Humpback Whale Watching Tour

Each year the Dominican Republic becomes the showcase for one of natures most incredible and natural phenomenons as literally hundreds of Humpback Whales make their way from the North Atlantic to the Bay of Samana to breed and give birth to their young. This truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see these amazing mammals in their natural environment. Officially Whale Watching Season is open from January 15th to March 15th and in recent years the number of spectators allowed has become more restricted for conservation purposes and out of respect and consideration to these graceful creatures as they breed and calf.

It's an early start from Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada, Sosua and Cabarete (approx 05.30hrs) in order to allow plenty of time to get to the marina in time for your departure from Samana Bay. Worry not, you can always sleep on the bus or watch the Dominican Republic slowly come to life during the early hours of the morning. Most hotels provide a breakfast pack or serve early breakfasts for those going out on tours, however there is a scheduled breakfast stop with breakfast included en route.

This is a great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs but you'll find it quite tricky getting perfect shots and so video is often better. As you head out from the marina and into the open waters of Samana Bay, the first thing you'll be looking for are signs of spouting, flooking (showing of tails) and breaching in the distance. Your English speaking host and boat tour guide will have an encyclopedic knowledge of Humpack Whales and will inform you of all of their habits, feeding, breeding and playful things the Humpbacks get up to. You will discover first hand everything you need to know, and anything you don't know and would like to know, please feel free to ask. As soon as a whale is spotted your boat will make it's way cautiously and respectfully over to where they are located where you will enjoy an impressive view of these wonderful creatures in the wild, and you'll even hear the eerie but soothing sound of the male Humpbacks singing their solitary songs which is believed to help attract a mate. Simply amazing.

After all that excitement, it's time to relax and chill out, so get ready for a visit to the famous Bacardi Island, as used in those famous commercials of the same name many years ago. This is a little slice of paradise and not too far away from where you will be taken for lunch. Beautiful powder white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and time for a dip in turquoise tropical waters makes for a perfect way to end the day before returning home after one of the most memorable excursions of your life.

Included in your Humpback Whale Watching Tour:

• Collection from and back to your hotel/accommodation
• Soft drinks aboard the whale watching boat
• An English Speaking & knowledgable guide
• The astounding sight of watching Humpback Whales in their natural habitat
• Amazing photo opportunities
• Learn about Humpback Whale conservation, preservation and lots of interesting facts
• Lunch on Bacardi Island
• Chance to chill out, relax, swim and sunbathe

Excursion Tips

• Take and use plenty of sun tan lotion. A hat is recommended on particularly sunny days
• Bring your swim wear and towels for Bacardi Island
• If it is raining, this excursion will still go ahead as the whales don't mind the weather, however the ocean may be choppy so you might want to take a sea sick tablet before you board the boat. Products such as Dramamine and Stugeron are available at nearby pharmacies. Always be sure to check with your doctor prior to taking these medicines.
• Bring your camera / video camera (+ film if not digital). Please ensure that your batteries are charged
• Bring some money along with you for drinks and snacks as they are not included
• Take a big gulp, this is a "goosebump" of a day and well worth the early start to see these spectacular Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic!