Swim with Sperm Whales
Dominica
Swim with wild sperm whales on the Caribbean island of Dominica—and experience firsthand one the deepest-diving mammals on the planet.
What’s Included
All Inclusive Trip
✔ 8 days/7 nights
✔ Round trip airport transfers from DOM to Portsmouth (1-1.5 hrs each way)
✔ 5 boat days (about 30-35 hrs total on-water time)
✔ Accommodation on beach front cottages (based on double occupancy)
✔ In-water “swim with” permit issued by the Dominica Ministry of Fisheries ($6,000)
✔ 3 meals daily (breakfast, boat lunch & dinner + Refreshments)
✔ On-land excursion to Trafalgar Falls
✔ Professional naturalist guide, captain and trip leader on board
✔ Underwater Videos
✔ Optional professional photography package (additional cost)
Not included
✗ Flights
✗ Insurance (mandatory)
✗ Gear (must bring your own: mask, snorkel, fins)
✗ Personal spending and gratuities (optional)
All our whale encounters in Dominica are conducted in close collaboration with Dominica Whale Whisperer, led by Andrew Armour, who has spent many years developing a deep, respectful, and intimate understanding of the local sperm whale families. His long-term presence, experience, and sensitivity in the water allow us to approach these encounters with a level of awareness and care that is essential when working with wild animals.
We operate under strict ethical and governmental regulations. Each expedition is limited to a maximum of six guests, all traveling under an official government permit that allows in-water interaction with the whales. At any given time, only three guests and one guide are permitted in the water, while the boat maintains a minimum distance of 50 meters from the whales, ensuring minimal disturbance and maximum respect for their natural behavior.
Our primary vessel in Dominica is a 36-foot boat equipped with a second-level viewing platform for spotting whales and ample space for comfort and equipment. We typically spend 6–7 hours at sea per day, depending on how far from Portsmouth the whales are encountered.
Using unidirectional hydrophones, we listen to and track whale vocalizations, allowing us to locate them while maintaining a calm, respectful approach.
Encounters usually involve only two or three boats. At all times, the whales’ well-being comes first. We adapt our movements, timing, and decisions to the animals—not the other way around—honoring their space, autonomy, and natural rhythms above all else.
Our Ethical Approach to Swimming with Sperm Whales
Trip Structure & Permit System
Due to local permit regulations, this expedition runs in back-to-back weeks, with both groups traveling from Saturday to Saturday. The government issues a single 10-day on-water permit, currently priced at USD 6,000, which must be used on consecutive days. For this reason, the trips are structured so the land exploration day falls at the beginning of the first week and at the end of the second week, allowing the permitted ocean days to be evenly distributed between the two groups (five days each).
Day 1: Saturday — Arrival
Upon arrival at Dominica’s international airport, participants are greeted and transferred to our accommodation in Portsmouth, approximately one hour from the airport. After settling in, the group comes together for introductions and a welcome dinner. The evening finishes with a trip briefing and equipment check to prepare for the days ahead.
Day 2: Sunday — Land Exploration Day
This day is dedicated to experiencing Dominica on land. We visit the iconic Trafalgar Falls, hiking through the rainforest to reach the waterfalls and natural hot springs. The contrast between cool river water and warm volcanic pools creates a powerful and immersive experience. In the afternoon, we head to Roseau to enjoy local Dominican cuisine at a traditional restaurant.
Days 3–7: Monday to Friday — Ocean Days
Daily activities depend on weather conditions, wind, sea state, and the daily permits required for whale encounters. As conditions can change, the schedule remains flexible, and the plan for each day is shared by the trip leader the evening before.
Typical day schedule:
08:00 – Breakfast and morning briefing
09:00 – Boat departure to search for whales
15:30 – Return to shore, change out of wet gear, shower, and rest
17:00 – Rest time, gentle swim, beach walk, or stretching
19:00 – Dinner
Day 8: Saturday — Departure
Airport transfers are arranged from the accommodation to Dominica’s international airport, scheduled approximately three hours before departure. This allows ample time for check-in at Dominica’s small international airport.
Available dates
Each expedition is limited to a maximum of 6 guests
2026
July 4th - 11th: 4 spots left
2027
April 3rd - 10th: 4 spots left
April 10th - 17th: 2 spots left
Price
$6300 USD
-$1000 USD deposit
-Price subject to change for 2027, depending on regulatory fees and operator modifications
Terms and Conditions
Trafalgar Falls - Land excursion
Our Trafalgar Falls excursion is much more than a waterfall visit — it is a deep immersion into Dominica’s raw and untamed nature.
Located in the heart of the lush Roseau Valley, these iconic twin waterfalls are surrounded by dense rainforest vegetation, with giant ferns, tropical trees and moss-covered rocks thriving in the island’s humid climate. The constant sound of rushing water and the vibrant life of the forest make this place feel incredibly powerful and alive.
The experience begins with a river hike, walking directly upstream as we make our way toward the falls. Along the way, we’ll encounter natural hot springs, where cool river water mixes with warm water emerging straight from the volcanic rock walls.
