Dolphin and Whale Adventures, Dolphin Communication, Whale Communication

Cetaceans are conveyors of ancient wisdom and planetary transformational energies. They expedite deep growth and healing on many levels, accelerating the telepathic connection of all life on Earth and beyond. The whales are wise, loving evolutionary guides. The dolphins are messengers of the whales. In their wisdom, love, and playfulness these wonderful beings invite us to come and receive powerful heart and soul activations. These experiences will change your life in ways unimagined.

Wild Atlantic Spotted Dolphins going interdimensional (photos by Tita Dimnik and Dolphin Expeditions)

PREPARATION AND ELIGIBILITY
To maximize our individual and group experience, it is recommended that you read Penelope Smith’s book, Animal Talk. It can be ordered through www.animaltalk.net or by calling 1-800-431-1579.
The adventure is enjoyable for all age groups and experience levels. You do not have to be a strong swimmer. Even non-swimmers can enjoy the journey from the boat or with a flotation vest supplied by the boat. To participate in our group attunement exercises in the water you need to be comfortable in the water. It helps to practice swimming and snorkeling before coming on the trip. You need a properly fitting mask, snorkel, and fins; the boat does not provide them. Scuba diving is not allowed with the dolphins.

TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATIONS ON LAND

SATURDAY or earlier: Fly to Fort Lauderdale or Miami, Florida and stay overnight on Saturday. In recent years, I enjoyed staying at the Marriott hotel at 2440 W. Cypress Creek Road, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 (called Courtyard Ft. Lauderdale North/Cypress Creek on the Marriott hotel website http://marriott.com/property/propertypage/FLLCP). From Ft. Lauderdale International Airport it is a twenty minute taxi ride to the Marriott Hotel, which is next to the Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport, from which we leave on Sunday morning.
Some guests have to fly into Miami. It isn't hard to get to Ft Lauderdale from Miami. It's only a forty-five minute drive and there are also shuttles between airports. Bimini Island Air passes on discounts that they receive from several hotels in the area. Check with them when you reserve your flight.

FLIGHT TO BIMINI ON SUNDAY Dolphin Expeditions has been working with Bimini Island Air (BIA) for 10 years. They have a perfect safety record and have taken excellent care of both our crew and our guests. The flights leave at 8:30 AM on Sundays and return at 10.00 AM from Bimini on Fridays. Let them know that you are with Dolphin Expeditions for this flight. Round trip ticket is around $212.00. For reservations call 954-938-8991.
Take a twenty minute taxi ride from Ft. Lauderdale International Airport to Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport. The return flight is 10:00 AM the following Friday. You will land in South Bimini and then taxi (about $5) to the boat. Geoffrey Hanan, the boat captain is on most of the flights to help with anything you might need.

ITINERARY & FEATURES

OUR STAY IN BIMINI Our adventure is a unique experience in one of a few areas in the world where free roaming dolphins will interact with humans in the water. This remote area of the Bahamas is not accessible to the public or cruise ships, which limits the trip to small groups of people and prevents harm to the dolphins' environment. This area is within sight of the main island and will be our base as we join our oceanic friends.
We snorkel among the beautiful coral reefs viewing rays, (gentle) nurse sharks, and an array of colorful tropical fish. The underwater "Bimini Road" or "Road to Atlantis" is intriguing in its tile-like stone formation. You may experience a palpable, historic energetic connection as we anchor near or snorkel above it, as it is reputed to have originally lead to the lost city of Atlantis.
With snorkeling gear, we can float, dive, glide, swim, and play alongside the dolphins as they choose to interact with us. We do not feed, reach out to touch, chase, or harass the dolphins in any way. The dolphins may come very close, looking you in the eyes, scanning you with their sonar, and even gently touching people.

Penelope facilitates group attunement exercises on the boat and in the water to tune in to, communicate with, and align with the dolphins. These attunements have often appeared to help create longer and more frequent dolphin encounters than usually seen by the crew. On some dolphin journeys, the dolphins have come to play and commune with our group a number of times daily and up to five hours at a time.

We have time between dolphin swims to relax, participate in group meditations and exercise, drum, sing, dance, and have quiet time to journal, ask questions, and share experiences. Facilitated exercises will be sensitively organized according to group need, and participation is optional. Each morning “Seaweed Yoga” – gentle stretching, dance movement with energetic and sound meditation may be offered to gently wake up and attune us to the ocean and dolphins. Besides the moving, joyful, energetic effect of contact with the dolphins, being in the beautiful oceanic environment with all the elements, animals, plants, beaches, clear, warm turquoise water, and amazing energy of the area can induce deep transformative states.
During time ashore in Bimini, we can explore the island, shop at the market, listen and dance to the island band at a bright local bar, and feel the warmth of the native islanders.

The following information is from our charter boat captain and the Dolphin Expeditions website http://www.dolphinexpeditions.com See this website for more photos, slideshows, videos, and other information about the dolphin trips. Captain Geoff (right) & Mark (shark & reef expert) aboard Calypso Spirit

DAY 1 (Sunday) Arrival from Ft. Lauderdale to Bimini. Boarding the boat from 10:00 AM. On early arrivals feel free to explore the island and its beaches. As soon as all arrive, we depart, weather permitting, for an anchorage off one of Bimini's beautiful beaches for an orientation. We spend the rest of the morning practicing and making sure that everyone feels comfortable with their snorkeling gear. Safety is a very important issue with us.
Lunch is next and if everyone is comfortable with their snorkeling ability we head off the dolphin grounds.

