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[WreckWench]

NOW FEATURING THE FIRST EVER SINGLE'S WEEK AT SEA....Explorer Ventures and SingleDivers.com are proud to announce the FIRST EVER Singles at Sea and Wild Dolphin Encounter! This will be a "one of a kind adventure"!!!

NOW departing from Freeport BUT the DOLPHIN ITINERARY stays the same! (Freeport has MANY more flight options as well as MUCH cheaper FARES!!!)

And Explorer Ventures and SingleDivers.com will be hosting the FIRST EVER SINGLE'S WEEK Liveaboard!

WILD Dolphin Encounter Bahamas Trip...Bahamas Sept 20th to Sept 27th, 2008!! ONLY 18 spots! And DISCOUNTS for People Willing to Sleep Together!*


*Sleep together? Yes this boat has 2 cabins with only 1 Double/Queen bed in them therefore we are looking for a total of 3-4 people willing to share a bed in exhange for a discount of $100 per person off the upper cabin price of $1495. If a gal is willing to share one of the upper bunk single double/queen beds with me then I'll give her the $100 discount or if she wants the whole bed I'll sleep in the lobby and she can pay the regular price. If it turns out that we can't get enough gals or couples I'll stay with a guy and let him have the bed for the $1495 d/o price and I'll sleep in the lobby.

And NO...we are not a dating service but we are a bunch of friends who will work to make the rooming accommodations work out!

Join our WILD SPOTTED DOLPHIN search and diving expedition NOW LEAVING from Freeport (FPO) Bahamas, to Bimini, Cat Cay & Vicinity and Great Bahama Bank... the big-animal action and pristine walls and reefs of the Southern Bahamas! We have booked the Explorer Ventures Liveaboard for an all inclusive INCLUDING alcohol and sodas ..... Bahama's WILD Spotted Dolphin Expedition...Bahamas Sept 20 to Sept 27, 2008. Scheduling DOLPHIN searching daily in Bimini, Cat Cay & Vicinity and Grand Bahamas Bank with up to 5 dives daily, including night dives, the vessel boards in Freeport Saturday and offers up to 5 ½ days of dolphin searching and diving for a period of ONLY 2 Weeks all year on one of the top ten rated liveaboards in the world!

Click here for a full description of our our plan to find WILD DOLPHINS! Located just east and south of Florida and comprised of more than 700 islands covering 1,000 square miles of ocean, the Bahamas are an enigma - many have visited, but few appreciate their vastness, nor have a clear idea of the topographical variety of dive sites and the wide range of marine life that such a huge area can offer. From blue holes to walls, caves and shipwrecks, from shallow elkhorn coral forests to pelagics both large and small, the Bahamas offer something for everyone, both beginner and experienced diver alike. If it is relaxation that one is seeking, this island is well worth staying on for a few days. The beachfront hotels are tranquil and lovely. Nightlife is limited and everywhere outside of George Town one can find total relaxation.

Package Overview:
The 7 day all inclusive liveaboard IS the way to SEE THIS SIDE OF THE BAHAMAS & SPOTTED WILD DOLPHINS!!! For $1295* d/o (private sink/vanity but shared showers and heads) or for $1495* d/o (private in suite sink/vanity, shower, head, bath) plus airfare (see us for possible CHARTER airfares) you'll have a unique dive vacation unlike any other AND you'll be diving on very pristine sites reachable only by a liveaboard! And if you book and pay in full before August 1, 2008 you'll get an add'l $50 cash Early Bird Booking Discount** as well as your $25 SD.com premier or charter membership rebate that you can apply for after the trip! **Note this applies to full price trip payments only.

Lower Berths: 10 total with 6 requested 6 paid and 4 available in standard 2 beds per cabin configuration
Upper Berths 2 Twin Beds per Cabin: 4 total 5 requested 4 paid for with 0 available ( NO SPOTS AVAILABLE)
Upper Berths 1 Queen Bed per Cabin: 4 total in (1) DOUBLE/QUEEN BED ONLY 3 requested with 2 paid and 2 spots open (WW is taking one spot but can easily move to any other spot on the boat if someone wants this spot.)

*$1495 d/o upper berths with in suite private shower, sink/vanity, & toilet. $1395 for upper berths if SHARING A QUEEN BED or $1295 d/o lower berths with in suite sink/vanity. Use of 2 showers/heads for 5 cabins or 10 people. (There is also another shower on the dive deck.)

