Swim with SPERM WHALES in DOMINICA
Discover sperm whales in Dominica
Swimming with sperm whales is one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth. It is also unpredictable by nature.
These are wild animals moving through a vast ocean environment. Some days we spend hours in close proximity with multiple groups. Other days require patience, searching, and understanding how previous days might shape today.
Dominica is one of the few places in the world where this experience is possible at all, supported by a strict permitting system that limits pressure on the population and protects the integrity of the encounter.
We operate under multiple 5-day permits each year, taking small groups offshore to locate and spend time with sperm whales in their world. No scuba certification is required, and all in-water interactions are conducted on the whales’ terms, when conditions allow.
What defines this expedition is not guaranteed sightings, but the ability of our team to adapt in real time both on the boat, and in the water to the movement and behaviour of the whales. This is not a controlled wildlife experience. It is a real ocean encounter, guided by experience rather than certainty.
2026 Expeditions
October / November 2026- 2 sessions remaining
Session 1 — Oct 29 – Nov 4 — (SOLD OUT)
Session 2 — Nov 3 – 9 — 1 spot left
Session 3 and 4 - Sold out
2027 Expeditions - now booking
What makes the difference in Dominica.
What you get with us is real-time decision making in the field, shaped by decades of experience with individual sperm whale behavior.
When there are a lot of whales, it’s pretty easy to see them. But, some weeks are abundant and others aren't. You don’t know which week you will get when you book. What you can expect is that every opportunity will be approached as if it's our only chance. We apply everything we know to maximise what that whale is willing to give. We don't operate on a jump in and hope approach.
In the water, reading whether a whale is about to engage or move away is the difference between seeing a whale and having an encounter with one.
Pinchy, a sperm whale we know well in these waters, responds best to calm, tightly grouped positioning. When we honor that, she'll often pass slowly and give each person a close, deliberate moment. That's what experience looks like in the field.
Whether this is your first time in the water with whales or your twentieth, our job doesn't change. Read the animal, guide the group, and make the most of every moment. That's what you get with us.
Dominica Sperm whale Expedition Dates for 2027
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January 2027
Session 1- January 3-9 (SOLD OUT)
Session 2- January 8-14 (SOLD OUT)
Session 3- January 14- 20 (1 spot left)
Session 4 -January 19-25 (1 spot left)
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February 2027
Session 1- February -19- 25 (SOLD OUT)
Session 2- February 24-March 2 (3 spots left)
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March 2027
Session 1- March 22-28
Session 2- March 27- April 2
Session 3- April 2- 8
Session 4- April 7- 13
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November 2027
To be Announced
About
We will be running multiple sessions to Dominica in 2026/27 to spend our days swimming with these amazing animals. Under the permit these are very small groups up to 6 maximum.
We’ve charted a boat just for us, and we'll be out about 6+ hours a day to find and swim with these gentle giants. Given the population in Dominica is year round, we predict a high likelihood of frequent encounters. Those times when we're not seeing them, there are plenty of other mammals to keep us occupied, here's just a few that are commonly seen, Remember though, nothing is guaranteed, and they are wild animals, it’s up to them if they are around.
False killer whales, Pygmy orca,
Spinner, bottlenose, and spotted dolphins
Pilot whales, beaked whales and more.
Our local guide will be seasoned professional and member of the Dominica Sperm Whale Project research team. He lives in Dominica year round and collects ID and acoustic data on the sperms whales. His in-depth knowledge and access to cutting edge research on this population of Sperm Whales will be an invaluable resource on contribution to your expedition.
Inclusions
5 Days on the water
Airport transfers
6 Nights Accommodation including breakfast
Swim with whales permit
Vessel, Captain and Guide fees
Taxis to different restaurants for group dinners
Lunch and non-alcoholic drinks on board vessel
Digital Photographs from our trip leaders
Exclusions
Airfare
Dinners
Private Airport Transfers
Gratuities
Additional expenses (alcoholic drinks, gifts, personal expenses)
Travel Insurance (Required)
Itinerary*
Day 1. Land in Dominica and be transferred to Portsmouth on the North west side of the island
Day 2- 6. Breakfast then head out to swim with Sperm Whales and anything else we see!!!
Day 7. Transfer back to Airport for your flights home.
*Contact us if you wish to do multiple sessions in a row for discounted pricing per session.
What to bring
Rash vest, or thermal top, wetsuit if you get cold.
