The pool is very small - perhaps research the dolphins at Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Dolphinaris

for info on the alacartes try the Top Questions over in the Akumal forum

I don't consider myself a bleeding heart and can tell you that quite a few guests of the GPB enjoyed there Dolphin experience.

This is a great resort. I have been there 4 times in the last 2 years and going back December 9-22nd. It wasn't until my third trip that I realized that there were dolphins at the resort. It is not a main attraction. The living conditions for the dolphins is a little small, however if you daughter has been at a zoo or an aquarium then its much the same. When you are planning the trip ask the travel agent to request to be away from the dolphin pool. They are understanding that some people are not in favor of this practice. The Gran Bahia Principe consists of 3 resorts in one. You can travel between the 3 resorts which are Tulum, Coba and Akumal. I have always stayed at Tulum but went to the other resorts to enjoy a little variety in the meals, pools, entertainment, etc. It is a great place to go to relax, get pampered, eat and dance and have a few drinks and also enjoy the evening entertainment.