Let’s face it, Whale watching in Samana is nowadays one of the most enriching activities for any tourist traveling to the Dominican Republic, and it can be done perfectly respecting the animals and their natural environment. Our experience planning sustainable trips to this country, adapted to the desires and needs of tourists, has allowed us to offer the best opportunities in nature.
We know the secrets of this land and we know how to make your experience in Samana Bay unforgettable. In the following lines, we will share all the tips on the best time to see the whales, how to do whale watching responsibly and get to know the marine life like never before. We combine the best of nature and tourism to offer you a sustainable and easy to navigate trip.
How to watch whales in Samaná?
The whale watching season in Samaná Bay ends this March, but it may be a good time to start planning your trip with plenty of time to spare. To the northwest of the island, between 1,500 and 2,000 humpback or humpback whales gather in the Caribbean waters for their migration from the North Atlantic. This spectacle of nature is a unique opportunity for lovers of marine life and sustainable tourism.
However, if you want to enjoy this experience to the fullest, it is important that you take into account some tips compiled during our years of experience organizing trips to the area:
Respect marine life
Maintain a minimum distance of 270 feet (80 meters) with the mother and calf, and 165 feet (50 meters) with the rest of the whales so as not to disturb their natural habitat. Remember to avoid any behavior that may stress the marine giants. Responsible observation guarantees the physical integrity of these animals.
Respect access measures
Whale watching boats in Samaná depart from different ports in the area, especially from this city and the municipality of Miches. There you can start the tour, which may include transportation from the hotel to facilitate access to this activity. When you arrive at the port, you will not have to worry about anything, the guides will be waiting for you to accompany you during the excursion and provide you with all the information about the whales and their behavior.
Follow the guide’s instructions
During the boat trip, follow the guide’s instructions. The boats can travel up to 3 and 4 hours, depending on the conditions of the day, in search of the best viewing spots. So, keep your eyes open and be ready to capture the best moment from your camera. The experience of navigating the waters of Samana while watching the majestic whales in their natural environment is an exciting experience that you will take with you etched in your retina.
Keep silent to appreciate the song
During the excursion, remember to keep quiet to listen to the captivating song of the humpback whales. The males are famous for their way of singing to mate, locate other whales of their species or get food. Their curiosity leads them to approach the boats, but you must respect their environment at all times so that they feel comfortable and continue to show their natural behavior.
Whale watching from the land observatory
If you prefer to enjoy whale watching in Samaná from the mainland, the Whale Observatory at Punta Balandra is a great option. From this viewpoint, inaugurated by the Ministry of Environment, you can contemplate the humpback whales with unparalleled panoramic views.
Knows its length
These fin whales can reach 15 to 17 meters in length and exceed 30 tons in weight. Imagine how imposing the presence of these creatures is as they move through the icy arctic and subarctic waters. The young are born in Dominican waters, after almost a year of gestation, and are usually about 5 meters long. Their life expectancy is between 40 and 50 years.
When can I see the whales of Samaná?
It is impossible to travel to the Dominican Republic and watch whales in a sustainable way without seeing the spectacle they offer in the bay of Samaná. Humpback whales make these waters a temporary home. Although the first ones start arriving in November and the last ones leave in April, the best time for whale watching is from mid-January to the end of March.
During these months, the waters of Samaná become the main whale watching area. The boats authorized by the Ministry are in charge of taking visitors to the best whale watching spots. However, following strict rules, such as keeping a safe distance and reducing speed when sighting an animal.
In Enjoy Travel Group, we show you sustainable opportunities adapted 100% to your needs to enjoy nature. Contact us to plan your whale watching adventure in this bay and discover the magic of these marine giants with the utmost respect for their habitat. It is a spectacle of nature that you cannot miss.