Who's Going...only 18 spots:
1. Kamala aka Wreck Wench - TX - TRIP PAID IN FULL: (pd $1295) UPPER Deck (cabin with only 1 bed unless a couple wants it then I'll move to lower deck or other upper deck if available) - Nitrox pd $150 - no instruction -alum 80 tank -no rental gear - waiver/survey rec'd
2. Charles aka Houston Squid - TX, PAID IN FULL, d/o Upper Berth Twin Bed Confirmed, Waiver/Survey Rec'd
3. Simon aka Shadragon - CA, d/o PAID IN FULL, Upper Berth Twin Bed Confirmed, 100 cu tank & Pony Btl, NITROX, No Airfare needed. Survey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
4. Barb aka DiverBabs FL: (PAID IN FULL), D/O, Lower Birth Twin Bed Confirmed (Will CHANGE to UPPER deck if we need her too), Nitrox, Lead #20, Arr 9/20 - Dpt 9/27, Survey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
5. Kelly aka Captain Morgan NM - D/O, Nitrox, (PAID IN FULL), Lower Berth Twin Bed ConfirmedSurvey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
6. Duncan aka Bottom Time - D/O, (PAID IN FULL) Upper Berth Twin Bed Confirmed, No Nitrox, No Gear, Survey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
7. Holly aka a_fl_mermaid - D/O, (PAID IN FULL) Lower Berth Twin Bed Confirmed, Nitrox Pd, no gear, Survey/Waiver Rec'd/EV App
8. Erik aka rock&rolldiver - D/O, Nitrox, Dep $300, Upper berth Requested but LOWER BERTH CONFIRMED, Survey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
9. Russell aka Bottom Dweller, D/O, $1495 Pd, Upper Berth Twin Confirmed, no nitrox, Survey/Waiver Rec'd
10. Lauren aka LaurenSoCal - D/O, PAID IN FULL FOR Upper Berth Shared Queen $100 discount , no instruction, gear???, NO Nitrox, Survey/Waiver/EV App Rec'd
11. Ariel aka Ariel, D/O, Lower berth Confirmed, Pd $1595, Nitrox Pd, Rent-a-Buddy Pd, Need Rental Gear & 15# lead, Survey/Waiver Rec'd - Room Midsection to minimize sea sickness
12. Dave aka Big O - D/O, PAID IN FULL, Lower Berth Twin, No Nitrox, Survey/Waiver/EV application rec'd
13. & 14. Bob aka Fordan - S/O, Upper Berth Queen, Paid In Full, Nitrox, Steel 120 if avail, no instruction, no gear, Survey Rec'd, Need Waiver, EV Application rec'd by boat
15. Dan aka Hurricane Dan, Nitrox, d/o, NEED DOCS rec'd EV Application
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Waiting On Documents (Waiver & Survey) to FINALIZE & CONFIRM Booking:



Trip Instructor:
Trip Videographer:


Check's In The Mail:

1.
2.


IF TRIP IS SOLD OUT!!! Please sign up for another SingleDivers.com Adventure!

Waitlist

1.

Very Interested but Can't Quite Commit:
1. ASDMike
2. Divingwahine
3. Scuba dew
4. Jim G
5. dolphin lover
6. Scubasis
7. Beth aka Bubbles
8. Scott aka GentDiver
9. Jen aka Scuba Jen - D/O, Upper Berth, Nitrox, Steel 100 if avail, no instruction, no gear, Need Docs & $$$

Get your TRIP DOCUMENTS here: Trip Documents


Full Details:

Price Includes:
• SD "Meet & Greet Get To Know Everyone Parties"
• 7 nights/8 days aboard the vessel
• 3 meals daily, plus between-meal dive snacks
• 5 dives daily (weather and itinerary permitting)
• All alcoholic (wine, beer and hard alcohol) and non-alcoholic beverages (sodas, juices, etc)
• SD.com T-Shirt commemorating the trip!
• Use of tanks (80cf), weights, and belts (Limited number of shorter 63cf tanks also available)
• Diving Gifts and Giveaways from various SD Vendor Partners (when avail)

Price Does Not Include:
• Airfare (we can do it for you for $25, help you with air or you can do your own. This does NOT apply to charter pkgs we do for the group.)
• Airport Transfers
• Friday evening dinner
• Rental, instruction and retail charges
• Crew/staff gratuities (usually 10-20% of your non air pkg cost)
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance (we have great pricing on trip insurance see the end of this post)
• Nitrox Upgrade of $150 per week - payable before departure
• Upgrade to Single Room $907 for Upper Deck and $712 for Lower Deck
• Departure taxes (approximately US$22 both to/from US side or $44 total and $15US on Bahamian side) - payable at airport
• Freeport Landing fee TBA
• Bahamas Port Fees (US$85) – payable on board
• $100 Fuel surcharge - payable on board (subject to change up to 30 days prior to departure)

Optional Services:

• Nitrox $150 - payable by last payment date of trip
• Single Room Upgrade $972 for Upper Deck and $842 for Lower Deck payable before departure
• SD.com private air booking service (we pass the savings onto you for a $25 service fee or you can book your own air. If we have chartered a group flight there is no add'l charge for booking. )

Note: To request air assistance or bulk air send either trips@singledivers.com or kamala@singledivers.com and we'll assist you. Please allow approx 1-2 business days for this reply back.

Airfare:
There are MANY direct flights to Freeport (FP0) in the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale and a few other Florida Cities. American, Continental and others service Freeport, Bahamas and flights are VERY REASONABLE!

Schedule: BEING UPDATED TO SHOW FREEPORT PORT OF CALL

Arrival:
Make your way to the Port Lucaya dock to board the ship at 3PM Saturday. You can drop your gear off earlier and the crew will keep an eye on it. If you experience travel difficulties and are delayed, please contact the vessel directly and notify them. (See contact numbers at end of this post.)

Days aboard Caribbean Explorer I generally involve breakfast from 7 am to 8 am (cold breakfasts are available for late risers), followed by two morning dives, lunch at 12:30 pm, two afternoon dives, dinner at 6:30 pm, and a night dive. Island shore excursions will be arranged when possible for those interested.
Please note also that this itinerary is an example only, and may change depending on weather and logistics at the Captain’s discretion. In particular since we are looking for wild animals it is not possible to guarantee seeing Dolphins but that is our objective on this trip.