DAY 2–5 Operating our dolphin swims in Bimini gives us the ability to check out many other natural blessings the Bahamas has to offer. Some of the most beautiful waters and reefs anywhere in the world. Deserted islands with incredible beaches. The Atlantis Wall or Bimini Road, as the locals call it.
The big hearted, always happy to say hello people, the island, its food and music are all treats that we are able to enjoy during the week. Our main focus is of course swimming and interacting with the dolphins in their environment. The dolphins and the weather dictate our schedule for the week. An encounter can last from a few moments to three hours with from two to sixty dolphins participating.
Some weeks we swim several times a day every day and some weeks there may be days without swimming with the dolphins. We have been blessed in that we have only had three days since March 2004 without dolphin interactions. No one else can touch that. We have never had a week without an interaction. Weather can be much the same: some weeks are flat calm and sometimes a few days can be windy, rainy and rough. We do not go out when the weather is rough. These are things that are out of our control but also lends to a sense of awe in our environment as the weather and dolphins come and go at their own pace. Sit back and take it in and feel a smile stretch across your face.

DAY 6 (Friday) Departure time from the boat is 9 AM after breakfast. Flight to Fort Lauderdale is at 10 A.M.

BOAT ACCOMMODATIONS
Since the 2008 season, Dolphin Expeditions has a new larger, more comfortable boat called Indigo. At 91 feet, Indigo is the largest and most comfortable dolphin boat in the Bahamas. Every cabin has en-suite heads w/showers, hair dryers and regular house flushing toilets. There are three cabins with queen size berths w/singles over, two cabins with double berths w/singles over and the play room with quad berths. She easily rivals any shore side accommodations. Each cabin has both 220 and 110 volt outlets as well as charging stations on the dive deck and in the main salon. She is a fully finished yacht.
            The main dining area seats everyone comfortably with ocean views outside. Great for meals and getting together. There are two sun decks. A covered lido deck and a dive deck for those who would like shade. All the rooms have personal climate control with your own remote control. You may also sleep on deck in a hammock or on a mattress if the mood strikes you.
            Thirty feet above the water, the top sun deck is perfect for watching for dolphins or a taking in a beautiful night sky. For swimming with the dolphins or exploring a beautiful reef the custom steps and dive platform make it very easy for guests of any ability to be able to safely access the water. The fresh water rinse off is a nice convenience also. We also have a two custom dive dinghies for dolphin interactions. It keeps us very close to the dolphins both in and out of the water, and we will be using both boats depending on the situation.
            Indigo keeps with our eco agenda. In her past life as a dive boat in the Caribbean she had approval to operate in three different marine sanctuaries. She is quiet and there are no fumes to smell when you are in the water. Indigos' systems are very well done and efficient. We are able to make our own water, have a Trans Atlantic range and are almost as fuel efficient as a sailboat. There is very little waste. Weighing 130 tons with ballast tanks she is very stable. There are backups for everything and we are completely self sufficient. She has all the safety features that are required and more.

CREW
Captain Geoffrey Hanan has been interacting with the dolphins in Bimini and White Sands Ridge since he was ten years old. This is his 20th year with Dolphin Expeditions. Geoffrey was raised on a boat from childhood and has lived his life on the sea. He has been a skipper for several trans-Atlantic crossings as well as cruising and working boats throughout the Bahama Islands all of his life. His concern for the safety of his passengers, crew and the dolphins takes priority above all else. Geoff started his swims with the dolphins at the age of ten, while living each summer in Bimini with his family. The years since have instilled him with a deep love and respect for nature, especially for the wild dolphins. As well as an accomplished sailor, Geoffrey is also a clinical hypno-therapist, body worker, breath worker and energy worker.
            The crew (like our guests) are made up of an international assortment of men and women. Their roles vary from cooking, operating and maintaining the boats, to assisting guests who may need a hand in feeling more comfortable while swimming in the sea for the first time. Their common bond is a love for the dolphins and to be able to share that experience.
            Tita is celebrating her 5th year with us as our European chef. Each meal is cooked from scratch, including the homemade desserts. She is one of the most multi-talented people you will meet. Tita is also our photographer, taking around 1600 dolphin and guest shots each week. She speaks seven languages and is a very accomplished pianist, flutist, and dancer. She is now finishing her masters thesis in children’s education. Tita is also one of our safety divers. She and Mark take guests from non-swimmers to dolphin-like by the end of the week.
            We are the only dolphin boat to have a full time Marine Biologist on board. Mark “Kiwi” is one of the foremost experts in the world on sharks and stingrays. Mark is from New Zealand and is our skipper (one of the best)with a 200 ton Yachtmaster license. For five years Mark ran the world famous Shark Lab on Bimini and did his masters thesis while living for years with the Stingrays in Grand Cayman. Mark and Tita are the best safety diver team on the dolphin grounds.

CLIMATE AND WATER CONDITIONS
Summer temperatures in the Bahamas range from 76‑90 degrees F. moderated by cool ocean breezes. Ocean temperatures vary between 78‑90 degrees. The water depths in the area range from 20 to 40 feet and visibility can vary from unlimited to 50 feet. Sudden rain or storms can occur in any season.

