Swim with sperm whales in the Caribbean on board 2026's Best Refitted Yacht

Dominica stands apart in the Caribbean. Known as the "Nature Island", this mountainous volcanic nation offers a very different charter experience to the polished beach clubs and crowded anchorages found elsewhere in the region. Here, rainforest tumbles into the sea, waterfalls emerge from hidden canyons and resident sperm whales patrol deep offshore waters year-round.

Now, guests chartering the recently refitted 57-metre Feadship Solace can experience the island in an entirely new way. Following a 10-month refit at Pendennis, which earned her Best Refitted Yacht at the World Superyacht Awards 2026, Solace arrives in the Caribbean this winter, purpose-built for exploration.

Working alongside expedition specialists EYOS and Camp Dominica, guests can combine luxury yachting with one of the world's most extraordinary wildlife encounters: swimming alongside resident sperm whales in their natural habitat.

The sperm whale experience

Unlike conventional whale-watching trips, guests depart from the yacht's private expedition platform with specialist guides, spotters and marine experts. Each expedition is led by accomplished free diver and photographer Adam Slama alongside Dominican conservation advocate Jackson Mawhinney. Together, they offer an intimate introduction to the island and its marine environment.

The waters off Dominica host one of the world's few resident populations of sperm whales, making encounters possible throughout the year. Sightings, however, depend entirely on the whales' movements, meaning itineraries remain flexible.

"We use an item called the hydrophone to find the whales," explains Slama. "We put the hydrophone into the water, listen, and get a directional point of view where they might be. Before you know it, they may well be beneath you."

Dominica's unique underwater geography makes these encounters particularly accessible. "What makes Dominica really unique is not only that we're one of two places in the world with resident sperm whale populations, but that the deep-water shelf drops off incredibly close to shore," says Mawhinney. "You really don't have to go far out at all."

Supporting the experience is Solace's 12-metre custom Windy expedition tender, equipped with Seakeeper stabilisation, covered decks and an onboard cabin. Kept ready throughout the charter, it allows guests to spend extended periods tracking whales in complete comfort.

When conditions allow, guests may enter the water under expert supervision. Floating quietly in the blue while listening to the clicks and calls of sperm whales beneath the surface is an experience few ever forget.

Along the way, guests may also encounter dolphins, pilot whales, turtles and seabirds, while flexible dining arrangements allow them to stay out on the water for as long as the wildlife encounters continue.

Beyond the whales

While sperm whales are the centrepiece, Dominica's landscapes are equally compelling. "The land portion of this trip is equally incredible," says EYOS CEO Ben Lyons.

Hidden within the rainforest, the Chaudière River Canyon rewards adventurous visitors with crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. The Syndicate Nature Trail offers the chance to spot the rare Imperial Amazon parrot, found nowhere else on Earth, while the Indian River reveals another side of the island through tranquil mangrove-lined waterways.

Further south, guests can swim through the dramatic Titou Gorge before emerging at a hidden waterfall. Meanwhile, EYOS can arrange private access to one of the island's most iconic attractions.

"We arrange for a private takeover of Syndicate waterfall," says Lyons. "You're hiking through a river and feel like you're in Jurassic Park." Known locally as "Mother and Father", the twin waterfalls offer spectacular views of Dominica's volcanic interior, with exclusive access reserved for Solace guests.

Among the most memorable experiences available is a private shamanic blessing ceremony with the Kalinago people. Through Camp Dominica's close relationships with the Kalinago community, guests can participate in a ceremony led by a shaman at a sacred waterfall. "The Kalinago tribe is the last original native tribe in the Caribbean," explains Lyons. "One of the shamans comes and blesses guests in the waterfall, dousing them with water mixed with local herbs, accompanied by music."

The ceremony offers an insight into traditions that predate European contact and adds a powerful cultural dimension to the charter. For many guests, it becomes a transformative experience that deepens their understanding of the island and its people.

Food plays a central role throughout the journey, with meals designed to immerse guests in the landscape itself. One of the highlights takes place beside the Rosalie River, where a beautifully dressed table is set directly on the sandy riverbank. Guests can swim in the river while chefs prepare meals using local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. "Guests spend time interacting with the chef and watching him cook," says Lyons. "You have this wonderful social moment."

Expect local cocktails, grilled seafood and meats, breadfruit dishes and fresh produce served in extraordinary settings. Rather than bringing guests to a restaurant by nature, the team brings dining directly into nature itself, whether beside rivers, on remote beaches or deep within the rainforest.

Camp Dominica's relationships across the island open doors to experiences unavailable through traditional tourism. The organisation has worked alongside government bodies, researchers and conservation groups to support Dominica's sperm whale sanctuary and wider marine protection efforts. Guests can dine with marine biologists, historians and local experts who provide insight into the island's conservation work, cultural heritage and future ambitions.

These conversations help connect the island's indigenous knowledge, modern conservation initiatives and ongoing efforts to protect one of the Caribbean's most remarkable natural environments.

Exploring above and below the water

Beyond whale encounters, guests can enjoy freediving, snorkelling, paddleboarding and a range of electric watersports. No previous freediving experience is required, with professional instructors introducing guests to breathing techniques before exploring volcanic reefs teeming with marine life.

The yacht's expedition tender also provides access to secluded beaches, hidden coves and dramatic stretches of coastline, while beach barbecues, local musicians and sunset cocktails create memorable endings to days spent exploring.

To enquire about chartering Solace in Dominica during winter 2026 and to begin planning your bespoke itinerary, contact the EYOS team today.

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