Saturday: Freeport to Bimini
* 1500 Guests board the Caribbean Explorer I in Freeport, Grand Bahama
* 1830 Dinner
* 2000 Captain's briefing, documents, etc.
* 2100 Transit to Bimini

Sunday & Monday: Bimini & Vicinity
* 0730 Breakfast
* 0900 Begin diving schedule. 2 daylight dives
* 1400-1800 Look for and swim with dolphins
* 1900 Night dive
* 2030 Anchor for night, dinner

Tuesday: Bimini to Cat Cay & Vicinity
* 0600 Depart Bimini for 1.5 hour transit to Cat Cay; breakfast on arrival
* 0900 Begin diving schedule. 4 daylight dives, 1 night dive
* 2000 Anchor for night, dinner

Wednesday: Cat Cay & Vicinity
* 0730 Breakfast
* 0900 Begin diving schedule. 4 daylight dives, 1 night dive
* 2000 Anchor for night, dinner

Thursday: Cat Cay to Bimini
* 0730 Breakfast
* 0900 Begin dive schedule. 1 dive
* 1100 Depart Cat Cay for 1.5 hour transit to Bimini. Lunch underway
* 1300 Dive near Bimini
* 1430-1800 Look for and swim with dolphins
* 1900 Night dive

Friday: Bimini & Vicinity
* 0730 Breakfast
* 0900 Begin diving schedule. 1 dive
* 1100-1500 Look for and swim with dolphins
* 1600 Arrive in Freeport. Afternoon at leisure; dinner ashore, with night spent aboard vessel at dock.

Saturday: Freeport
* 0700-0830 Continental breakfast.
* 0900 Depart the Caribbean Explorer I. Should you be leaving on an afternoon flight, feel free to leave your luggage on the dock alongside the vessel until you depart; we will watch over it.
Due to the necessity of readying the vessel for our next cruise, we must strictly enforce the 0900 departure.

Departure:
The Caribbean Explorer I arrives in port midday Friday, depending on the tides. Passengers spend Friday night out on their own and have Saturday breakfast on board; there will be sufficient time to catch a flight out at any time on Saturday. If you have a flight on Saturday afternoon, you are welcome to leave your luggage on board the vessel until time to go to the airport. There is a departure tax, payable in cash, of US$15 upon leaving.

How to Book a Spot on this Trip:

1. Post in this thread that you plan to join us and your check or payment is in the mail or on it's way. Tell us what style of room you want if there is a choice for example on this trip if you want upper or lower cabins; single or double occupancy, if you need rental gear, are diving nitrox or want any instruction on the trip. Also tell us if arriving a day early or if taking your chances and arriving the day of departure. Then tell us if you are departing on Saturday or staying later. We'll then put your name on the 'check's in the mail' list. (Please send your pymt asap as we'll only hold your spot for 7 days.) Once we receive your deposit we'll move you to the "Who's Going List."
2. Fill out the Trip Rooming & Diving Survey and send it to TRIPS@SINGLEDIVERS.COM plus the SingleDivers.com Medical Liability Release and send it via fax to 214-350-2558 which you'll find under "Stuff you need to know for ALL SingleDivers.com trips & activities!" or click here to link to it. (Send a PM or an email to trips@singledivers.com for the password.) PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR SURVEYS TO KAMALA.
3. Send your deposit for the trip and/or monies due based upon the payment schedule posted in the thread/topic. If you need to make special arrangements about payments with me please contact me and I'll gladly work with you. See the forms link for our credit card authorization form. Ask for the password via trips@singledivers.com
4. If we need to know what time you are arriving, if you need rental gear, if driving or flying or how much lead you need, you MUST include this with your initial reservation post or shortly thereafter.
5. As you make progress payments we will post them in the Thread and update this first post to show we've rec'd your payment. As we receive your waivers, surveys and flight details we'll post them in the thread and then update this main post.
6. Please check the first post for trip highlights and the thread/topic for ongoing trip updates.

Discounts:
$25 rebate for SD premier or charter membership to be applied for after the trip
$50 EARLY BIRD Discount if paid in full by June 1st August 1st on full price charters only
$25 Add'l Active Member of Armed Services Discount Please be prepared to prove you are active duty.
Price includes cash discount. Please add 3% if paying via paypal or credit card.

Payment Information:
If paying via credit card (Visa or MC) download the SD Credit Card Authorization Form, complete including the 3% service charge and fax to 214-350-2558. Click here for the form.

If paying via paypal go to www.PayPal.com and send payment to kamala@singledivers.com Be sure to include the 3% fee along with your address, contact number, screen name and trip name in the details section.

If paying via check or money order, please send payment to:

Kamala Shadduck
SingleDivers.com
3957 Gaspar Ste#200
Dallas, TX 75220
214-350-7003
kamala@singledivers.com

We must have your name, address, screen name and trip name and what you are paying for in the memo section of the check or enclosed with the check to be credited properly for this trip

Payment Terms & Schedule:
ASAP: $300 deposit required to reserve a spot on the trip.

Progress Payments:
Immediately to Hold Spot: $300 Deposit
June 20, 2008: $600
July 20, 2008: $595/$395 plus any extras ie. Nitrox, Instruction, S/O Upgrade, etc

Note: Trip must be paid in full at least 60 days prior to departure.

EV Cancellation policy is as follows:
All cancellations must be made in writing and received by
90 or more days before departure 15%
89 to 60 days before departure 25%
59 to 30 days before departure 50% of package
29 days or less before departure Non-refundable

PLEASE obtain trip insurance ...it is VERY inexpensive and will protect your investment. If you have to cancel this will be the only way to get your money back as long as you cancel for covered reasons. If your flight is delayed this will pay for add'l costs to get to the boat or your trip if you can't. If you lose your luggage this will pay for rentals or replacements. You can purchase it right online as well as check quotes etc. It is very economical and you can get a free quote or purchase via the links below.

Click here for a free quote or to purchase online!

or

Click here for another provider that provides excellent rates and coverage!


Explorer Ventures Liveaboard Link Click Here

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HOW TO BE REACHED ON THE BOAT WHILE TRAVELING:

You can be reached aboard the Caribbean Explorer I from North America via satellite phone at +(TBA). Outgoing calls may also be made. Please be aware that a charge is assessed for both incoming and outgoing calls. (Not sure what the charge is.)

