Swim with humpback whales at Silver Bank, the largest humpback mating and calving ground on Earth and one of only a handful of places where in water encounters are allowed. Each winter 5,000 to 7,000 North Atlantic humpbacks gather over this shallow bank about 100 km north of the Dominican Republic. Multi day liveaboards from Puerto Plata bring snorkelers face to face with mothers and calves, while Samana Bay offers day boat tours, best from January to April.
Swim with humpback whales at Silver Bank, the largest humpback mating and calving ground on Earth and one of only a handful of places where in water encounters are allowed. Each winter 5,000 to 7,000 North Atlantic humpbacks gather over this shallow bank about 100 km north of the Dominican Republic. Multi day liveaboards from Puerto Plata bring snorkelers face to face with mothers and calves, while Samana Bay offers day boat tours, best from January to April.
Up to 92% sighting chance in Dominican Republic - Samana Bay / Silver Bank. Best months: March, February, January.
Yes. Silver Bank is one of only a few places worldwide where licensed in water encounters are permitted. Only snorkeling is allowed, no scuba, in small groups under strict sanctuary rules.
Whales are present from December to April. The main Silver Bank season is January to April.
A multi day Silver Bank liveaboard of 3 to 7 days typically costs from about 4,000 to 6,000 US dollars (2026 prices). Day watching tours in Samana Bay are far cheaper.
Samana Bay offers affordable day boat watching near the coast. Silver Bank, about 100 km offshore, is the protected sanctuary reached by liveaboard, where in water swims take place.