These sulfur-rich waters are known for their therapeutic benefits, helping to relax muscles, support circulation and nourish the skin — creating a unique and deeply restorative contrast between cold and heat.
This is an adventurous hike that takes us into one of the most wild and primal parts of the island. Here, you can truly feel Dominica’s volcanic energy, the strength of the landscape, and the life force flowing through the rainforest. It’s an invitation to connect with the island on a visceral level and experience its power in a raw, unforgettable way.
Accommodation
Welcome to Island Cottage, a charming residential retreat located in the heart of Portsmouth, nestled within the stunning Saint John Parish of Dominica. Thise delightful cottages offer a perfect getaway for your sperm whale adventure, accommodating up to six guests with ease and privacy.
Your stay at this inviting property includes essential amenities that ensure a comfortable experience. Enjoy the convenience of air conditioning to keep you cool throughout your visit, along with complimentary internet access to stay connected. The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for preparing meals, while the cozy living area comes complete with a TV for your entertainment needs.
You will enjoy your own room and sahre a bathroom with another feellow traveler. we have a cottage for couples as well with a queen bed, very spacious. there is a apsacious living area, big fridge.. eveyrhting oyu need.
About the trip
-
6 people : Small groups ensure a more intimate experience and respectful marine encounters.
-
18 years old
Basic snorkling experience
Insurance (mandatory, to get yours, visit dan.org or World Nomads)
Each participant will be required to provide Passport copy and sign a liability waiver before the expedition.
-
Breakfast, box lunch and dinners included.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available and must be communicated to me before the trip. -
Freediving/Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, fins.
Water shoes: Closed-toe water shoes with good grip (suitable for river hiking). These will be essential for our waterfall hike on our on-land excursion
Proof of insurance
Sun Protection: Hat, buff, polarized sunglasses, dry bag, beach towel or poncho, sandals or shoes that can get wet
Any special foods or medications (seasickness tablets, waterproof bandaids for fin sores, electrolytes if needed)
-
Please Note: Although there is very high possibility we encounter all of these animals, we can't guarantee it 100%. Same with conditions.
Good water skills, comfort in the open ocean, and the ability to get in and out of the boat quickly are very useful.
Currency: in Dominica, you can pay in USD or Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD)
-
You can fly into Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) in Dominica via several international hubs, including San Juan (SJU), Miami (MIA), Antigua (ANU), and Barbados (BGI). These routes offer regular connecting flights into the island.
Another option is to fly into Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP) in Guadeloupe or Antigua (ANU) and connect onward to Dominica by a short regional flight or ferry. Please note that ferry schedules are limited and should be planned in advance.
Did you know…?
Sperm whales are the deepest-diving mammals on Earth, capable of reaching depths of over 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) in search of squid.
They have the largest brain of any animal to ever live, weighing up to 9 kg (20 lb)—more than five times larger than a human brain.
Sperm whales produce the loudest sounds in the animal kingdom, using powerful clicks for echolocation to navigate and hunt in complete darkness.
These whales can hold their breath for up to 90 minutes, allowing them to hunt deep in the ocean where light never reaches.
Sperm whales are highly social animals, living in stable family units led by females, while adult males roam long distances between colder and tropical waters.
FAQs
-
In addition to sperm whales, other marine species commonly encountered during our tours include:
Short-finned pilot whalesLong-finned pilot whales
False killer whales
Pygmy orcas
Pantropical spotted dolphins
Fraser’s dolphins (often called “pink-bellied” dolphins)
Bottlenose dolphins
While there’s a very high chance of seeing these creatures, encounters aren’t 100% guaranteed as we operate in the open waters of the Caribbean Sea, where nature is always unpredictable. Sometimes, even small changes in water temperature can attract unexpected species. Who knows what surprises 2026 has in store? Let’s find out together!
-
Swimming with sperm whales is a rare and powerful experience that requires awareness, patience, and deep respect. These encounters take place in the animals’ natural environment, and our priority is always the safety and well-being of both participants and whales. Before entering the water, you will receive clear guidelines from the trip leader and crew, which must be followed at all times.
Sperm whales are large, deep-diving animals with complex social behaviors. When whales are resting or preparing to rest between deep dives, their need for recovery is fully prioritized. We carefully observe their behavior at all times and adjust our actions accordingly. If whales show signs of needing space, we will limit or pause water time, and in some cases cancel a session entirely.
Respecting distance, moving calmly, and allowing the whales to control the interaction is essential. We also reserve the right to suspend or end a session if we observe disruptive behavior from participants or other operators in the area. While encounters with wild animals are never fully predictable, strict adherence to these protocols helps minimize impact and ensures experiences remain ethical, responsible, and truly unforgettable.
-
Around 6-7 hours per day, depending on conditions and encounters.
-
A freediving certification is not required, but participants must be able to feel comfortable in the open ocean, and be capable of jumping in and out of the boat (a ladder is available for ease).
-
In July, water temperatures in Dominica are typically around 28–29°C (82–84°F), making conditions very comfortable for swimming with sperm whales. A wetsuit is not necessary. Most people swim comfortably in a swimsuit; however, a rashguard or lightweight leggings can be useful for sun protection during longer sessions in the water.
-
Just a mask, snorkel and fins.