Dominica Sperm Whales
Exploring the unfathomable lives of sperm whale families in Dominica
April 29th - May 5th, 2025 (Sold Out)
May 4th - 10th, 2025
Learn more about our Dominica experiences
We are lucky to witness the unfathomable
Sperm whales have lives that are completely alien to us.
They spend the majority of their day in the deep ocean, diving in the dark and cold depths in search of squid.
Yet, how they spend time with their families is instantly recognizable to us. Female sperm whales live in close knit family pods for their entire lives. They communicate constantly, help babysit each other’s children, and socialize through touch.
Seeing a family pod of sperm whales interacting with each other is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences you can have.
An intimate look at Sperm Whale families and culture
This trip is designed to give us an opportunity to observe sperm whales in their natural habitat through interactions that are as minimally invasive as possible — from our timing in the season to the boat captain we work with, every decision was made with thoughtfulness in mind.
We will also have opportunities to go deeper and learn more about context we are in — from land excursions on the island to see Syndicate Falls and the Indian River, to talks on sperm whale cultures and social dynamics.
This is a trip for people who want to have a chance to see sperm whales in one of the most beautiful settings in the world, while learning more about what makes them so incredible.
Experiences
5 days of searching for sperm whales on the water
Excursions to Syndicate Falls, the Indian River, and the Calibishie Red Rocks
Sunset dinners at local restaurants
Whale talks about sperm whale lifestyles, social structures, and culture
Itinerary
This trip is designed to maximize our experience on the incredible island of Dominica, both in and out of the water.
We will have 5 days on the water searching for sperm whales. There will be land excursions to sights around the island, such as Syndicate Falls and the Indian River.
We will also have talks during our week focused on the unique lifestyles, social structures, and cultures of sperm whales.
Dates:
April 29th - May 5th, 2025 (Sold Out)
May 4th - May 10th, 2025
Pricing: $5,500 twin sharing, single room supplement available.
Group Size: 6 guests maximum
Included: All scheduled water and land activities, optional whale talks, accommodation, breakfast & lunch
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Fly into Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) in Dominica, where you will be picked up and taken to our hotel in Portsmouth. The drive will take about an hour.
After you settle in, we will have a trip briefing covering what to expect on our trip, how we will manage interactions with the whales, and our schedule for the week.
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We will 5 days on the water searching for sperm whales.
Our daily schedule will be approximately:
7am Breakfast at our hotel
7:30am Drive to the dock to meet our boat
8am - 2pm Search for pods of sperm whales. We will have lunch on the boat.
2:30pm Return to our hotel and relax or do optional afternoon activities and whale talks.
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During our week we will have a number of optional afternoon activities to give us a broader experience in Dominica:
Visiting Syndicate Falls, a secluded waterfall situated in a spectacular rainforest setting
Going down the Indian River in a canoe with an expert guide on the area’s wildlife and history
Walking on the red rock cliffs at Calibishie for the sunset
Dinner at Keepin’ It Real on a peaceful beach for sunset
Some of these activities may be changed, swapped, or altered depending on how our week on the water goes and the preferences of the group.
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We put particular emphasis on getting a deeper understanding of what we are seeing and doing.
During our week there will be several optional talks in the evening on topics such as the unique social dynamics and lifestyle of sperm whales, sperm whale communication and culture, and the evolution and current state of whales.
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Time to say our goodbyes until the next adventure. You will be dropped off at the airport in time for your flight home.
Accommodation
We will be based in Portsmouth, in the north of Dominica. Our hotel is perched on a hill, giving us incredible views each morning and evening over town.
This boutique hotel is small, which allows us to maintain a more intimate, “homey” atmosphere to the trip. There is free wifi, a pool, and a restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Twin sharing rooms and breakfast at the hotel is included (lunch on the boat is also included). Single rooms are available for an additional supplement.
Booking Details
Ready to go on an incredible adventure?
Learn more about our Dominica experiences
Learn more
Questions?
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The trip is $5,500 twin sharing.
This includes all activities, accommodation, airport pickup, breakfast and lunch.
Single room supplements are available for an additional charge.
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There will be a maximum of 6 guests on this trip.
Whale permits in Dominica allow up to 4 people to be in the water at a time (3 guests + guide), so we will split into two groups and take turns with drops.
Everyone is welcome. You have to be comfortable with swimming over deep water. Reach out if you have concerns and we can discuss what makes sense for you.
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All scheduled water and land activities
Whale talks
Accommodation
Breakfast & Lunch
Scheduled airport pick up & drop off
Guide
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International flights
Dinner, snacks & drinks
Gratuities
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Click the green “Book Now” button to submit your deposit for the trip.
You can also reach out to us at alex@thoughtfulexpeditions.com or by filling out the informational form below.
You can pay by credit card or bank transfer using the currency you prefer. (The trip is quoted in USD, but it is possible to pay in EUR, GBP, and other major currencies)
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Water temperature in Dominica is around 28-29 C. Most people find it comfortable to wear a swimsuit and long sleeve rash guard to protect yourself from the sun.
We recommend bringing your own mask, snorkel, and free diving fins that you are comfortable with.
Gear rentals are available for those who do not want to bring their own mask, snorkel, or fins.
Rental weights are available for a small fee.
The weather in Dominica is warm, humid, and rain is a frequent possibility. You may also want to bring clothing appropriate for the short hikes we may do on our land excursions.
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A $1,500 deposit will be required to secure your spot on the trip.
The remaining balance will be split over 2 payments due 90 and 60 days before the trip begins.
Our payment processor charges no fees for bank transfers, and a standard 1.5% - 2.9% fee for credit cards.
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Unfortunately, there are no cancellations within 90 days of the trip starting.
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We are always happy to talk about trip, answer questions, or offer recommendations.
Please reach out to:
Instagram: @alexpham.underwater
Contact form below