WHAT TO BRING

ü Get quality mask, fins, and snorkel that fit well from a dive store in your area. Rental of snorkeling gear: This season we will be renting snorkeling gear to those who wish to. These are brand new, top quality masks, fins, and snorkels. The best on the market. Please let us know when you sign up so that we can reserve the necessary gear for your needs. There will also be a limited supply of masks, fins and snorkels available for purchase to those who might wish to upgrade or replace a broken piece of equipment. Please let us know when you sign up, that you wish to use this service, so that we will have can reserve it for you.

Captain Geoffrey Hanan’s recommendations on snorkeling gear: please buy quality snorkeling gear at a professional dive shop. Fins should be closed heeled with no booties. If you already have them, it’s okay. Try to buy the largest fin blade that will fit you. Many dive shops have been trying to sell the new split fins; they are expensive and don't give the resistance or power (which means ease of swimming) of the solid fin. Recommended fins: Mares Volo Race or similar fin. Snorkel-the 'IMPULSE II' or similar snorkel-not the dry snorkel-our guests have had problems with the top getting stuck and not letting air in. MASK: any mask that fits your face comfortably and stays on when you breathe in without the strap around your head. Please try to purchase the best equipment that you can afford and if possible practice before you join us to assure proper fit and comfort. This is to enhance your experience with the dolphins. We will also be spending all the time you might need to help you feel more comfortable in the water.
If you are buying online or don't have a dive shop near you, we recommend Austin's Dive Center Inc, we buy all of our gear from them and they know what our guests need. Ask for Doug and let him know you are going with Dolphin Expeditions and Geoff. He can recommend just what you might need with good prices. Order as much ahead of time as possible in case something doesn't fit so it might be exchanged. Austin's Dive Center Prices will be better if you call Doug-305-665-0636. Toll free in the U.S. 888-665-0636 www.austinsdiving.com

ü Travel light. Soft luggage on the boat is best. We recommend that you carry a bag on the airplane with your mask, fins, snorkel, t-shirt, and bathing suit. If your luggage is lost you may be unable to replace gear.

ü Dress on board and in the Bahamas is casual. We recommend that you bring two swim suits, two light shirts or blouses, sun hat or visor, sunglasses, T‑shirts, shorts, sundress, skirt, or sarong, light rain jacket or wind breaker, flip flop or non-skid soled sandals, 2 towels, including one beach towel, small first aid kit with Band-Aids, soap, washcloth, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, sun hat or visor, SPF 30 or greater waterproof sunscreen lotion (no oils or spray lotions allowed), lip balm, insect repellent. Due to people’s allergic sensitivities, artificial fragrances are not advised.

ü It is a good idea to bring a light dive skin or a loose fitting pair of long pants (light cotton) and long sleeve t-shirt to wear in the water to keep from burning, especially for the first few days.

ü While not necessary, the following items may make your trip more enjoyable: Camera; disposable underwater cameras work very well. Light blanket or sleeping bag for sleeping on deck if you wish; it’s beautiful. Reading material. Binoculars. Journal for keeping notes. Musical instruments to add to the drumming, singing, and dancing with each other and to the dolphins.

ü Seasickness is rare. However if you have a tendency to feel queasy around water, we recommend that you bring seasickness medication, herbs, or devices. Please check with your doctor.

ü U.S. citizens must bring a valid passport . Birth certificates with photo ID are no longer acceptable. Non U.S. citizens must check with the proper authorities for necessary documents, such as passports and visas. No person will be allowed to travel without proper documents.

ü Bring U.S. currency or traveler's checks for expenses that the trip fee does not include.

ü Do not bring illegal drugs of any kind; spray sun tan lotions or sun tan oils.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS from http://www.dolphinexpeditions.com
Can I touch or feed the dolphins?
Is it better to live-aboard or live-ashore? Pricing live-ashore trips.
How much "dolphin time" is there during the week?
Aside from free dolphin swims, do you also tow guests behind the boat?
How's the food?
Extra expenses
Crew Gratuity/Tipping
Smoking
Do you rent snorkeling gear?
Will I be comfortable?
May I have a single room?

ANSWERS to FAQs:
Touching or feeding the dolphins On our dolphin expeditions there is absolutely no touching or feeding of the dolphins. The beauty of the Bahamas dolphin trips is that they are wild, in their home and we are the guests. We work hard to ensure that the dolphins way of life remains as untouched as possible by the human presence. Even after over 40 years of swimming with these wonderful mammals we are still working to refine and improve the quality of our swims for both the dolphins and our guests. This has led to longer interactions both in and out of the water-with all choices being made by the dolphins.
Dolphin expeditions definitely does not condone certain behaviors that some operators use such as circling dolphins to attract them or when the dolphins have left the swimmers in the water, chasing them and jumping in again. The dolphins have made their decision and moved on. Also, we feel that putting 20 to 30 people in the water is counter productive to both the dolphins and the guests in many ways. We average 6-10 for a more intimate experience. We used to run two boats and have returned to only one to help keep the numbers down and the quality high. When the dolphins have made the choice to join and interact with us it is a much more mellow, relaxed and longer interaction--we feel really blessed to be a part of it. Seaweed Yoga

