Small Group Safari

Swimming with Sperm Whales in Dominica

A unique opportunity to swim with some of the most relaxed marine mammals in the world as they traverse the coastline of rugged Dominica. Guided by a BBC photographer you have the opportunity for some truly once in a lifetime encounters.

Duration 7 days
Price From $8,470
When Feb
Destination Dominica
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A 7 day experience venturing in to the warm Dominican waters to swim with sperm whales - from $8,470 per person sharing excluding international flights.

Safari Overview

Travel to the idyllic island of Dominica with NWS specialist guide and world-renowned photographer and videographer, Patrick Dykstra for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Spend seven days on and around Dominica swimming with sperm whales. During your time off, discover the local food and culture or just relax in the Caribbean surroundings.

What makes this trip extraordinary

  • Be one of few people to swim with sperm whales 
  • Guided by marine specialist and photographer Patrick Dykstra 
  • Assist in marine conservation funding

Diving with these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and having photographs of yourself alongside them is the perfect souvenir.

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Day by day

Day 1

Arrive Dominica

Today you arrive in to Dominica and will be met by your guide and taken to your accommodation where you can settle in and prepare yourself for the adventures of the coming days. Depending on what time you arrive you may have chance to relax on the beach before dinner.

Days 2-6

Swimming with sperm whales

For the next few days your skipper and guide will analyse the weather and movements of the sperm whales to get you in the right place at the right time to see these magnificent creatures and if the conditions allow it, swim with them too. These gentle giants reach over 20 metres in length but despite their size, pose no threat to humans. Combine your time photographing these whales, swimming with them and observing them from the boat but don’t forget to take a moment just comprehending the incredible experience you are witnessing! In your spare time you can choose to relax around the hotel, visiting hot springs or dine of the local culinary delights.

Day 7

Depart

It’s now time to say goodbye to your guide, Patrick, as you bid farewell to the island of Dominica and to the families of sperm whales you have come to know and love over the past week. Relax on your flight home as you’ll have hours of work trawling through your photographs when you get home!

Trip Details

Hurricane Maria Update

Hurricane Maria made landfall in Dominica on September 18th 2017, causing widespread damage across the island. Despite this, commercial flights operating to and from Douglas-Charles airport were able to resume very quickly, and the road to the capital has since been reopened. The ships we use to sail around Dominica were undamaged and we are pleased to report that the 2018 trips went ahead as planned, while those in 2019 are expected to do so as well. Read our article Braving the Storm in Dominica for more information.

Trip Dates & Prices

This safari is run on a small group basis with a maximum of four guests at any one time. This ensures quality time is spent with the whales and that everyone has the opportunity to learn from Patrick’s expertise. 

 2019 Departures Price
 Feb 9-15 From £6,050 per person. Sold out - join the wait list here.
 Feb 14-20 From £6,050 per person. Sold out - join the wait list here.
 Feb 19-25 From £6,050 per person. Sold out - join the wait list here.
 Feb 24-Mar 2 From £6,050 per person. Sold out - join the wait list here.

Reviews from Past Safaris

  • I had the best time! Everything was well organised and I can't complain about anything... Patrick, the guys who were helping him, everything was great... We saw whales every day, and all I can say is THANK YOU!

    Swimming with Sperm Whales in Dominica

    5 out of 5

  • You handled my petty concerns with grace and professionalism, and delivered on the trip, big time. Under difficult conditions after Hurricane Maria, it was all it was expected to be. The guide was downright amazing and focused on delivering the purpose of the trip. If at any time a spot opens up on next year's Sri Lanka tour, please, please put me in it!

    Swimming with Sperm Whales in Dominica

    5 out of 5
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Your Next Steps

Talk to one of our specialists for further details on our sperm whale safaris in Dominica.
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