DC - first timers - lots of questions

[Kathleen74]

We are off to DC in July and haven't been since 2003 and kids 1st trip so really looking forward to it. Lots of good info on here, thanks.

[Guest]

We were at Discovery Cove last Monday - a fantastic way to spend Christmas day!
We didn't arrive until about 9:15 by which time there were no queues at check in.
There were still queues at breakfast (which was served until 10ish) but I wish I'd had the advice of a previous poster and located sunbeds first as by the time we had eaten we couldn't find enough beds...it turned out to not be that big of a deal as we were in the water ALL day.
Having had arrived later it meant our dolphin swim wasn't until 3:10 and I recall that lunch that day finished at 3:30.
We had such a fabulous day and the staff that are there are so friendly and knowledgeable. We found this to be true on both the dolphin swim and in the Sting Ray pools ...they seemed to be relieved when you asked questions and showed an interest in the animals too!
We wore rash vests under our wetsuits but it was December and may not be necessary in the hotter months - I'd also advise swimshoes,that floor in the lazy river is pretty sharp!
As explained above the towels are provided but being one of the last families to leave (almost a good 8 hr day! ) we witnessed the clear up operation that ensued by the members of staff. I was so shocked to see just how many guests don't bother clearing up after themselves ... the dirty towel bin was on the way out so easy enough to drop off but folk just left them on sunbeds and on the sand...the pile of snorkels and masks that hadn't been returned was unbelievable!
It really is a great day ,enjoy!