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OTHER INFORMATION:

Boat Amenities:
The M/V Caribbean Explorer I completely renovated in 2003, comfortably accommodates 18 passengers in 9 double staterooms, four of which have private bathroom facilities and queen-sized beds. The air-conditioned main salon on the main deck includes dining tables, TV, VCR, CD/DVD, video library, light table and lounge area. A large sundeck with lounge chairs and barbeque is located aft of the upstairs entertainment area, which includes further seating, a bar area, and storage. The dive deck is equipped with a bathroom, individual gear lockers, camera table with low pressure air hose, recharging station, air and nitrox filling stations, tank racks, freshwater shower, and a separate fresh water rinse for both scuba and underwater camera equipment. Below decks are located 5 double cabins with private sink and vanity and two shared bathrooms and showers, as well as the E-6 photo lab. There is a large central stairway accessing the dive platform, where two in-water ladders hang for easy access to and from the water. The Caribbean Explorer I is also equipped with a satellite telephone for outgoing calls worldwide.

Temperatures and Conditions:
The weather in the southern Bahamas is remarkably consistent year-round. The temperatures range from the 70’s (F) or higher in the winter months to the low 90’s during the summer, with nearly constant sea breezes. Water temperatures range from a low of about 72 degrees F in winter to a high of about 82 degrees F in summer. There is normally little appreciable current at the sites we visit, and visibility is generally between 75 and 150 feet. Most divers are comfortable with a 3 mm wetsuit in summer and a 5 mm wetsuit with hooded vest in fall, winter and spring.

Bahamas Money Matters:
Although your cruise includes all onboard meals and diving activity, you may choose to make onboard purchases from the boutique or for rentals etc. The boat accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover, travelers checks and cash. The Bahamian Dollar (equivalent in value to the U.S. dollar) is the official currency; change is often given in US Dollars if requested, and both currencies are used interchangeably. Travelers’ checks and most major credit cards are accepted widely throughout the island.

What You'll See:
More than 5% of the world's coral is found in the Bahamas; much of the water in the islands is less than 20 feet deep, allowing huge expanses of intricate reef systems. Walls abound, as well; many of the tops begin from 50 to 100 feet below the surface, and plunge to many thousands of feet. The huge area covered ensures that nearly everything found in the southern Atlantic finds its way to the Bahamas - sharks of all kinds, humpback whales, several species of dolphins, whale sharks and eagle rays and arrays of smaller creatures too numerous to list. This area offering a huge selection and variety of diving experiences, matched with an exploratory journey through an island nation spanning more than 1,000 square miles of some of the clearest ocean in the world.

Meals
Aboard the Caribbean Explorer I, evening meals usually consist of lots of fresh vegetables, rice, pasta, chicken, beef, turkey, pork, and fish. Breakfast is the usual fare of eggs, bacon, pancakes, French toast, muffins, danish and fresh fruits. Lunches vary from soup and sandwiches, burgers, pasta, assorted salads, and quiche. Homemade baked breads, cookies and brownies are offered between dives. If you have any dietary restrictions or requests, please indicate so on your application form. Please note that specific brands of drinks, dressings and foods are often unavailable in the islands, and that it can be very difficult for us to find low-fat or soy products, fresh fruit, fish, and other items common elsewhere. While we will do our best to accommodate your requests, please be realistic and consider bringing some of your own foods if the lack thereof may constitute a health risk.

What to Bring
Packing for a liveaboard trip is much easier than packing for a land-based vacation. The climate doesn’t require much more than shorts, T-shirts, and swimsuits (you may consider slacks, dress shorts or sundresses for dinner ashore). In the winter months, a sweater, long pants and windbreaker for the evenings can be a good idea. Soft luggage is recommended as it takes up very little space when empty. Sun screens, sunglasses, a visor or hat is recommended. In case of rough weather or if you have a tendency towards seasickness, come prepared with motion sickness medications or Transderm patches from your doctor. If you have favorite CD’s or DVD’s, feel free to bring them. All linens (including sheets, comforters, bath towels, hand towels, dive towels, and wash cloths) are provided on board.
If possible, pack your regulator, dive computer, mask, a swimsuit, change of clothes and toiletries in your carry-on bag. Having these few items with you will make an unexpected luggage delay far more bearable.


FAQ's & ONGOING INFORMATION FROM THE THREAD:

This section is new and will capture the info you need from the thread as it evolves. Check here periodically to stay updated!

Edited by WreckWench, 19 September 2008 - 10:27 AM.

[WreckWench]

Profile of a Spotted Dolphin Excounter

Following is a generalized profile of an encounter with wild atlantic spotted dolphins on the banks of the Bahamas. The overall approach is the same in the waters of the White Sand Ridge as it is off of Bimini; the only significant variations are due to local geography.

The first thing for any participant to understand is that this is a wild animal activity. These animals are completely wild and free, moving to their own particular rhythm through a home range that can cover many hundreds of square miles. As such, there are no guarantees of successfully finding and interacting with these animals, but years of experience support the statement that the odds of success are in the participant's favor. In spite of that, on occasion, it can happen that no dolphins are located.

The initial search for dolphins with which to attempt an interaction is very much like fishing. Sometimes the fishing is good, and finding dolphins is relatively easy; sometimes it is not, and a great deal of time can be spent on the search. In the latter case, it is important to put the necessary time into the effort, be patient, and maintain an optimistic attitude. Situations can develop very quickly, and at any moment. Rest assured that after a successful encounter, few guests linger on the time invested to make the effort a success.

Being wild animals, the spotted dolphins' behavior cannot be predicted with complete accuracy. One can never be sure of what they may find. The number of dolphins found may be as low as one or two, or climb into the dozens. Similarly, entering the water with a pod of fifteen dolphins, for example, does not mean that all those dolphins will interact. It is possible to have a small group that barely acknowledge the swimmers, or a large group that is very involved. Encounters can last from seconds to hours, and can involve anything from one to twenty five individuals, or more. One can never be sure.