Live-aboard vs. live-ashore    We have been doing both types of trips for twenty years. We have found that when guests( who at first thought they wanted to live ashore) chose to live and cruise on the boat instead found that they have experienced much more of the dolphin and island feeling. Our Guest Log Book is full of favorable comments and compliments after their week on the boat.
                Living on the boat gives us an advantage over living ashore. While others are waiting on shore to go out later, you might be sitting on deck with your morning tea or coffee while a pod of bottlenose dolphins swim by feeding with their young. Quite often we have swum with dolphins before the land based groups have come out for their allotted time. On our boats Calypso Spirit and Indigo we have no allotted time.
                We have the most stable boats on the dolphin grounds. For me, life is too short to be in bad weather, and if it is bad we go to shore and play on the island. Because of our size and stability we are able to stay out safely when other boats might not come out at all.
                Those of you who have been in the Bahamas in the summer know that it can be pretty hot and humid-unlike the live ashore boats, we have air conditioning and all the comforts with us while we are out all day. This includes full meals and lots of shade and comfort on deck to look for dolphins.
                It can be pretty awesome being anchored off a beautiful beach in the evening, under a star filled sky, listening to the sound of dolphins blowing around the boat.
                There is a lot of beach time if you wish and a lot more time for snorkeling. We spend the best nights on the dolphin grounds and when the weather is not perfect we have the best marina on the island with all the land conveniences that you might wish. Tuesday night is our night ashore to eat at a Bahamian restaurant and dance to Calypso music if the spirit moves you. It's interesting that the guests who were the most concerned about living ashore have been the people who can't wait to leave the dock and get back out to the reefs and the dolphins the next morning.
                While there is plenty of time for sharing time with new friends, there is, also enough privacy on the boat that you can be alone with your thoughts or favorite book.
                There is something grand about ending the day moving along the beaches of Bimini after an active day of dolphins and reefs. To sit on the deck and watch a beautiful sunset with the smells of a wonderful dinner coming up from below. Life is good.

Pricing live-ashore packages It is a good idea to make sure what is included in the price of a live ashore trip-things like food and hotel taxes add up really fast. Food on the island is expensive and it is hard or next to impossible to find vegetables, salads and fresh fruits in stores or restaurants. If these things are not included you probably won't get them or you will pay dearly for them. All of our food is delivered fresh weekly to the boat, including fresh fruits and vegetables.

Dolphin Time Without a doubt the main focus of our trips are the dolphins. Being a wild eco-trip we are at the mercy of the weather and the dolphins. There can be several swims a day or one for the week. We have been blessed and have had only three days since March 2004 without a dolphin interaction; no one else can come close to that. The pod size runs from two to sixty dolphins and interactions can run from a few minutes to a couple hours. Over the last few years we have worked hard to figure out the best way to interact for both the dolphins and our guests. This has led to the dolphins making all the decisions (the only way it could be) and averaging around one and a half hours per interaction.
We like to balance the week between all the dolphin encounters that will be possible and enjoying the beauty and all that Bimini has to offer. There are beautiful reefs, beaches and private islands, not to forget the wonderful people of the island who add so much to the experience with their big hearts and laughter.

Swimming with the Dolphins Over the past 20 years we've always tried to be conscious of what is best for the dolphins. Also what will give our guests the most amount of time with the dolphins that they have dreamed of being with.
                Many operators will find a pod of dolphins, run right up to the pod and everyone jumps in. Most of the time, the dolphins will leave. Then everyone re-boards the boat and the boat repeats the maneuver again and again until the dolphin will succumb to the boat.We believe that when the dolphins leave, they have made a choice and we honor it.
                When we approach a pod of dolphins, we slowly move up to the side of the pod to see what they are doing. We wait until it is the best time for the dolphins, not us, to enter the water. If the dolphins interact with us right away that is wonderful. They also might not be finished with what they are doing and swim slowly. When this happens we just hold on to custom-made ropes that are behind the boat and float with the dolphins. The speed of the boat averages one mile per hour when moving. Most of the time we are just floating. Many of our guests have been concerned about needing to be in shape to do this. They find out quickly that it's easy. We have spent up to four hours in the water and the people who were the least in shape are the one's who stayed on the longest. The dolphins can join us anytime they wish and then resume what they were doing, we get to experience everything, and our guests don't miss what the dolphins are doing, whether they are feeding, nursing, sexing, or just being dolphins and playing with each other.
                While our guests are on the line, dolphins will float in their chest wave, rub up against us, and they love to swim next to people and give eye to eye contact.
                The free swims are what we are here for. The lines behind the boat have given us so much more time with the dolphins, that the other dolphin operators are now doing it. It is also fun. Many of our guests ask to be towed while we are waiting or looking for dolphins. You may come in and out of the water whenever you wish.
                The pictures on our website are examples of the free swims with the dolphins. We average much more time in the water than any other operator with dolphins in the wild.

Our Food Most of our guests feel that our food rivals the dolphin experience. Our menu has been made up what our guests have preferred over the last 18 years and is served family style. We easily satisfy vegetarians while the rest of the menu is great for everyone else. If there are any special needs, please let us know before the trip and it will be taken care of. I also believe that you should never worry that there is enough. We have never run out; if we did we will cook more! There are snacks available all day along with non alcoholic drinks. If you wish to have sodas or alcoholic drinks-they are available on the island. If you wish wine, bring it from the states-for both cost and quality.

Tita Dimnik - chef and photographer extraordinaire of Dolphin Expeditions with oceanic hair facilitated by Penelope

Extra Expenses The cab fare on the island is around $5 each way. It is usually around $20 to 25 on our night out on Wednesday to experience some great Bahamian food. There is a $15 tax when leaving the Bahamas. That is only payable in cash to the pilot. There is also $45 Bahamian tax that goes helping protect the eco-system in the islands. That is paid to the boat and we give it to the Bahamian government.
We now have t-shirts and hats available they are $20 each. Our end of the week DVD, which records your week with us is $40. This includes an edited CD put to music with another CD with all the photos taken during the week. Lately it has been around 1600 shots of dolphins and guests put to music with another CD with all the photos taken during the week. Lately it has been around 1600 shots of dolphins and guests.

