Courtesy of Aggressor AdventuresTurks & Caicos Aggressor II Liveaboard Yacht
It's utterly awe-inspiring—families of humpback whales, some weighing as much as 40 tons and filling the ocean with their songs, are just feet from where you're snorkeling.
Front-Row Seat to One of Nature's Greatest Shows
Every year from January to April, the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II transports guests to the whales' mating grounds and nursery—the fabled Silver Bank in the Dominican Republic. You'll have a front-row seat to one of the greatest shows on Earth—hundreds of North Atlantic humpbacks in a protected sanctuary north of the mainland.
The Turks & Caicos Aggressor II is one of only three liveaboard vessels permitted to operate in the sanctuary during the whales' peak breeding season. These strict regulations ensure low-impact tourism and limit total visitors to fewer than 60 per week.
The seven-night charters are led by an expert staff who are skilled in interpreting the behavior of the whales. The captain and staff follow strict protocols while providing amazing, up-close encounters. Two 18-foot tenders—fitted with dive ladders for easy exiting and a full-length bimini top for sun protection—ferry guests on daily excursions to locate groups of whales. Encounters can last mere seconds or up to an hour.
Courtesy of Aggressor AdventuresUp-close encounter with a Humpback Whale
Rowdy Groups and Rare Encounters
You may also be fortunate to encounter a "rowdy group." These are groups of males competing aggressively for the attention of a female whale, hoping to mate with her. The dominant male will use any tactic to attract the female's attention, from ramming and head-butting to biting and vocalizing loudly.
Whatever type of encounter you have—a soft in-water one with a protective mother, a fun interaction with a curious calf, or a more chaotic one with contesting males—the whales control the distance and the time. The humpbacks may disappear almost immediately, or they may approach your group, a behavior seen particularly with calves and mothers.
Along with packing your mask, snorkel and fins, it helps to bring an extra measure of patience, too.
Vacation Vibe:
Salt-kissed, soulful and alive—humpbacks breaching, curious calves approaching, and protective mothers keeping watch.
Humpback Happy Hour on the Sun Deck
Courtesy of Aggressor Adventures
Aboard the 120-foot Turks & Caicos Aggressor II, guests enjoy attentive service and the yacht's amenities, including a computer for photo editing and a roomy sun deck that features a hot tub and shaded cocktail area.
It's the perfect spot for guests to gather for "humpback happy hour." Sip your favorite beverage and watch the whales, reveling in their impressive pectoral fin slapping and waving, tail lobbing, and breaching displays.
The Silver Bank is one of the only places on Earth where snorkelers are permitted to swim with humpback whales. When you witness these gentle giants, you will be touched by the transformative power of the ocean and its creatures. You'll have an intimate experience that lingers long after you've returned home.
Yacht Specs:
Length/Beam: 120 feet/22 feet
Passenger-to-Staff Ratio: 18:6
Staterooms/Beds: 9/18
Bathrooms: Deluxe and Master staterooms have a private toilet and shower. Twin Share staterooms share a toilet and shower between two rooms. All rooms have individual climate control.
Sun Deck: Shaded cocktail area, chaise lounges, hot tub and grill.
Food/Beverages: All meals, snacks and beverages are provided, including a limited selection of local beer and wine.
Wi-Fi: Guests may purchase internet access via the OnAdventure Network.
Plan Your Turks & Caicos Liveaboard Trip:
Phone: +1 706-993-2531
Toll Free: 800-348-2628 (USA/CAN)
Fax: +1 706-737-7690
Email: [email protected]
Web: aggressor.com
