat,” said Harris. “I wanted to pet one, but my mom wouldn’t let me.”
ON THE NET
