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Swim with Humpback Whales: Interview with Susan Bird (Podcast Show Notes)
I interviewed Susan Bird (please listen above), who leads multiple expeditions in the Dominican Republic to swim with Humpback Whales. She is also amazing at energy work, check out her site. Now, these expeditions are not a tourist trap. These expeditions require a permit, a liveaboard boat that may only have 15 guests or so on it. They require a guide and a boat that can read the whales’ movements and know when and where to put people in the water.
The Right Mindset to Swim with Humpback Whales
You need to have an open mindset for these experience and patience. There could be bad weather days, some whales may just cruise by and may not be open for an encounter, you need to come with an open heart and good energy because you are now in the whales’ territory and these animals can feel your vibration and energy. It’s important to swim with humpback whales with only the best of intentions with love in your heart.
Susan Bird is very experienced with energy work and she can help guide the group into putting out the best energy and love to encounter these amazing creatures. In the podcast episode above, Susan shared one of her top favorite experiences when she encountered a mom and calf humpback whale and how they responded to their energy in the water.
Why Should Others Experience Swimming with Humpback Whales
This circumstance is out of the ordinary, you are on a liveaboard, 85 miles from shore, and it pulls people out of their day to day experience. This experience helps you break from your structure. You’re surrounded by water and the stars and there’s no internet. It’s a great way to pull yourself away from your comfort zone and help you experience amazing beauty in nature.
It expands your consciousness and awareness and this type of experience gives people a new appreciation for the ocean. The ocean is represented as another level of consciousness and when you enter the ocean it’s like you’re entering a subconscious and then you’re exposed to a new world underwater. Then you add a 35-foot creature come up to you and look at you in your eyes, it shifts something in their hearts and souls. Many people become proponents for ocean creatures and ocean conservation after swimming with humpback whales.
Should You Swim with Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic (Silver Bank) or Tonga?
The Dominican Republic and Tonga are the 2 most popular places to swim with humpback whales. The difference in between the two is how many boats are out, permits given out, and how you see them. In Tonga, you would stay on the island then go out each day, where is as the Dominican Republic, you would be on a liveaboard.
In Tonga, the biggest concerns are the number of boats and operators and they give out around 35 or 36 permits to boats. There are usually a good solid 20 boats out at a time. The people in Tonga are wonderful, but Susan is a proponent for restrictions and safe ecotourism that is beneficial to the people and the whales.
In the Dominican Republic, there are guidelines and restrictions for the number of boats and the guidelines prioritize the highest well being of the animals. Only 3 boats operate in the silver banks (off of the Dominican Republic) which gives a more intimate experience for the whales and the guests.
What Types of Skills Do You Need to Swim with the Humpback Whales?
- You need to be proficient at snorkeling
- Comfortable in open water
When Should You Go to Silver Banks to Swim with the Humpback Whales
Late January through mid-April. The whales begin to show up in November/Dec, but the boats start to go out in January.
How Far in Advance Should You Plan this Trip and Who Should You Book With?
You should plan this a year or two in advance. The 2019 season is already sold out. This is an experience you should prepare for by practicing snorkeling, freediving, and testing your gear. You should book your trip through Aquatic Adventures. They have been doing this for 29 years, pretty amazing. Check out the schedule for 2020!
How Much Does it Cost to Swim with Humpback Whales in the Dominican Republic (Silver Banks)
The average cost ranges from $3,700 – $4,100. Also, there are cruising and fuel fees that are another $700 (based on double occupancy). You’re landing around $4,300 – $4,800. Then you need to factor in a tip for the crew, at around $400 or more. Many people tip 10-20% on the base price of the trip.
This price includes all of your food, drinks, service… it’s an all-inclusive deal.
How Long is the Silver Banks Liveaboard Trip?
People arrive Saturday, and the boat motors out to the Silver Banks so you’re out there by Sunday. You spend the entire week at the Silver Banks and leave the next Saturday, so about 6-7 days. Which is the perfect amount of time to hopefully have an amazing encounter!
What Type of Gear Do You Need?
- Mask
- Snorkel
- Fins
- Wetsuit (2-3 mm)
Do You Love Whales?
Follow Susan on Instagram check out her Facebook page for amazing photos, videos and more!