Crew Gratuity/Tipping Considering the hours the crew put in, and the variety of activities in which they helped you indulge, 10-20% of the charter fee is common (divided among the crew members) would seem to be a good basis on which to work.

Smoking When we are at the dock, smoking is allowed on the dock, not the boat. At sea there is designated smoking on deck and never any smoking below.

Snorkeling gear Yes, we rent gear now. We carry the best mask, fins, and snorkels available for those who wish to rent their gear. Please let us know when you sign up, that you wish to use this service, so that we will have can reserve it for you. On the "what to bring" section is a list of gear that we have found to work well for those who wish to purchase their equipment. There is also the information on our supplier, Austins Dive Shop, who we feel, is probably the best in the country. They can take care of all of your snorkeling needs.

Comfort With our new boat, Indigo, there is not a more comfortable way to be with the dolphins in the Bahamas. While the summer is the best time for great dolphin weather it can also be warm. We are the only boat on the dolphin grounds with climate control during the day-if you have been here before you know how hot the Bahamas are in the summer. You can relax on deck in the shade, or go below for a siesta in air conditioned comfort. There is still plenty of room to get a tan on our lounge chairs whenever you wish. All of your meals are prepared for you and you don't have to do the dishes.

Single room? Our rooms are double occupancy. If the trip is not full and you wish a single, it is not a problem and there is no charge. If you must have a single room, you must pay for two.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions.
Dolphin Expeditions 2829 Bird Ave.# 287 Miami Fl. 33133
Phone 772-597-1800 / Fax 772-597-1801 Bimini 242-359-8060 E-Mail: dolphinexp@aol.com

DOLPHIN TRIP FEE INCLUDES
Accommodation aboard the boat during our time in Bimini
All meals, snacks, and activities aboard boat
Facilitation by Penelope Smith

DOLPHIN TRIP FEE DOES NOT INCLUDE
Roundtrip travel between your home and Ft. Lauderdale and Ft. Lauderdale-Bimini
Taxes mentioned in “extra expenses”
Taxi fares
Hotel accommodations.
Any expenses incurred on land
Gratuity for the crew.

This is the journey of a lifetime with our evolutionary leaders—the great whales!

It is hard to imagine or express the impact of floating in close proximity to these enormous, profoundly peaceful and aware beings. While other whale watching excursions focus on the whales solely as biological beings, participants of this journey spiritually prepare to meet the whales in a reverent manner to communicate with them, open to the greater love that they embody, and receive the abundant blessings of their masterful presence.

Every year thousands of humpback whales migrate to the Silver Bank, 90 miles from the Dominican Republic, for breeding and calving. Through a special license issued to only 3 boats by the Dominican Republic Whale Commission, our boat, the M/V Wind Dancer will be taking us to the whale breeding sanctuary for an exclusive, thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime whale adventure that few people ever have the privilege to experience.

The Silver Bank is a vast (hundreds of square miles) coral reef area that derives its name from the large amount of Spanish gold and silver lost during shipwrecks in the 1600's. The live-aboard boat cruises to the bank and acts as a mother ship to smaller launches that are used for close-up whale encounters. We may see whales breaching from the water, playfully slapping their pectoral-fins, or spy hopping to look at us. We may hear male humpback singers whose tunes vibrate the water around you. We may travel alongside and experience the powerful energy of rowdy groups of males competing for female attention. We may delight in mother, calf, and escort groups who often get within feet of the launches and allow people to gently slip into the water to accompany them. There is no other opportunity in the world that puts you this close to so many humpback whales.

On previous trips we have had eye-to-eye encounters with mother and baby whales in the water, playful interactions with humpback babies, intense surround sound sessions with adult male singers, and many soul-stirring connections with whales from our launches. The whales also gather in this sanctuary to do their extraordinary spiritual work for planetary evolution. We may be invited to co-create with them in whale prayer circles and energy configurations channeling light into the planet.

Floating above and being in the water close to these giant beings, whose awareness, sensitivity, grace, energy, and communication can be felt through every pore is a deep, soul-touching, heart opening experience. Our spiritual consciousness is transformed by contact with these master teachers and evolutionary leaders who embody the Greater Love.

We welcome participants who have a loving connection with animals and desire communication and spiritual communion with the whales. To maximize our individual and group experience, we strongly recommend that you read Penelope Smith’s book, Animal Talk. It can be ordered through this website's book webpage or by calling 1-800-431-1579. Preference will also be given to applicants who have done a Basic Course in Communication with Animals with Penelope or other instructors.

The adventure is enjoyable for all age groups and experience levels. You do not have to be a strong swimmer. To be comfortable in the water, it is strongly recommended that you practice swimming and snorkeling before coming on the trip. You will need a properly fitting mask, snorkel, and fins; the boat does not provide them. Even non-swimmers can enjoy the journey from the boat or with a flotation vest supplied by the boat.

Day 1 Saturday The first day is spent traveling to your point of departure, Puerto Plata or Santiago, Dominican Republic. Your gateway airports for Puerto Plata are Miami, Newark, JFK, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, with connecting flights to Puerto Plata via American or Continental Airlines. Book early, since available flights fill up fast to this popular vacation spot.

