Have you dreamed of swimming with wild dolphins in warm turquoise waters with other heart centered people?

Swim with the Wild & Friendly Dolphins

of Bimini, Bahamas

Summer Solstice 2012

The Human/Dolphin Celebration of a Lifetime

June 17-23, 2012

Swimming with wild dolphins is an incredible, life changing experience. Our wild dolphin swims offer an experience with the dolphins unlike any other. That's because Bimini, Bahamas is the best place in the world to swim with wild dolphins. The water is warm, turquoise and clear and the dolphins are friendly and playful and love to interact and play with humans... and the week we have chosen, Summer Solstice 2012, will be a powerful week for humans and dolphins alike.

While Divine Dolphin owner Sierra Goodman will be your Joy Guide and Hostess, we have no specific program on this trip other than to bask in the love and joy of the dolphins and other heart-centered people. That doesn't mean that we won't have impromptu dancing, singing, laughing and sharing gatherings. That always happens naturally and in our many years of running dolphin swim trips, we have learned that it's best not to plan anything and flow with the dolphins and the energy of Bimini.

Using snorkeling gear, we dive, glide, swim and play alongside and eye to eye with the Atlantic Spotted and Bottlenose dolphins of the Atlantic ocean, as they choose to interact with us. 

The focus of this trip is our in the water dolphin interactions and the joy, growth, and love that comes from interacting with them. Many people who swim with dolphins experience changes in their self awareness, physical and emotional healing and an opening of the heart. You may also experience feelings of bliss, emotional release and deep relaxation. We will promise you, you will have lots of fun!

Between playing and swimming with the dolphins, your human pod mates, and the intoxicating energy of Bimini and the Atlantis Road, you will leave Bimini with a new joyful perspective on life.

Sunny skies generally abound, and it is wonderful being out on a boat in the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. The dolphins continually hold their surprises, one never knows when and where they will appear. The adventures one has on each trip are beyond the imagination. 

There are many, many, things to do in this area while awaiting dolphin encounters: relax, have fun, snorkel the world-class reefs, catch some sun, bike or golf cart rentals, mangrove tours, a visit to the Healing Hole or the Fountain of Youth, dance, sing, read, whatever makes you joyful. We even spend an evening dancing to live Calypso music on Ernest Hemingway's favorite little island!

No trip to Bimini would be complete without snorkeling over the Mysterious Bimini/Atlantis Road, a quarter-mile off of Bimini. In the shallow waters lies an ancient, underwater road of stones that has baffled natives, mystics and scientists for generations. Some believe it is part of the lost continent of Atlantis. It is quite a mystical experience and many say they can feel the energy that emanates from these huge underwater stones.

We do everything we can to make you feel totally "at home" in the water. Safety and comfort are big issues with us and we will do everything possible to assure that you have a great trip.

Yoga & Dolphins - the ultimate holistic meditative retreat

We find the combination of Yoga, breathwork, meditation and wholesome healthy food, plus being and swimming with the dolphins, cruising and relaxing on the boat on the clear, warm aquamarine ocean, provides a firm holistic basis for a nurturing, rejuvenating holiday. All of this enhances the spiritual health and wellbeing of everyone who comes to join us on one of these truly magical dolphin swim retreats.

Every morning on all our dolphin swim retreats we offer optional yoga classes for all those who like an enlivening start to the day. Yoga is not only a great way to stretch, open up and tone the body, but it also encourages us to put more conscious attention into our breathing. Breathing correctly is an essential part of the holistic approach to a truly healthy lifestyle, and remembering to breathe more deeply and evenly into the lower belly helps us unwind, and increases our natural sense of wellbeing.

So . . . prepare to visit with the dolphins, as well as all the other marine life in the area. The waters here are crystal clear. You will find yourself doing more than you ever imagined! Last, and not least by any means, is people that go on dolphin trips are always very interesting, and some of your new friendships may be life-long.

