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Batumi Dolphinarium (Georgian: ბათუმის დელფინარიუმი), in the city of Batumi on Georgia’s Black Sea coast, opened in 1975. At the time it was the first dolphinarium in the whole of the Soviet Union.

Bottlenose Dolphins Performing. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

Its facilities were upgraded in 2011. New pools, water filtration and temperature systems were installed and seating capacity increased to 700 spectators.

700 Seat Batumi Dolphinarium. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

The Dolphinarium is home to 8 Bottlenose Dolphins (called Zoro, Maya, Monica, Tsitsi, Flipper, Marco, and the little ones – Nini and Kviria) and several California Sea Lions.

A Bottlenose Dolphin. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

A California Sea Lion and a Bottlenose Dolphin. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

The dolphin demonstration is an educational performance as well as an opportunity to show off the dolphins love of play.

Dolphin Trainers. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

The dolphins perform dances, play with rings and balls, and balance on their tails.

Bottlenose Dolphins at Batumi Dolphinarium. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

Visitors also have an opportunity to swim with the dolphins.

Swimming with Dolphins. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

Swimming with Dolphins at Batumi Dolphinarium. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

What times are the performances? During the Summer there are three shows per day at 14:00, 17:00 and 21:00. There are special facilities for people with disabilities. Check with the Dolphinarium website for further details.

How much does it cost? Tickets: day show 12 Lari, evening show 16 Lari. Swimming with dolphins. Rates: 3-12 years – 60 Lari, 12-18 years – 100 Lari, adults 150 Lari.

Bottlenose Dolphin. Photo courtesy of 6 May Park

Zoro, Maya, Monica, Tsitsi, Flipper, Marco, and the little ones – Nini and Kviria hope to see you soon!

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