A pod of bottle-nosed dolphins is involved in a unique dolphin/human familiarization program at Dolphin Experience, located at Underwater Explorers Society (UNEXSO), next to Port Lucaya, opposite Lucayan Beach Casino (tel. 888/365-3483 or 242/373-1250). This "close encounter" program viewed as "politically incorrect" by some groups allows participants to observe these intelligent and friendly animals close up and to hear an interesting talk by a member of the animal-care staff. This project seems very eco-sensitive; this is the world's largest dolphin facility, so there are no cramped conditions. Dolphins can swim out to sea, and if they don't like the project, they could in theory never return to it. But they seem to enjoy interacting with humans and do return. You can step onto a shallow wading platform and interact with the dolphins; the experience costs $59 and is a highly educational, yet fun adventure for all ages. Children under 5 participate free. You'll want to bring your camera. An "Assistant Trainer" program is an all-day interactive experience in which a maximum of four people, ages 16 or older, learn about dolphins and marine mammals from behind the scenes. Participants help feed the animals and swim with them for a cost of $219. Dolphins also swim out from Sanctuary Bay daily to interact with scuba divers from UNEXSO in a "Dolphin Dive" program, costing $169.