Dolphin Research Eco-Tour: Bimini, Bahamas

  Bahamas

Dates: 16 - 21 May 2010

Description: Guests will accompany Dolphin Communication Project researcher in search of Atlantic spotted and common bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins will be observed from the boat, and when possible, under water. Guests will be able to assist in portions of the data collection, including underwater digital still photography. All swims are done with mask, snorkel and fins (no SCUBA). Rental snorkel gear is available at no charge if guests do not wish to bring their personal gear.

Guests will be staying at the locally owned and operated Sea Crest Hotel & Marina. Located in historic downtown Alice Town, this 25 room hotel offers A/C, cable TV, in-room refrigerator and fresh water showers. Please note this 3 story hotel does not have an elevator. Exact hotel is subject to availability.

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that you will see dolphins on your eco-tour - these are completely wild, free-ranging animals. However, there is over a 90% sighting success rate and over a 60% success rate for observing the dolphins under water on a daily basis. If you are uncomfortable with the possiblity of not seeing the dolphins each day, please check out our eco-tours at the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences. If you are interested in joining DCP in observing the wild dolphins of Bimini, then this trip is for you!

Anyone with an interest in dolphins and laid back island life is welcome on this trip! Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, with no exceptions. Children are welcome, however, must remain at all times, the responsibility of their accompanying adult. It is highly recommended that only children comfortable in the water join us on our dolphin trips. Comfort in and around the water for all guests is recommended. Anyone susceptible to motion sickness should take necessary precautions. All U.S. citizens are now required to present a valid passport to enter and exit the Bahamas (birth certificates are not longer accepted). Citizens of other countries should check for requirements specific to them.

Highlights:
Sunday
Morning: Arrival to Bimini & check in at hotel
Afternoon: Introductions to the group & boat briefing
Pre-sunset dolphin trip (4-5 hours)

Monday
Optional activity/free time OR Research activity/lecture
Pre-sunset dolphin trip (4-5 hours)

Tuesday
Optional activity/free time OR Research activity/lecture
Pre-sunset dolphin trip (4-5 hours)

Wednesday
Optional activity/free time OR Research activity/lecture
Pre-sunset dolphin trip (4-5 hours)

Thursday
Pre-sunset dolphin trip (4-5 hours)

Friday
Hotel check out, flight departures

Cost in US$: 1,220

Not Included in trip fee:
- Airfare
- Food
- Gratuity (boat crew, hotel housekeeping)

This Program is open to American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Bahamas Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other

Dolphin Communication Project's Mission Statement: The Dolphin Communication Project (DCP), a US non-profit organization, is focused on the dual goals of scientific research and education: we take results from research projects and disseminate them into education programs for students of all ages. DCP has a team of researchers (graduated professionals, graduate students, undergraduate interns and volunteers) who work together to examine how dolphins communicate in order to shed more light on the meaning of the interactions between individuals and groups. With access to a data archive collected since 1991, questions focus on communication among Atlantic spotted dolphins in The Bahamas, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in Japan, and common bottlenose dolphins in human care in Honduras and The Bahamas. In addition to studies of communication and behavior, DCP research associates also investigate comparisons between species, geographies, and habitats, as well as their own research topics. We are dedicated to continuing the long-term, longitudinal observations of dolphins in our four study locations.

Year Founded: 2000