club, will launch school tours in the new year.

Supervisor of Animal Behaviour Michelle Hammond yesterday explained that the tours, which will begin in the Spring, will give Bermudian children the rare opportunity to see the dolphins while learning how they play an important role in ocean conservation.

Dolphin Quest officially started its winter programmes last week.

Ms Hammond said the activities will be provided for Southampton Princess guests as well as for the general public.

She added that visitors will have the opportunity to participate in one or more of the four half-hour programmes.

Behind the Scenes Tours allows visitors, aged five and over, to visit with trainers and learn about the dolphins while observing their training and play sessions.

Dolphin Discovery is a "special interactive encounter'' programme specifically designed for children between the ages of five and 16, which includes dolphin games and hands-on contact with the dolphins.

Reservations must be made for both programmes.

Dolphin Encounter is designed for the adult visitor. Those 17 and over will be able to get hands-on experience in training, education and dolphin games.

Dolphin Doubles is a programme for couples where they see how dolphins love to play and learn. Participants for both programmes are selected by a daily lottery.

Ms Hammond said the lottery was created to deal with the overwhelming demand.

The lottery cards must be filled out in person and turned in at the Dolphin Quest Beach Shop located under the Whaler Inn at the Southampton Princess.