| Humpback Whales of the Silver Bank
February/March 2013
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Trip Overview
Travel with us in 2013 to the Silver Bank in the Dominican for what promises to be one of the most profound and exciting experiences you will have in the water—snorkeling with humpback whales.
Humpbacks can attain a length of 45 feet and a weight of over 50 tons. Realistically, they are the largest animals most snorkelers (or anyone!) could ever witness first-hand. Midway between the Dominican Republic and the Turks and Caicos, the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals encompasses the heavily-traveled deep water whale migration routes and the shallower calving and breeding grounds including the Silver Bank. Surrounded by ocean waters thousands of feet deep, the irregularly-shaped 10 x 20 mile Silver Bank rises to a submerged limestone plateau (or bank) with an average depth of 100 feet.
For this adventure we have booked space aboard the 138-foot M/V Sundancer II, an ideal vessel for whale watching, both above and below the water’s surface. The ship is one of three vessels that has been granted a Sanctuary permit and has an experienced and knowledgeable captain and professional crew of eight. With 4 decks (three of which are for passengers) it is spacious, comfortable and well-appointed. Interior areas are air-conditioned and well-lit by picture windows that allow for whale watching even while indoors.
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Upon arrival at the Silver Bank, we will anchor and spend the next 6 days in the company of humpback whales both above and below the surface. We will venture out in the mornings and afternoons in 25-foot tenders designed to maximize our whale viewing in the company of experienced guides. We will have the opportunity to swim with the whales using mask, snorkel and fins, in what is referred to as a Soft-In-Water Encounter. This approach involves entering the water peacefully and floating in groups, minimizing any disturbance to the whales and maximizing the chance that their natural curiosity will draw them closer to us. This technique allows the whales to set the distance, mood and duration of the encounter.
Underwater we will see the the humpback use its long pectoral fins to precisely control their every move in a graceful underwater dance. We may be able to observe courtship dances or look into the eye of an inquisitive young calf. If we are fortunate, we will encounter a singing male whose sophisticated and haunting song will be audible for miles. Topside, we expect to be treated to a full array of thrilling individual and group surface behaviors including breaching, pectoral fin slapping, spyhopping, peduncal throws and lobtailing.
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Skill Level
It's important to enunciate the skill level appropriate to this
trip and review potential water conditions. In contrast to many
other Sea for Yourself programs, this one is best enjoyed by snorkelers
who are already comfortable and competent in the water.Interactions with whales will be
dictated by their location (and demeanor), and guidelines established
by the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic. We've done everything possible to
maximize our chances of finding co-operative whales - our operator
is the best in the business, and this is the perfect time of year.
However, whether or not we swim with the whales is really up to them, not us, and cannot be guaranteed.
You should also remember
that typically, whales are found in relatively deep water. Chances
are you will not see any bottom in areas hosting whales. This is termed "blue-water snorkeling" and can be disconcerting for novice snorkelers. Depending
on your swimming ability, you may find a floatation vest helpful.
In all cases, for your safety and enjoyment, we encourage you to acknowledge and stay within your own personal limitations. Our trip leaders will gladly provide any needed snorkeling instruction.
Trip Limit
Due to the very limited space available for the Humpback Whales of the Silver Bank program, reservations will be confirmed in the order deposits are received.
Weather
The average daily temperature is 78°F. The Dominican Republic's climate is mild, subtropical, with cooling Caribbean breezes. The so-called "cool" or winter season, runs from November to April. The humidity is relatively low during these months and it tends to cool down in the evenings much more than in the summer months. We have chosen a time that should give us suitable weather conditions, but, please note, as with any tropical destinatiion, that there will always be a chance of rain.
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Note About Snorkeling
Water temperature during this period ranges between 76-82°F. Thermal tolerance obviously varies with each individual. As a guideline, many people wear a 2-3 millimeter wetsuit when in the water longer than 30 or 40 minutes. Please remember that some kind of covering (such as a Lycra suit or even pajamas!) when in the water is highly recommednded as protection from sun, occasional stinging zooplankton, or to prevent abrasions. On this program, we recommend that you seriously consider wearing a wetsuit.
Financial Information
Tour fee is based on land package. The land cost of the Humpback Whales of the Silver Bank program is $TBA per person, based on double occupancy. For those requesting a single room an additional supplement of $TBA will be added to the tour cost. Please be advised that single space not guaranteed and is very limited.
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