Many of these uncertainties of a can be reduced by having an experienced guide. Finding and interacting successfully with dolphins is largely a matter of understanding and interpreting animal behavior. Having an experienced guide who understands the general movement patterns of the dolphins and who is able to interpret their behaviors will save time by shortening the search, and ensuring that interactions are only attempted with appropriate dolphins. If the dolphins are resting or actively feeding, for example, they are not good candidates for an interaction; to attempt an interaction would be potentially disruptive to the dolphins, and a poor use of the participant's time. Sometimes, the best way to experience the dolphins might be to not enter the water at all. It is important that the dolphins are respected, and that interactions are not disruptive. Your guide on this adventure has over ten years of direct experience with the spotted dolphins of the Bahamas, as well as with other cetacean species in other parts of the world.

With so many variables, every encounter is different, but it is possible to describe an ideal typical interaction. After the morning diving activities and lunch, the boat will cruise into the area where the dolphins are known to spend much of their time. Depending on the itinerary, this will be either the White Sand Ridge region of the Little Bahama Bank; or part of the Great Bahama Bank north of Bimini. The boat will travel slowly, between 5-8 knots, while the crew and the guests keep a watchful eye. The more eyes looking, the better are the chances of spotting dolphins! At this time, the guests should have their camera and snorkeling equipment ready for a quick call to action.

The boat slowly cruises, hoping to find dolphins, or as is often the case, hoping the dolphins find the boat. The search can take anywhere from minutes to hours. Guests watch for fins above the surface, or splashing or leaping dolphins, which can often be seen from great distances. But it often happens that by the time the guest sees the dolphins, the dolphins have already heard and responded to the boat. Dolphin enjoy riding the bow wave on boats, and upon hearing the engines underwater, will often hurry toward the boat for a bit of fun.

Once dolphins are located, all the guests are alerted. The boat slows, and a few moments are spent by the guide observing the dolphins to determine number, distribution, and overall behavior in order to determine the best approach for a successful encounter. In the meantime, the swimmers gather at the dive platform and prepare to enter the water by donning their equipment and grabbing their cameras. Typically, while this is going on, the dolphins are either riding on the bow of the boat, or slowly swimming around it. Dolphins that are eager to play may even swim to the dive platform in anticipation.

The divemaster on the dive deck will be communicating with the captain and guide on the bridge. Once the swimmers are suited up, and if the dolphins are appropriate candidates for interaction, then the boat will be put into neutral, coming to a dead stop in the water. Word will be given from the captain that all is clear for the swimmers to enter the water, and the divemaster will direct the swimmers into the water. Swimmers will want to slip into the water quickly, and as quietly as is reasonably possible. Big, noisy, giant stride entries are not the way to go in a dolphin encounter!

An important point to note here is that dolphin encounters occur from a "live boat," much like a typical drift dive. The boat is not anchored; the engines are running, and the boat will be moving around. Because of that, communication between the bridge, divemaster and swimmers is vital. Swimmers must never enter the water, or once in the water, must never approach the boat, without the clearance of the divemaster. As with other types of diving, there are simple and clear signals that are used to communicate, and that must be adhered to. The safety of the swimmers is the captain and crew's highest priority.

Once in the water, the swimmers will stay together as a loose group. This helps make it easier for the vessel to keep track of the swimmers, for the swimmers to keep track of each other, and will help keep the action focused in one area, where everyone can participate and enjoy.

And now the key point to any successful encounter: it is very important for the swimmer to realize that they can not get close to a dolphin; a dolphin has to want to get close to them. What this means is that the swimmers are not to chase, pursue, or aggressively move toward the dolphins. The swimmer does not go to the dolphin, they must allow the natural curiosity of the dolphin draw to the dolphin toward the swimmer.

In an ideal situation, an encounter is no more complicated than suiting up, slipping in, and looking around. Eager dolphins will immediately approach the swimmers for interaction. Playful dolphins will be zipping around and between the swimmers, diving toward the bottom, or shooting up in swirling groups that encircle or intermix with the individual swimmers, or the group as a whole. At this point, it’s time for the swimmers to be good playmates! Without swimming aggressively toward the dolphins, the swimmers are encouraged to dive down, twirl around, do summersaults, twist and turn, and generally cavort! If you are not an accomplished freediver, that is fine; you only need to duck under a few feet to elicit a positive response.

Sometimes the dolphins are not in a playful mood, but are still interested in an interaction. The tip here is to always try to match the energy level displayed by the dolphins. If the dolphins are high energy playmates, then so should the swimmer! If they are more mellow and languid, then the swimmer should be, too. This helps keep all of the participants, swimmers and dolphins alike, on a compatible level, and will greatly help to improve the length and quality of any encounter. Slower encounters offer some of the best opportunities for photographers, or for those interested to look into the eye of one of these peaceful companions.

The length and tempo of the encounter is entirely up to the dolphins. Sometimes encounters will last but a few fleeting moments; other times they can last for hours. But eventually, all good things come to an end, and the dolphins will start to move off. At this point, the swimmers do not pursue. It is a waste of energy, and trying to impose your will on the dolphins can be counterproductive. The swimmers relax, gather back together, and prepare to be picked up by the boat at the divemaster's direction. Once aboard, depending on the situation, guests will be directed to prepare to try again, or to relax. This is a great time to share stories, reload cameras, or simply cherish the moment.

