Whether you’re swimming with blue whales off the coast of Sri Lanka or circumnavigating Spitsbergen in search of walruses, expert-led marine holidays provide the best ways to experience mesmerising aquatic wildlife up close. 

From its kaleidoscopic reef-ringed shallows to its ice-crusted depths, the vast expanse of the marine world evokes the heady spirit of exploration. 

Of course, one of the best way to access the wonders of the water world is by boat – especially if you’re heading into the icy realms of the north. You could set sail aboard the expedition ship the M/V Kinfish on the lookout for polar bears in Svalbard. This same intoxicating rhythm of sailing between stunning locations and then encountering the creatures of the water margin is also evident in the Galapagos. By night you’ll live in resplendent comfort and by day you’ll encounter another unique species of wildlife on its very own island paradise or take to the water to blow bubbles with sea lions.

Alternatively, you could be camping near the edge of the ice along the Northwest Passage as you wait for narwhals to surface on their Arctic migration, slipping into the water to swim with these near-mythical creatures or discover where to swim with whale sharks. 

If you love getting in the water and long for an immersive marine experience with some of the world’s most unique and striking wildlife, why not choose one of our “swimming with…” safaris for intimate encounters with humpbacks, orcas, or sperm whales? These extraordinary journeys allow you to dive in with some of the biggest whales and even be photographed alongside them by one of our expert marine team.

While swimming with these creatures is an obvious highlight, you will also learn about the conservation efforts that go into protecting these wonderful species. Each of the trips is run by Patrick with an experienced team consisting of marine experts, researchers, deck hands and skippers. The team use hydrophone technology to track the whales' whereabouts in order to put you in the right place at the right time to get in the water alongside the whales and enjoy the very best marine experience. 

Here are some of our favourite marine blogs. Whether client blogs, advice articles or staff trip reports there is always something to offer inspiration and information for your next marine journey.

• Swimming with Blue Whales: A Dream Come True
• Madagascar Emerges as New Whale Shark Hotspot
• Community Work in Dominica with NWS Guide Patrick Dykstra
• Having a Whale of a Time in Norway
• Incredible Trip Swimming with Killer Whales and Humpbacks
• Searching for Sperm Whales in Dominica