You can fly into Puerto Plata or Santiago airports. Puerto Plata airport is about 45 minutes from the boat marina, and Santiago airport is about one and one half hours from the marina. Either airport works fine to arrange ground transportation for you to or from the boat.

To find the best flights, check www.itasoftware.com. Unlike some travel sites such as Orbitz, who buy certain flights but do not have every single flight available to a particular destination, itasoftware.com lists every flight and cost of every commercial airline on the planet. They do not book flights, but they do show ALL flights in and out of Puerto Plata and Santiago, very helpful in finding all flight possibilities and flight costs for your trip.

Once your flights are confirmed, please let Penelope know your arrival and departure times, airline and flight numbers so Conscious Breath Adventures can arrange for you to be picked up and delivered to the airport. For emergencies, urgent trip questions, flight delays, or other problems call Captain Gene at (305) 753-1732.

To ensure that you do not miss a flight on Saturday (flight cancellations have occurred) and fail to arrive in time for boat departure, it is recommended that you travel on Friday and stay overnight in Puerto Plata. Hotel accommodations at lovely Sun Village Resort, next to the Ocean World Marina where the boat is docked, may be arranged to stay before or after the whale journey. Sun Village Resort accommodations include all meals, all drinks (including a fresh juice bar), use of 7 pools, beach access, and some activities. Mention you are with Conscious Breath Adventures and request the CBA discounted rate. Direct inquiries about accommodations to Mrs. Elisabeth Rojas erojas@sunvillageresorts.com. Reservations Agent 809-970-3364 ext 35060 Fax 809-970-3156 www.sunvillage.com

Winter is the busy season for Dominican Republic resorts. If you cannot get a room at Sun Village Resort, here is another option: Lifestyle Hacienda Resort (next to Sun Village Resort). Contact Maria Estrella, Corporate Sales & Marketing Director Lifestyle Hacienda Resorts, P.O. Box 608-Cofresi Beach #1, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, maria.estrella@hacienda-resorts.com, 809-970-7100; fax: 809-796-7709; mobile: 809-970-7777 and ask for the CBA discount on the rates.

There is also a resort complex at Playa Dorado and other resorts in the area found on the web that could accommodate you.

Upon arrival in Puerto Plata you will obtain a "tourist card" ($10) from Dominican Customs, and then proceed to the taxi area. If you have notified Conscious Breath Adventures of your arrival time into Puerto Plata, they will have a designated taxi driver meet you at the exit with a Wind Dancer sign to take you to your accommodations or the boat. If you are traveling alone from the airport to the vessel or to prearranged accommodations, expect another taxi service to charge up to $34 US (up to $100 from Santiago). The fee for group transportation arranged by Conscious Breath Adventures will be the same or less depending on the number of people traveling at the same time.

Our boat, the M/V Wind Dancer, will be at Ocean World Marina and may be boarded between 5 PM and Midnight on Saturday. The rest of the evening will be spent in port. We will have a group orientation and opening meditation for the whale journey on the boat with Penelope that evening after dinner. This meeting will help set the tone for a wonderful week together, so we'd like you to attend.

Day 2 Sunday The M/V Wind Dancer will leave for the Silver Bank humpback whale sanctuary at about midnight. Cruising to the sanctuary takes about 8 hours, depending on conditions. The M/V Wind Dancer anchors in an enclosure of coral pinnacles making

for a calm, enjoyable stay. Before lunch, the captains will give us an orientation to the boat and whale encounters. After lunch the two launches will leave for our first encounter with the whales.

Day 3, 4, 5, 6 The next four days will be spent at anchor in an area known as the Silver Bank. The whales are observed using smaller boats called tenders in the morning and afternoon for a total of 5-9 hours daily. We have a number of opportunities to visit the whales in the water. The M/V Wind Dancer is licensed and overseen by the Whale Commission of the Dominican Republic. Strict whale watching guidelines are followed so that the humpback's breeding activities are not disturbed! Off time can be spent swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and being immersed in the whale experience. Whales often come close to the main boat.

Penelope will facilitate whale attunement meditations, communications, morning "seaweed yoga" & meditation time (one-half hour before breakfast), an evening healing circle, and other exercises as needed.

After dinner we have experience sharing time with our group. Depending on how we feel, we might then have drumming, singing, dancing, or other activities on the deck. One night, we will have a shamanic healing circle with the Elder Spirits facilitated by Penelope.

Day 7 Friday We depart the Silver Bank after breakfast and reach port in the late afternoon. The arrival time is not predictable, so it is recommended that you do not book a flight home for Friday. You will have time to go ashore for shopping (jewelry, clothing, artifacts, coffee, and liquor) or beach combing. This is a great time to relax and further download the whale experience before you fly home. Dinner is not served on board that evening. You may enjoy a meal at one of the colorful local restaurants.

Day 8 Saturday You may schedule your flights to depart on Saturday morning or later. Departure from the vessel will be promptly at 9 A.M. Saturday morning, as the vessel has to be prepared for the arrival of new guests that afternoon. For guests departing later in the day, a Sun Village resort day use fee can be arranged for meals, beverages, pools, and beach. There are also free internet services at the Marina, use of the casino pool, and a beach nearby. (You may wish to avoid Ocean World Park, which gains from the use of captive dolphins and other animals for public “entertainment”.) Shuttles will be arranged to meet passengers at pre-arranged times to go to the airport or local hotels.