Mask
Snorkel
Fins
Rain/WInd jacket
Camera
Recent Trip Reviews
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February 2026
My February 2026 trip to Dominica to swim with sperm whales with Just the Wild was nothing short of life-changing. This was my second expedition with them, and somehow the experience was even more powerful the second time around. Our guide and expert, Kellon, was absolutely incredible. His knowledge of the whales, the ocean, and their behavior made every moment on the water feel purposeful and respectful. You could tell he truly cares about both the animals and the people lucky enough to witness them. His passion and expertise elevated the entire experience. Equally impressive was our boat captain, Pernell. His ability to sense where the whales were and position us perfectly was awe-inspiring. Watching the teamwork between Kellon and Pernell was amazing—they worked seamlessly together and made every encounter feel both safe and magical. Beyond the time in the water, the hotel and staff were top-notch. Everyone was incredibly friendly and welcoming, and by the end of the trip it truly felt like we had become part of a family. The entire operation runs with such warmth and professionalism that it makes the experience even more special. Swimming alongside sperm whales in their natural environment is something that’s hard to describe. It’s humbling, emotional, and profoundly moving. This experience genuinely changed me as a person, and it’s something I treasure deeply. The trip is absolutely worth the price of admission. Experiences like this are rare, meaningful, and unforgettable. After doing it twice now, I can confidently say I plan to return every year that I possibly can, and I’m excited to explore other expeditions that Just the Wild offers as well. If you ever have the opportunity to do this trip, take it. It’s one of the most extraordinary experiences you can have in the natural world. By Cooper S on March 10 2026
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February 2026
Wonderful experience all around. Three days with Sperm whales and over 10 dives with these magnificent animals... We hiked to waterfalls everyday, enjoyed Dominica rum, cuisine, and the locals. Our team decided to spend an afternoon snorkeling and learning how to spear fish. We slayed a fair number of lion fish that the chefs cleaned and prepared for us fresh on our hotel deck... The north of Dominica still has that wild, untapped feel. Shoutout to Omar and Kellen... Also, magnificent creatures ;)
By Dustin B March 10 2026
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January 2026
Hard to put this trip into words. It was a trip of a lifetime! The island and the people were absolutely beautiful, kind ane welcoming. My first time experience swimming with whales was breathtaking. It has changed me and made me love the ocean even more. I completely adore my guide Amiee. She made this experience even better. Thank you so much for making this happen for me and all my friends. Still holding onto the chill Sperm Whale vibes in my crazy chaotic life. ❤️🐋❤️🐳❤️
By Heather H on Feb 28, 2026
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January 2026
I am still attempting re-entry into the mundane after swimming amongst the whales of Dominica with Just the Wild. The encounters were surreal; seeing the whales in their natural habitat, listening to their songs, and looking in their eyes is hard to describe in words. The professional and knowledgeable crew demonstrated both respect for the whales and concern for us humans while orchestrating our encounters. The ocean is a vast and unpredictable place, yet our guide, Aimee, competently coordinated our swims while Captain Pernell and Mate John understood how to put us in position to maximize our interactions without disturbing the whales. The hotel staff were exceptional, the food great, and everything about the trip was outstanding. If you want ethical and meaningful experiences that enrich and support the local community and provide a deep connection to nature, Just the Wild delivers that and more. I am already planning my next adventure! Sharing azure seas. Eyes reflect the world unknown. Swim away with me.
By Amy H, Feb 1, 2026
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November 2025
This was my second trip with Just the Wild and I already have my third trip booked. Our trip to Dominica was incredible: we had a lovely and charming place to stay with very kind staff members. The hotel owner also informed us about a baby turtle excavation which we were able to fit into our trip which was so special to see! Our guide Shane was knowledgeable, kind and eager for us to have the best experience. Pernell is indeed the whale whisperer and expertly navigated us to find false killer whales, pygmy whales, and sperm whales. We were so lucky to be able to experience this and I cannot wait to join Just the Wild again for my next trip!
By Sarah S on Nov 30, 2025
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November 2025
No notes...except for bugs, perfect from beginning to end!
By Kay M on Nov 24, 2025
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November 2025
We adored this trip. Sure there were hours of waiting between sightings, but it made the times we had with sperm whales that much more special. Accommodation was clean and lovely and all the staff were wonderful, especially Tammy and her warm welcoming smile. We really enjoyed spending time with Shane and watching Pernell in action - what a team to guide us on this wonderful trip! And of course the superstars were the whales - sperm whales, false killer whales, even pygmy false killer whales. Thanks for another truly memorable trip!
By Shera M on Nov 24, 2025
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March 2025
This really was the adventure of a lifetime. Everything was incredibly well planned and executed. Pernell, the whale finder, was dedicated and so adept at locating the whales. He was a master, truly. He found whales 4 out of the 5 days we were on the water. He kept us at a safe distance from the whales and then when we got in the water Aimee took over and really stole the show. She positioned us for maximum visibility and it was worth it. We were front row to these magnificent animals as they cruised by. We saw them and they saw us ! Its difficult to put into words how awe inspiring it is to be in the water with these whales as they get closer and you can appreciate their size and grace. My kids and wife all agreed that this was one of the greatest experiences ever !
By John W on Apr 21, 2025
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March 2025
A magical experience & a rare opportunity to encounter these extraordinary animals close up. The team is very sensitive to the whales and the ecosystem; Just the Wild have the most experienced local guides- and brilliant lead guides (thanks Aimee!). Eco-tourism at its best...and, you get to be in the Dominica for a week!
By Joseph O on Nov 21, 2025
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November 2024
Everything was exceptional during this adventure in Dominica. The experience of swimming with these gentle giants and observing them was nothing short of breath taking. The expedition leader Kellon, was a phenomenal guide, who answered our inquisitive questions and facilitated the most naturally surreal encounters with these beauties. This being my second tour with ‘Just the Wild’, I can hands down say that the experiences that they offer of ethically viewing these stunning animals will leave a lasting impression on you, I’ll definitely be back again.
By Corey D on Dec 09, 2024
Follow the expeditions. Short dispatches from the field — what we're seeing, where the whales are, what actually happens out there.
PAYMENT POLICY
A deposit of $1800 is require to reserve your booking
The balance is due 180 days prior to departure.
No surcharge fees for credit card payments
CANCELLATION POLICY
All cancellations made more than 150 days prior to departure will receive a refund (less an administrative fee of $500 USD per person). This fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Cancellations made <150 calendar days prior to departure will not be refunded. It is advised and recommended that you get travel insurance.
We are not responsible for cancellations due to medical or other reasons.
No fees will be refunded if you withdraw after an expedition begins.
We are not responsible for any fees associated with non-refundable air travel.
Buy Travel Insurance.