
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.
From 9500 per personWith tranquil clear waters and some of the best snorkelling in the windward islands, Dominica is the hidden diamond of the eastern Caribbean. A volcanic island under a coating of verdant green forest, alive with exotic birds and bizaree insects, Dominica is still wild and remote with untamed forests complimented by white-sand beaches and a host of incredible activities. It is also one of the only places in the world where you can swim besides some of the ocean’s giants including the majestic sperm whale, with highly-sought-after permits and dedicated guides. Natural World Safaris is one of the few travel operators with access to arrange these incredible experiences.
Spared mass tourism due to it having only a few white sand beaches, the island of Dominica also scarcely has any big resorts or flashy hotels. Pristine and relatively untouched, Dominica is the jewel of the Caribbean crown, becoming the towering arc of the Carribean archipelago, with its highest peak at nearly 1,500 metres tall. Today, Dominica is a republic in the British Commonwealth, gaining independence from the UK in 1978. Whilst the island retains cultural history from British and French colonialism, territory is reserved for its much older Carib inhabitants. Preservation of natural order and heritage extends far across Dominica’s ethos, because of this it is fondly referred to as the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’. From the champagne reefs to hidden waterfalls, this enchanting island of forested volcanic peaks is an authentic slice of Caribbean paradise.
Since 2017 NWS has been sending clients to Dominica to experience swimming with some of the most relaxed marine mammals in the world. Our sperm whale safaris offer you the chance to swim with, and be photographed alongside, these gentle giants as they congregate in the warm Dominican waters, and spend time in a tropical Caribbean paradise. Travelling to the idyllic island with one of our specialist guides and photographers – Patrick Dykstra, Joshua Barton or Rita Messing – has made for an unforgettable wildlife experience each year since release.
We create small group journeys which are led personally by our selected property’s owners or their own hand-picked guides. With group sizes reaching up to just four guests at a time, this ensures quality time with the whales and guides whilst allowing the whales to remain undisturbed. Meet other like-minded travelers over a shared dinner for an even richer experience whilst you experience not just Dominica as a tourist destination, but benefit from a deep immersion into nature and the local culture for some spectacular gems. By taking part in this once-in-a-lifetime expedition, you’ll not only have the chance to become one of the few people privileged enough to swim with sperm whales, but you’ll also contribute towards marine conservation. A portion of funds from each trip are donated to the Dominican people, whose island was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017. Our Specialist Leader Patrick Dykstra is keenly involved with community work in Dominica, bringing schoolchildren out on boats to experience their country’s stunning marine life for themselves. We are proud that our safaris help Patrick to achieve this admirable goal.
Typically, expect to budget around $9500 per person for a 7-day safari in Dominica. This will generally include food and beverages, excursions and whale permits to swim beside sperm whales with our renowned marine guides.
A unique opportunity to swim with some of the most relaxed marine mammals in the world as they traverse the coastline of rugged Dominica.
From 9500 per personJust out of reach of mainstream tourism, Dominica is an up-and-coming safari destination that is becoming a fast favourite of travellers. Although there are no international flights direct to this pristine island, large crowds of holiday-makers are often deterred from this sun-soaked paradise, making Dominica a calm and quiet soul. Dominicans are delightful people and tourists are happily welcomed, often encouraging guests to join in with rural heritages and their magical mix of African, European, Creole and indigenous Kalinago cultures.The best way to explore the rain and cloud forests, volcanic craters and steamy slopes is by foot. Be prepared for incredible hiking routes, including the only long-distance walking trail in the Caribbean allowing for incredible vistas of unspoiled nature.
Dominica offers a wide array of places to stay as varied and as plentiful as its terrain. Choose from spots that specifically cater to hiking and diving enthusiasts, ecotourism, or those seeking relaxation and restoration, or simply choose from a variety of high-end, intimate boutique villas, resorts, modest hotels, or even quaint guest houses - each with their own charm and amenities.
The best time to go to Dominica is between December and May. Dominica’s position in the middle of the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles island chain gives it a year-round tropical climate, ranging from about 26 – 32°C on average. Rainfall here can be heavy and sustained, with the rainy season lasting from June to November during which precipitation increases month on month. Our expert-led safaris depart in February, April and August.During this time it is common to witness species of sea turtle nesting on the southeast and northeast beaches.
I was astounded by Patrick Dykstra’s generosity with his time and knowledge…and even photographs! We were extremely lucky to have encountered unique experiences that do not happen often: a male visiting the female pods, the female pods hanging around on the surface and socializing, several calves that were super curious, a sighting of some very rare Couvier whales. In addition, the folks that Patrick surrounds himself with (the captain of the boat, the mates) are just super. We had some horrible weather the first few days which worked to our advantage because other boats did not go out and we had the whales all to ourselves. Anyway, I am now convinced that I will never book a wildlife trip again unless through Natural World Safari’s. I am really that impressed.
Gemma, Becca, and Chloe were outstanding. We were thoroughly prepared and ready to go for this spectacular trip. Gemma was just a joy to be around since she joined us on this trip. Overall, it was a great trip, we got to swim with the sperm whales and even short-fin pilot whales. I have travelled extensively throughout the world for wildlife/nature adventures over the past two decades and browsing through NWS' catalog and website, you just offer unique opportunities not found anywhere else.
Gemma was wonderful every step of the process. She responded immediately, organized, informative and was a pleasure corresponding with her. The whole team was amazing! Patrick, Kai, and the Dominica boat crew did such a wonderful job. Thank you to everyone! Wished we could have had more encounters with the sperm whales however I totally understand it’s not something one can control. We did see them above water but the males were shy. Overall I would recommend the experience to friends and family as it was a once in a lifetime experience. I have no complaints. The above is just feedback. Thank you to all involved in the process and the staff in Dominica who were exceptional!
This trip was incredible! The whole process of booking was easy, and all my questions were promptly answered. Our destination specialist Gemma even joined us on the trip which made the experience even better!
The NWS team were very flexible with our trip which was much appreciated. We would love to travel again as the destinations offered and the experiences received are unique and unusual.
Patrick was awesome, a stunning expert, he knew everything with high respect for nature and animals. His good sense of humour was well-received as he paid equal attention to each of us.