Our boat is the 120 foot M/V Wind Dancer, a large, well maintained, and very seaworthy vessel. She is compliant with all safety requirements outlined in the international SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Treaty.

The nine double-occupancy deluxe guest cabins each have in-suite sink, shower, and toilet, a lower bunk of double bed size, an upper bunk of twin bed size. Each cabin also includes a wardrobe, full length mirror, hairdryer, mirrored cabinet, bathrobes, and fresh towels daily. Reverse osmosis water makers supply fresh water for drinking and showering.

The main salon/dining area has a bar and entertainment center and is a very cozy, inviting space. The upstairs deck is very large, with sun and cover, chaises, tables, chairs, grill and a second bar. This deck is perfect for morning exercise and meditation, whale observations, healing circles, evening sundown celebrations and night time stargazing.

The tenders are 25' in length, fiberglass, with twin outboard four stroke engines, which are clean and quiet. Each tender has a full complement of safety equipment and a crew of two aboard, comprised of one Wind Dancer crewman, and one Conscious Breath Adventure crewman who will be guiding all of the whale activities. Each tender has extensive sun shade and spray protection. There is also a dry storage area for cameras and other gear. (I would advise everyone to bring and use dry bags for equipment, also.) Each tender will be provisioned with an ice chest that will contain beverages and substantial snacks. To see photos aboard the M/V Wind Dancer, it's two 25' tenders, and a virtual tour visit http://www.consciousbreathadventures.com/wind-dancer.html

The Wind Dancer will host a crew of eight, plus two Conscious Breath Adventures personnel. The vessel and its parent company are renowned for a very high standard of service. Hints of this service are reflected in the morning in-cabin beverage service; the nightly turn down service; the daily towel service; and the snacks and beverages provided aboard the tenders. The crew members take excellent care of everyone, focusing on comfort and safety, and are knowledgeable and respectful of our oceanic relatives.

Our Captain, Gene Flipse, has been a US Coast Guard licensed captain for eighteen years, and has worked aboard live aboard dive boats for twelve. He has ten years experience with Atlantic spotted dolphins in the Bahamas, and six seasons (50 weeks) experience with humpback whales on the Silver Bank. Over the years, I have enjoyed Gene’s competence as a captain, kindness to people, and his openness to communication from the whales.

Capt. Jeff Pantukhoff (pronounced Pan-a-hoff), is a kind and generous soul who has decades of marine mammal experience. He is the president and founder of The Whaleman Foundation, a non-profit conservation, research and production organization dedicated to the preservation of dolphins, whales, and their habitats. The Whaleman Foundation is currently involved in a major education and conservation campaign, called "Save the Whales Again.” Besides his Silver Bank experience, he also spends time each year in Hawaii acting as whale skiff captain and underwater photographer and videographer in support of humpback whale researchers there. He has guided groups to encounter spotted dolphins in the Bahamas; gray whales in Mexico; dolphins and whales in Hawaii; minke whales in Australia; and the humpbacks of the Silver Bank. Jeff’s documentary films have been presented before the United Nations, the International Whaling Commission, the U.S. Congress, and other governing bodies. Jeff will be a major contributor to the production of the weekly souvenir video. Conscious Breath Adventures will donate all proceeds from the sale of the weekly souvenir video to directly support marine mammal conservation efforts through the Whaleman Foundation's current "Save the Whales Again" campaign. The Whaleman Foundation has been a significant participant in global efforts to protect marine mammals. Through that experience, Jeff has gained a thorough knowledge about whales and dolphins and the threats they face. During the course of the week, Jeff will offer presentations to educate guests about whales and dolphins in general and humpback whales in particular. For more information about The Whaleman Foundation, visit www.whaleman.org; Save the Whales Again www.savethewhalesagain.org.

The menu will include options for omnivores and vegetarians. The vessel will try to accommodate special dietary requirements, but due to logistical and facilities limitations, it may not be able to accommodate those with the most sensitive requirements. With decades of experience in the industry, the chefs understand the needs of a wide range of diets, and will do their best to address those needs. Local beer and wine is included. Hard liquor may be brought on board by guests. If you have special food requirements, be sure to include them on the trip application; you may also wish to bring your own hard-to-find food items for special needs. Snacks are served in the afternoon between meals.

Winter temperatures in the Dominican Republic are generally warm and humid (65-85 degrees F). Ocean temperatures are in the mid 70's to low 80's. Sudden rain or storms can occur.

ü Get good quality, well-fitting mask, fins, and snorkel from a dive store in your area. Please try to purchase the best equipment that you can afford and practice before you join us to assure proper fit and comfort. If you are buying online or don't have a dive shop near you, Captain Gene Flipse recommends Austin's Dive Center Inc, he has been using this shop for his gear for 25 years and knows the management very well. they have offered to give CBA guests a discount off their online prices if guests buy their equipment through them. They are Miami's top local (not chain superstore) dive shop, and they regularly ship equipment all over the world. Guests only need call them at 888 665-0636 or 305-665-0636 and speak with Doug Austin, tell Doug that they are guests of Gene Flipse and Conscious Breath Adventures, and they will be given very good personalized service, and a discount. Order as much ahead of time as possible in case something doesn't fit so it might be exchanged. www.austinsdiving.com. Another source for equipment is www.diversdirect.com.

ü A thin dive skin can protect you from sunburn, abrasions, or possible stings. A wetsuit is optional. At least a short wetsuit may be needed if you tend to get cold in the water. You may wish to bring a dry bag for sensitive equipment taken out on the launches.

