Taking the plunge: whale-watching in Punta Cana

Majestic mammals: whale-watching season arrives along the Dominican Republic’s Samana Peninsula mid-January. Credit: Mike Baird.

By Jennifer Olvera

When the holidays become a distant memory, it’s natural to look toward brighter days. Thankfully, around mid-January, Humpback whale season kicks off — and continues through mid-March — near the Dominican Republic’s Samana Peninsula, one of the world’s most fabled destinations to spot the massive, knobby-headed mammals at a time when they give birth. It’s also when visitors are quite likely to see the activespecies breach out of the water.

When planning a vacation to the Dominican Republic this time of year, Punta Cana hotels are a wise choice since there are many whale-watching tour operators in the area to choose from. Victoria Marine/Whale Samana carries 50- to-80 passengers on the Victoria II, often with whale expert and founder Kim Beddall leading the charge. She’ll teach enthusiasts about whale behaviors — be it flippering or rolling — and she’ll decode their haunting songs.

Tour Samana with Terry is another solid choice for four- to-five-hour whale-watching excursions. Participants motor along the scenic, mountain-fringed bay past Cayo Levantado Island, sipping beer or soda along the way. Post whale-sighting, there’s time to chill on a private-feeling beach.

Another option to consider is the whale outings offered by Razor Tours, a tour operator providing ATV, ziplineand jungle excursions in addition to boat rides that set out in search of the majestic creatures. Drinks are served on board, which is nice. Even better, though, is the likelihood fod photo ops: passengers can all-but-expect to get within meters of humpbacks.

Whichever you choose, consider stays at hotels like Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe for all-inclusive luxury or The PUNTACANA Hotel as a more budget-friendly, but pleasant, alternative.

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Jennifer Olvera is a Chicago-based author, editor and food enthusiast, who travels often – usually in search of her next great meal.

Tagged: Caribbean