Snorkel with Humpback whales in a protected reserve
Available only January to April
1 of only 3 places in the world for snorkeling with Humpbacks
The Silver Bank Marine Sanctuary is visited by thousands of Humpback whales every winter. This special and unforgettable Turks and Caicos Aggressor II liveaboard trip will take you snorkeling for some up close and personal encounters with these majestic and gentle giants, in one of the only places world wide that allows in-water whale watching.
Next available trip departs on April 4th, 2020, then January 2021.
In the midst of the Caribbean, between the Dominican Republic and the islands of Turks and Caicos, a marine park, also known as the Sanctuary for Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic experiences one of the largest congregation of Humpback whales in the world. The North Atlantic whale population uses these grounds for mating, breeding, calving and rearing. Whale watchers and snorkelers can observe the unique courting behavior, hear the enchanting songs and enjoy meeting the curious calves during the Humpback season, from January until March.
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II operates whale watching and soft in water encounters from 2 inflatable skiffs, which gives the possibility of close and safe interactions. The tenders operate 2 daily tours from the mother-ship to see and swim with the whales, for the best photo ops over and under the water. SCUBA diving is not allowed.
Your itinerary starts with a 4pm check-in at the yacht, docking at the Ocean World Marina in Cofresi Beach, Dominican Republic. The closest airport is Puerto Plata (POP), about 30 minutes away. Transfers can be arranged upon prior request. Departure is scheduled for 9:30pm. You will arrive at Silver Bank on Sunday morning, between 8:30-10:30am depending on the weather. After briefings and lunch the first tender runs start at 2pm. From Monday to Thursday afternoon you'll enjoy whale watching and snorkeling, cocktail sunset parties, presentations and other fun and fascinating activities on-board the liveaboard vessel. The ship will start the return journey on Thursday after 2 tender runs and is scheduled to arrive back at the Ocean World Marina on Friday afternoon. Dinner on Friday night is at a local restaurant. Check-out is between 7-8am Saturday morning.
Included
Rooms
Meals and snacks
Beverages (water, juice, soft drinks, tea, coffee, local wine and beer)
Not Included
Tourism tax ($20 USD per person. Collected at port of entry in cash)
Sanctuary Access and port fees ($350 USD. Collected on-board in cash only)
Friday night dinner
Gratuities
Snorkeling rental gear
photography rental gear
Ship boutique purchases
End of trip DVD
Professional photography permit
Important info
When you land at Puerto Plata international airport (POP), you'll need to complete a customs form and an immigration form, as well as pay a $20 USD government tourism fee. Payment must be made in cash. All prices are subject to change by the Dominican Republic government.
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II departs from Ocean World Marina, Cofresi, Dominican Republic on Saturday. The marina is located about 30 minutes from airport. Check in begins at 4pm and the ship is scheduled to depart at 9:30pm on Saturday night. Taxis are available at the airport or, transport can be arranged on prior request.
Ship's return to port is scheduled for Friday, late afternoon. Dinner is at a local restaurant on shore (this is the only meal not included in the charter price). Check out is at 8am on Saturday morning. Transfers to airport are complimentary.
A Guest Information form, filled prior to boarding, is required for all guests.
Travel, medical and luggage insurance is highly recommended.
Sea-sickness/motion-sickness remedies are also recommended.
The Turks and Caicos Aggressor II accepts cash, MasterCard and Visa. No personal checks or travelers checks.
USA style 110V power outlets are available on-board.
The use of drones is not permitted in Silver Bank marine park.
Cancellations Policy
For any cancellations made: 121 days prior to departure, 20% of full price is forfeited; 120-91 days prior to departure, 40% of full price is forfeited; Cancellations made 90 days or less prior to departure are non refundable.