ü Please travel light. Dress on board and in the Dominican Republic is casual. We recommend that you bring two swim suits, two light shirts or blouses, sun hat, T-shirts, shorts, slacks, skirt, sundresses or sarong, a light rain poncho or wind jacket, sweatshirt, flip flop or other non-skid sandals, small first aid kit with Band-Aids, soap, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, cap or visor, waterproof sunscreen lotion (no oil), extra batteries and film for your camera. Due to people’s allergic sensitivities, artificial fragrances are not advised.

ü We recommend that you carry a bag on the airplane with your mask, fins, snorkel, bathing suit, and a change of clothes. The boat cannot be expected to replace swimming gear if your luggage is lost.

ü Musical instruments to add to the drumming, singing, and dancing with each other and to the whales.

ü Seasickness: Built to travel the ocean, the M/V Wind Dancer’s construction ensures minimum movement and prevents most people from getting seasick. The crossing to the whale sanctuary can be bouncy, and if you have a tendency to feel queasy around water, we recommend that you bring seasickness medication, such as Bonine. Please check with your doctor. Some people find acupressure wrist bands, ginger herb capsules, or homeopathic remedies to be helpful. On previous trips, I have taken ginger capsules 2x/day for two days before and Hyland’s Homeopathic Motion Sickness tablets the night before and morning that we set out to the Silver Bank.

ü A passport is required to enter the Dominican Republic. Non-US residents should check for other documentation needed. No one will be given a refund for improper documentation resulting in not being allowed to enter the country.

ü Bring U.S. currency or traveler's checks for expenses that the trip fee does not include. For purchases off the vessel in the Dominican Republic the US dollar is accepted almost everywhere. Most major credit cards are accepted in the Dominican Republic, and ATM machines are available at resorts.

· Accommodations (double occupancy) aboard the M/V Wind Dancer Saturday night through Friday night.

· All meals, snacks, and beverages, including morning in-room beverage service onboard from Saturday dinner through Friday lunch.

· Daily excursions to be with the whales and all crew services (mentioned above)

· Airfare to and from Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic tourist card upon arrival, airport departure taxes, transportation to and from airport and hotels

· Gratuity for the crew. It is customary on live-aboard charters to tip the crew based on overall performance and service with 10% of the individual trip fee considered reasonable. Gratuities are optional and discretionary. The crew greatly appreciates your contribution. Payment methods include cash, travelers checks, and credit cards.

In my work in interspecies telepathic communication, I emphasize the unity of all Life, the communion of all beings, no matter the species or form. Many people have made emotionally fulfilling connections with dolphins and whales. Often, in their enthusiasm, people consider these wonderful marine mammals as superior to all other animal species because of the size of their brains, their obvious demonstration of intelligence that humans can relate to, and because of their willingness and ability to communicate with and contact humans in meaningful and joyful ways. I also have felt a longstanding spiritual connection with whales and dolphins, especially whales, the wisdom keepers for the planet.

Having extensive long-distance communications with the dolphins and whales was evidently not enough in the master plan of my existence. My cetacean friends had more in store for my connection with them. They were calling me to come to them in their waters and were gradually overcoming all my resistance.

Over the years I have been asked to help facilitate human/dolphin communication on dolphin swims. I declined for a number of reasons: I have had a tremendous fear of being in deep water. I couldn't even stand water splashed in my face. I was subject to horrendous motion sickness; my uninhibited retching on a boat trip out of San Francisco Bay to the Farallone Islands was heard for miles. My photosensitivity was aggravated by water reflection and precipitated migraine headaches. I was easily sunburned and extremely heat intolerant. So, I felt I would be a drag to have along on a dolphin swim....

Spirit was moving in many ways to prepare me for this journey, dissolving the barriers which kept me from swimming with the dolphins. The dolphins told me I was to trust them and that I would be able to dive into the water and swim if I went on the trip. I had learned how to swim earlier in my life, but I had so much fear and constriction while in the water that I could rarely relax and enjoy it. With the help of the dolphins before and during the trip, I got through the traumas that caused these fears and began an amazing journey.

In Miami, Florida on the afternoon of Friday, June 13th, 1997, the dolphins contacted me to relay this message to our group of travelers to start our journey:

Long transmissions from the dolphins came through on the journey. This one contained some of the richest soul food.

One day the dolphins merged deeply with me, filling the space with incredible energies. A beautiful underwater etheric music mystically echoed through the hull of the boat, which a number of people heard. Traumas were released and healed, and further telepathic deepening continued with the dolphins and human journeyers.

On the 19th the dolphins appeared at sunrise and circled the boat for over an hour with a few people observing them in awe. As they left, the dolphins instructed us all to go into the dolphin-charged waters. We felt rejuvenated, giddy with playful joy, feeling we could stay in the water forever.

At our final meeting on land, one of our group asked me to ask the dolphins this very relevant question:

"What information can the dolphins give us about what we can do to assist the ecosystem?"

Oh wow, these are the ones that came to us, the group that we got to swim with. It's the baby that is here. The baby is considered a master who has come in - a master dolphin who also carries the whale energy. This is why this baby was allowed to swim free and actually move away from it's mother for a short time in order to grasp the whole human pod as assembled. Then I get a clear picture of me still in the boat, and he said, "We didn't miss the one above who is connected with me." This baby is a master being. I see him encircled by a white light in the blue water. He continues speaking to me:

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