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What is the purpose of this program/overview of the dive? (top)

The program is an exploration of the Ocean Voyager exhibit and introduction to the Georgia Aquarium conservation and whale shark research program. Swim with Gentle Giants is the only opportunity in the world where you are guaranteed to swim or SCUBA dive with the largest fish in the world, the whale shark. A portion of the proceeds from this program support the Aquarium’s 4R conservation program. For more information about the Georgia Aquarium’s 4R program, please visit the Web site at www.georgiaaquarium.org.

What is included in the experience? (top)

The program lasts approximately 2.5 hours and includes a 30-minute swim or SCUBA dive in the Ocean Voyager exhibit. Participants will also view some behind-the-scenes areas of the Georgia Aquarium.

How big is the Ocean Voyager exhibit, and what will I see? (top)

The exhibit contains 6.3 million gallons of water and ranges in depth from 20 to 30 feet deep. This exhibit houses thousands of fish including whale sharks, zebra sharks, sawfish, leopard whiprays, bowmouth guitarfish, humphead wrasses and schools of tarpon, pompano and cownose rays. That’s just to name a few.

What is the difference between SCUBA and swim? (top)

SCUBA diving is the act of swimming underwater while using self-contained underwater breathing apparatus. There are several large diving organizations that train and certify divers and dive instructors. The Aquarium’s swim program will allow individuals to swim at the surface with an air supply, and this does not require any certification.

Do I have to be SCUBA certified? (top)

Yes, if you would like to SCUBA dive. Proof of SCUBA certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization must be provided, along with photo identification. There is no certification necessary to participate in the swim program.

What should I bring with me? (top)

All you will need to bring is your swimsuit. If diving, you will have to provide proof of SCUBA certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization, along with photo identification. Georgia Aquarium will supply all equipment (mask, fins, tank, buoyancy device, regulator, weights, wetsuit and booties) and towels. Please do not bring your own equipment or camera of any kind. Personal masks are permitted, but will be required to be disinfected. Comfortable changing rooms with showers and lockers are provided.

What is the cost of the program? (top)

For the swim program, the cost is $190 for non-members and 10% off for Annual Pass members. For the SCUBA dive program, the cost is $290 for non-members and 10% off for Annual Pass members. Program price includes admission to the Aquarium, all equipment, the swim or dive, certificate of participation, dive log book, t-shirt and souvenir photo. DVD will be available for purchase. Equipment provided: mask, fins, tank, buoyancy device, regulator, weights, booties and wetsuit. Personal masks are permitted, but will be required to be disinfected.

Can I pre-register? Do I have to pre-register? (top)

We encourage guest to pre-register as there are a limited number of spaces per dive.

What are the age requirements? (top)

All participants must be age 12 and older. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult. The SCUBA option is open to all certified divers. Proof of SCUBA certification from a nationally or internationally recognized organization must be provided, along with photo identification.

Can I participate if I have a disability? (top)

We will work with participants to accommodate mobility, hearing, visual and cognitive disabilities to the maximum extent feasible.

Are guests welcome to watch? Do they have to buy a ticket? (top)

Yes, friends and family can watch you from the tunnel in the Ocean Voyager exhibit and from the Ocean Voyager Theater. They must purchase general admission tickets.

How do I get to the Aquarium? (top)

The Aquarium is located downtown right next to the new World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park. Click here for directions.

Where do I go when I arrive? (top)

Please go to the Information Desk to check in 30 minutes prior to your experience, located in the Atrium next to the Georgia Explorer gallery lighthouse.

Will there be a guide in the water with me? (top)

There will be one Dive Master for every two divers/swimmers in the water with you at all times (maximum six divers/swimmers per experience). Dive team members are CPR, first aid and emergency oxygen trained. Both the dive and swim programs are a guided tour; they are not a free swim.

How do I make a reservation? (top)

You can make a reservation by clicking here or calling 404-581-4000.

What is your rescheduling policy? (top)

The Georgia Aquarium does not offer refunds, but will reschedule your dive. All reservations and cancellations are processed by phone or in person. Program no-shows will not be refunded nor rescheduled. Like all diving environments, the schedule is subject to change, based on health of the animals and your safety.

What’s the water temperature? (top)

The water temperature is 75 or 78 degrees F.

Can we feed the animals? (top)

No.

Can I buy out a time slot to swim alone? (top)     
     Yes.

Can I bring my own equipment and wet suit? (top)     
     All necessary equipment and a wetsuit will be provided. You can bring your personal mask.

Can I bring a photographer or person with me to film underwater? (top) 
     No. A souvenir photo will be provided to you and a DVD containing underwater footage will be
     available for purchase. Photos and video taken during the dive are the property of Georgia
     Aquarium. We reserve the right to use any photos and video for promotional purposes.
     Photos and video may only be taken by Georgia Aquarium designates.

Will tickets be available for walk-up guests? (top)     
     Yes. Walk-up tickets can be purchased if available, but must be purchased at least 2 hours
     before the schedule Swim with Gentle Giants program.

Can we touch the animals? (top) 
     No.

Will I be swimming alone?(top)     
     No. Each experience can accommodate up to six participants, and you will have Dive  
     Masters in the water with you at all times. 

Are there set times available for Swim with Gentle Giants, or do I pick my own time?(top) 
     Currently, the dive program is offered at 3 p.m. daily, and the swim program is offered at
     4:30 p.m.

How early can I come to the Aquarium?   (top)
     You can arrive at the Aquarium any time during regular business hours. We recommend that
     you visit the Aquarium prior to your swim or dive experience. Please remember that you
     must check into the Information Desk by the lighthouse at least 30 minutes prior to your
     appointment.  

If the participant is under the age of 18, does their adult guardian have to participate in the swim or dive with them?   (top)
     Yes.

Can I purchase a swim/dive program for a friend? I do not have their information. Can they provide their information on the day of their program since this is a gift?   (top)
     You may purchase a gift for a friend. However, we must have the swimmer's/diver's
     information at least one week prior to their swim/dive so that all the necessary equipment
     can be prepared for their experience.

Will I receive a phone call or information packet prior to my program date?   (top)
     All of the necessary information will be provided to you prior to your experience. A reminder
     email will be sent to you at least one week prior to your experience.

Can a group sign up for the program?  (top)
     Yes. Groups of five or more should contact the Call Center at 404-581-4000.

Reserve your space to swim or dive today!
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