A note on the use of SCUBA: The use of SCUBA during a dolphin encounter is generally discouraged, but is possible; there are limitations and trade offs. Before a participant will be allowed to consider the use of SCUBA, they must first engage in a few encounters with only mask, snorkel and fins. This allows the guest to observe and learn the proper procedures between the boat, divemaster, dolphins and themselves. An understanding of these elements is required to allow for the safe use of SCUBA. It is generally suggested that the first day be SCUBA free, and then the decision can be made as to whether or not SCUBA is desired or acceptable. The obvious advantage of SCUBA is the ability of the diver to stay below the surface for longer periods of time. This is especially useful for photography and videography. But the serious disadvantages are that the use of SCUBA greatly slows the reaction time and mobility of the participants and the boat. Swimmers can typically suite up to enter the water in mask and fins in a few short moments, whereas divers need much more time to gather and don their gear and safely move around. Sometimes those extra moments are the difference between success and failure. Once in the water, divers lack the freedom of movement that helps in a dynamic encounter; they can not play as freely, or ascend or descend as rapidly. Even more importantly, SCUBA greatly slows the recovery period, when swimmers are boarding the boat. In the extra time it takes to recover divers, the dolphins may move out of sight and be lost. The use of SCUBA is only possible for a few people at a time, but then everyone, guests and vessel, are affected by the limitations imposed. Recommended equipment would be smaller "pony" bottle cylinders of 20-30 cu. ft. on a simple backpack harness and regulator. These small cylinders allow for much more speed and mobility, while still allowing plenty of time underwater at the 15'-25' depths of a typical dolphin encounter.

An afternoon spent looking for and interacting with dolphins involves a bit of patience, a bit of hunting, a lot of getting in and out of the water, and a lot of fun. The Banks of the Bahamas are beautiful wilderness areas, and one never knows what they may find in their explorations. Bring a good book and a good attitude, and enjoy the ride until you find your spotted playmates.

Where we'll dive....

CAT CAY & VICINITY

Cat Wall a.k.a. The Notch
The Cat Wall is a multi level wall dive consisting of several large coral heads sitting on the edge of the Bahama Bank's secondary drop off, where the depths finally drop away to over 500'. On a sand bottom at 85'-95', these coral heads rise to a depth of 65', offering plenty of relief and mountainous vistas. Between the two largest heads is a canyon that runs over the edge of the wall as a sand chute, giving the site it's secondary name. Divers start their dive by dropping down The Notch to their maximum depth, then ascend ahead of decompression obligations to explore the shallower parts of the reef. The reef itself is washed by the warm Gulf Stream current, with outstanding biodiversity as a result. Schools of creole wrasse and bait fish of all sorts hover over the rocks, while smaller tropicals hide in the cracks and crevasses among the coral, gorgonians, and sponges. Along the wall, barrel and rope sponges thrive. Larger game fish feed along the edge here, and large black grouper, dog snapper, horse eye jacks, and king mackerel can be seen. In addition, pelagic fish like wahoo and dolphin (mahi mahi) may be seen on occasion, and at the top of the food chain, caribbean reef and hammerhead sharks are regular sightings.

Tuna Alley
Tuna Alley is a well developed primary drop off reef, where the Bahamas Bank makes it's first drop into deeper water. Offering two distinct dives, the top of the reef is at 45', with the coral dropping sharply to 85', before the gentle sand slope continues on toward the secondary drop, out of range on this dive. Nourished by the Gulf Stream current, the reef is highly decorated, and full of life. The face of the drop off is shot through with tall narrow crevasses, swim through canyons and gopher holes, all encrusted with myriad invertebrate species

Victory Reef
Victory Reef is very similar in overall description to Tuna Alley, but with average depths running 10' shallower. It is a well developed drop off reef that offers three distinct dives that start at 35' and fall away to 75', and more. Healthy corals, sponges and fish life abound in and around the many narrow canyons and crevasses. In addition to the wide variety of colorful tropical fish, turtles and sharks are sometimes sighted.

Walk In The Park
Walk In The Park is a coral head patch reef sitting on a flat sand bottom in 55'. This site is primarily comprised of three large coral heads offering 15' of relief, the largest having a large swim through tunnel. Caribbean reef sharks are commonly seen here, as well as black grouper and snapper. The reef itself has over 15 species of hard coral that can be seen by the observant diver.

Bull Run
Bull Run is a coral head patch reef sitting on a flat sand bottom in 55'. A collection of coral heads creates a natural crescent shaped amphitheater that is sometimes the site of an organized shark dive. Large black grouper, nurse sharks, caribbean reef sharks, and the occasional bull shark, which give the site it's name, frequently add excitement to the dive.

55 Heads
55 Heads is so called because it consists of many coral heads (maybe 55?) sitting on flat sand in 55' of water. With coral heads that offer 10'-15' of relief scattered in every direction, there is plenty to see and explore. Smaller tropical fish and invertebrates abound, and between the heads larger grouper, jacks, barracuda and sharks patrol.

Stevie's Wonder
Stevie's Wonder is a thriving strip of patch reef sitting on a sand bottom in 40' of water. It is home to a wide range of fish, coral, sponges and invertebrate life. It is a popular night dive.

The Wreck of the Miami
The Wreck of the Miami is the shattered and scattered remains of a commercial crew and supply boat that serviced nearby Ocean Cay. Sitting on a sand bottom in 35' of water, the Wreck of the Miami is a very popular night dive, where lobster, big eye snapper and loggerhead turtle round out the sighting list. During the day, mackerel, barracuda, jacks, and sometimes permit or african pompano can be seen, cruising between the well encrusted pieces of the wreck.

BIMINI & VICINITY

The Strip
The Strip is a small, self contained patch reef on a sand bottom in 35' of water. It is host to a variety of colorful tropical fish and schools of grunt. Eels are often seen here as well. It is a popular night dive.

Moray Alley & Little Caverns
Moray Alley and Little Caverns are two distinct sites, located near each other, that sharing the same overall profile. These dives consist of numerous scattered small to medium sized coral heads on a sloping 55'-75' sand bottom. The heads themselves are each self contained reef environments, offering a home to many colorful tropical fish, sponges, and invertebrates of all kinds. Larger predatory fish patrol between the heads, and turtles are regular visitors, too.

