Think of the Dominican Republic, and what might spring to mind are images of perfect sandy beaches and a heaving, vibrant nightlife. But this part of the world has a great deal to offer when it comes to natural beauty, too, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Silver Bank. This submerged platform sits around sixty nautical miles north of the mainland, and, in places, the water is just sixty feet deep. At low tide, there are even coral heads that breach the water’s surface.
The Bank is perhaps best known as a meeting place for humpback whales, during an annual migration. If you’d like to witness this incredible event, then a yacht charter might be the best approach.
Why Charter a Yacht?
Chartering a yacht offers a few key advantages. Firstly, it will afford you complete freedom to explore the entire Silver Bank, including the secluded places that others might not venture to. You’ll also be able to shape your plans to suit your preferences. Whether you’d like a fast pace, a leisurely one, or something in between, a chartered yacht might provide it.
A good chartered yacht might also provide a luxury experience. You can sail through the Caribbean, enjoying the kinds of facilities you might expect from a high-end hotel, or a Michellin-starred restaurant.
The Whale-Watching Experience
The main part of your experience, of course, should be the whale-watching itself. Between December and March, you’ll be able to see these incredible animals assemble here, to mate, calve, and care for their young. On a good day, you’ll be able to witness all kinds of unique and memorable behaviours, including breaching, tail-slapping, and whalesong.
Beyond the Whales
This part of the sea also provides a chance for other activities, outside of the whales. You might move from island to island, enjoying activities like snorkelling, diving, and fishing. There are also opportunities for watersports. You could go jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking – or all of the above!
Planning Your Trip
To get the best from your yachting adventure, you’ll want to plan your trip meticulously. As we’ve mentioned, the peak season for whale-watching is winter, and thus it’s a good idea to time your charter accordingly. Make sure that you select a yacht that’s appropriate for the needs and tastes of your group, and the budget you have available.
You’ll need to pack the right clothing, along with other essential items. This might mean hats, sunglasses and t-shirts. Treat it like a summer break – and make sure that you bring sun protection. Finally, it’s important to treat the animals with respect. Don’t get close enough to disturb them. Bring a guide along, and you’ll stand the best possible chance to find the animals you’re looking for, without disrupting them.