Bimini Barge
The Bimini Barge is a large barge situated on a flat sand bottom in 90' of water. It is host to schools of snapper, jacks and barracuda, and is visited by larger gamefish such as cubera snapper, king mackerel, and african pompano.

The Stingray Wreck
Stingray Wreck is the remains of a tugboat lying several miles up on the Great Bahama Bank, on a sand and grass bottom in 18' of water. As the most prominent feature around, it draws schools of grunts and snappers, as well as angelfish, parrotfish, and barracuda. As the name implies, the surrounding area often host numerous southern stingrays. Other gamefish drawn to the site include cubera snapper, grouper, horse eye jack, amberjack, african pompano and cobia. Sightings of numerous species of shark are also possible.

Turtle Rocks
Turtle Rocks is a mile long chain of rocks separating the shallower expanses of the Bahama Bank from the gradual slope to the drop off. Offering three distinct dives, Turtle Rocks’ sites are a collection of coral heads, rock ledges and overhangs, and sand holes. Depths range from as shallow as 15' right at the rocks, to a depth of 45' on the outer edges. The variety of terrain leads to an equal variety of life, including corals, sponges, crabs, anemones, and all types of invertebrates. In addition to an assortment of tropical fish, moray eels, caribbean reef sharks and spotted eagle rays are regularly sighted. It is a popular night dive.

The Wreck of the Sapona a.k.a. the Concrete Ship
The Wreck of the Sapona, locally referred to as the Concrete Ship, is the 85+ year old wreck of a freighter constructed of steel reinforced concrete, sitting on a hard bottom in 18' of water. The Sapona has a colorful history as a wreck, having served as a speakeasy and liquor smuggling transshipment point during Prohibition, and later as a target for practicing US bombers flying out of Homestead, FL during WWII. The remains tower out of the water above, while providing shelter for teeming schools of snapper and grunt, and a host of smaller tropicals.

[WreckWench]

Hey everyone...WOW! Talk about exciting finds at DEMA (the diving industry's annual equipment and travel show) this one is really

Explorer Ventures is offering a really unique itinerary to follow wild dolphins (the boat capt is fabulous in finding them in the wild) and allowing us a truly amazing experience... DIVING WITH DOLPHINS!

Oh yea! And diving parts of the Bahamas the normal intinerary does not cover. This trip would include Bimini, Bimini and vicinity, Bimini to Cat Cay and vicinity, Cat Cay and Great Bahama Bank.

We'll be looking for wild Atlantic spotted Dolphins...we may see one or we see dozens! We'll have a very experienced guide who will increase our odds and the dates we are looking at in mid Sept allow us to be the second group following the same intinerary therefore 'gaining knowledge from the group before us'.

The crew even 'teach you how to maximize a safe and enjoyable encounter' with these beautiful animals!

In 13 years of diving I have only had one enounter in the wild where I was able to scuba with Dolphins without them being part of a dophin show. It was the most amazing thing. They came from nowhere...they played for quite sometime and then just as quickly...disappeared. It was one of my all time best dives!

This trip sounds very cool to me...anyone else want to consider this option for Sept of 2008? (Please note that the dates available are very narrow to actively work to maximum dolphin sightings.) This trip would be in the approx $1495 range plus air and we'd fly in and out of Bimini.

12-07 UPDATE:

The dates are Sept 20-27th and we are a go! We are searcing for dolphins to maximize dolphin encounters on this trip. We will also be doing TONS of awesome diving but this trip will be great for anyone wanting to really experience dolphins in the wild!

Final booking details will be up and ready in the next week. Recall that we allow our premier members to book our trips first for 7-10 days advance booking. If you want to be one of the first to book this trip and receive a chance at free nitrox or other great perks for early bookings then upgrade to premier member now for only $35 a year and then you'll get $25 back every time you travel with us.

To Upgrade:

Go to MY CONTROLS, click on PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS under OPTIONS then follow the payment prompts. If you pay via paypal you'll be upgraded automagically. If you pay via paypal e-check you will not be upgraded until the check clears usually 4-7 days later. An admin will then manually update your account once your payment is rec'd. If you want to pay via check or credit card other than paypal, then click on POST/POSTAL and send your check or fax/email your credit card auth form and we'll upgrade you upon reciept.

For information regarding: Airlines; Passport, Departure Fees, & Customs; the North & South Island of Bimini (the Biminis); and Money, ATMs, Banks, CLICK HERE.

For more information for getting to the Bimini Blue Water Marina, where Explorer Ventures picks passengers up, CLICK HERE.

As usual thank you for supporting SD and keeping our site advertising free, spam free and predator free!


April 2008 Update: This trip is now open for booking!

[ASDmike]

This trip sounds very cool to me...anyone else want to consider this option for Sept of 2008? (Please note that the dates available are very narrow to actively work to maximum dolphin sightings.)

Yes very cool, dolphin encounters in the wild are fleeting but magical. I have had several, but only one major one under scuba in the T&Cs. And hey, don't forget some of us SDers got a little bonus time with dolphins in the RedSea...

I look forward to seeing the dates and more details!

[JimG]

I had an opportunity to snorkel with dolphins on a trip to Bimini some years ago. We weren't really "looking" for them, but the boat captain spotted a pod on our way back into the marina. He turned the boat around and advised us to get into our snorkel gear to see if they would interact with us. Boy, did they. We played around with them for about 20-30 minutes before they got bored and took off.

According to this particular captain, you usually have better luck on snorkeling with wild dolphins as opposed to SCUBA. They are naturally curious, but apparently do not like the bubbles so much. This was one time where I was glad that my snorkeling skills were up to speed. I'm not a great free diver by any stretch of the imagination, but I did well enough during this particular encounter to make me realize the value of practicing those skills.

I've done 4-5 trips to Bimini in the last 10-12 years, and it's a pretty interesting place. Not much to do topside (think Gilligan's Island), but the diving is world class. Make sure they take you down south for the diving near Cat Cay - there are some spectacular walls there. I also recommend the wreck of the Sapona (the only wreck that I have dove where you can do a penetration and still be in open water), and a night dive on The Strip (it's a dive site - really).

Also recommend that you fly in on Chalk's - that's a fun experience if you've never done it before.

[divingwahine]

Yes, yes, yes, and yes. I've been trying to get to Bimini for a few years and the single supplement just kills me. It's either that or they don't have enough people during the weeks I want to be there and they aren't running a boat.

You know, I think I've quadrupled my # of posts in just the past 2 days...

[Scuba dew]

An EV trip. This sounds awesome.

I'm interested, I'm interested.
I might have to rethink what trips to take. The Curacao trip sounded interesting also.

Maybe I can hit the jackpot on the lotto.

[nurseshark]

Im interested in this too...
Too many choices....
Looks really good so far for next year Kamala, good job!

Karen

[shadragon]

I have always wanted to see the Bimini Road for myself...

[WreckWench]

IMPORTANT UPDATE:

Got some more info and it seems that most of our encounters will be freediving or snorkeling. As mentioned the dolphins do not like our bubbles and they like to play at the surface with divers plus freediving/snorkeling allows us to move in and out of the water quicker!

In this instance...speed is important!

Based upon input so far I think this trip is a go for mid timeframe of Sept!

[JimG]

As mentioned the dolphins do not like our bubbles and they like to play at the surface with divers plus freediving/snorkeling allows us to move in and out of the water quicker!

That's the other thing I learned during the aforementioned dolphin encounter. Our captain recommended that we "slip" into the water with as little disturbance as possible, rather than doing something like a giant stride. That way the dolphins would not get spooked so easily.

Based upon input so far I think this trip is a go for mid timeframe of Sept!

Keep us posted. If the timing and finances are right, you might actually get me to go on this trip!

-JimG

[WreckWench]

As mentioned the dolphins do not like our bubbles and they like to play at the surface with divers plus freediving/snorkeling allows us to move in and out of the water quicker!

That's the other thing I learned during the aforementioned dolphin encounter. Our captain recommended that we "slip" into the water with as little disturbance as possible, rather than doing something like a giant stride. That way the dolphins would not get spooked so easily.

Based upon input so far I think this trip is a go for mid timeframe of Sept!

Keep us posted. If the timing and finances are right, you might actually get me to go on this trip!

-JimG

Hopefully all of these are finalized by next week! I want them to all fill out so we can add more!

[dolphin lover]

Hey everyone...WOW! Talk about exciting finds at DEMA (the diving industry's annual equipment and travel show) this one is really

Explorer Ventures is offering a really unique itinerary to follow wild dolphins (the boat capt is fabulous in finding them in the wild) and allowing us a truly amazing experience... DIVING WITH DOLPHINS!

Oh yea! And diving parts of the Bahamas the normal intinerary does not cover. This trip would include Bimini, Bimini and vicinity, Bimini to Cat Cay and vicinity, Cat Cay and Great Bahama Bank.

We'll be looking for wild Atlantic spotted Dolphins...we may see one or we see dozens! We'll have a very experienced guide who will increase our odds and the dates we are looking at in mid Sept allow us to be the second group following the same intinerary therefore 'gaining knowledge from the group before us'.

The crew even 'teach you how to maximize a safe and enjoyable encounter' with these beautiful animals!

In 13 years of diving I have only had one enounter in the wild where I was able to scuba with Dolphins without them being part of a dophin show. It was the most amazing thing. They came from nowhere...they played for quite sometime and then just as quickly...disappeared. It was one of my all time best dives!

This trip sounds very cool to me...anyone else want to consider this option for Sept of 2008? (Please note that the dates available are very narrow to actively work to maximum dolphin sightings.) This trip would be in the approx $1495 range plus air and we'd fly in and out of Bimini.

OK this one may beat out Curacao as all you have to say are dolphins and you have my interest. I have been to Bimini twice although not on a liveaboard and was fortunate to have a wild encounter with a pod including 2 calfs and was absolutely ecstatic. The diving there is also gorgeous and after just returning from the Australia trip with Explorer Ventures, I would definitely go on another one of their vessels.

Keep me posted,

Susie

[WreckWench]

UPDATE:

The dates are Sept 20-27th and we are a go! We are searcing for dolphins to maximize dolphin encounters on this trip. We will also be doing TONS of awesome diving but this trip will be great for anyone wanting to really experience dolphins in the wild!

Final booking details will be up and ready in the next week. Recall that we allow our premier members to book our trips first for 7-10 days advance booking. If you want to be one of the first to book this trip and receive a chance at free nitrox or other great perks for early bookings then upgrade to premier member now for only $35 a year and then you'll get $25 back every time you travel with us.

To Upgrade:

Go to MY CONTROLS, click on PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS under OPTIONS then follow the payment prompts. If you pay via paypal you'll be upgraded automagically. If you pay via paypal e-check you will not be upgraded until the check clears usually 4-7 days later. An admin will then manually update your account once your payment is rec'd. If you want to pay via check or credit card other than paypal, then click on POST/POSTAL and send your check or fax/email your credit card auth form and we'll upgrade you upon reciept.

As usual thank you for supporting SD and keeping our site advertising free, spam free and predator free!

[sandiegocarol]

I really want to go on this one. Dolphins make me smile. Count me in! I renewed my Premier membership already. Thanks!