PRICE OF $1695 INCLUDES:

• Sunday night hotel accommodation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
• Shuttle transfer from the hotel to the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport for island plane departure on Monday morning.
• Airport transfers on the island upon arrival on Monday morning and upon departure on Saturday morning.
• Five nights accommodation on the island.
• All meals on the island except one dinner out, to sample the local cuisine.
• Five days out on the DolphinQuest catamaran, weather permitting.
• All group activities.
• Complimentary use of kayaks. We have two single and two double kayaks.

• Your travel costs to Miami/Ft. Lauderdale.
• The island plane from Florida to Bimini - $295 round-trip including all US airport taxes.
• Sunday night dinner out in Fort Lauderdale.
• Single room and ocean view room upgrade. Call us for details.
• All individual body-work sessions.
• Rental of snorkel equipment.
• One evening meal when we go out to taste the local cuisine.
• Bahamas departure tax of $20.
• Gratuities.
• Transport from the Executive Airport to your onward destination on your return to Florida.
• Your Travel Insurance (When you reserve your space we can give you more details)

OUR RETREAT

The WildQuest Retreat which will be our home base for the week is situated in the friendly little fishing village of Porgy Bay. Light, airy and spacious, with its own bay-side terrace and mooring, it provides the ideal environment to relax and chill out after a day on the ocean. Close to the village centre (which is typically ‘Caribbean funky’), the WildQuest Retreat is also just 200 yards from a beautiful beach.

The rooms, just a few steps from the water, are clean, modern and very spacious. Previous visitors have said they found the rooms 'comfortably functional, rather than luxurious', and that has often suited their taste.  Certainly we've had many compliments.

All rooms are non-smoking, with air-conditioning and a small fridge, most with private bath. In the main house we have our dining room, and also our beautiful meditation/yoga practice room. From our terrace as well as from our bay-side rooms, the sunrise views over the bay are spectacular. The number of bay-side rooms is limited and they are available as an upgrade. Wouldn't you love to wake up with the sun rising over the bay?

The price per person of our dolphin swim retreats is based on double occupancy of each room, i.e., sharing a room with a partner, friend or another like-hearted participant. If you are bringing your family, then we will be happy to discuss your specific needs. 

There are also some private single rooms available, if you prefer not to share.

OUR BOAT: DOLPHINQUEST

Our boat, DolphinQuest is a 'Lagoon 410' sailing catamaran, and is conveniently docked right at the WildQuest Retreat Lodge.

As a catamaran, she is very stable and doesn't roll from side to side as easily as a mono hull boat. Nausea is very rare, even for those who are usually sensitive to sea-sickness. DolphinQuest provides a gentle introduction to the simple beauty of being out on the ocean. She is also very comfortable inside and out, with plenty of places to relax in the shade or sun.

There is a head (marine toilet) aboard and wide rear steps give easy entry in and out of the water.

When cruising out to meet the dolphins we will mostly be using the boat's motors, which are surprisingly quiet, but when we have sufficient breeze we will simply sail along, experiencing the power of nature.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Although our program is based in the Bahamas, you’ll need to get to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where you will spend a night before flying over to Bimini on a small island plane.

Important note: All visitors, including US and Canadian Citizens, are required to have a valid passport upon entry into the Bahamas. Please also check if you need to have a visa upon entry to the US.

Arrange your travel to Fort Lauderdale Airport or nearby Miami Airport in Florida. Arrive anytime on the first day (Sunday). Fares are sometimes lower if you fly on a Saturday, (arriving a day earlier).

The first night, Sunday night, we meet and stay at The Bahia Mar Beach Resort and Yachting Center right on the beach in Fort Lauderdale, (we can arrange extra days there if you wish to arrive earlier, or leave later).

The next morning we take the 25 minute flight to Bimini together. There will be a shuttle bus to bring you to the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport for plane departure.

After checking into your rooms in Bimini and having your first island breakfast we go out on the boat to meet the dolphins and play in the warm Caribbean ocean.

You will return to Fort Lauderdale on Saturday, arriving around 11am.

If you plan to arrive in Miami or Fort Lauderdale a day earlier or stay longer after the program and explore Florida and the Keys we can help you with hotel accommodation.

Fort Lauderdale Airport is closest to the hotel, about a 15 minute taxi ride. Many budget airlines fly into here including: Southwest, Spirit, Jet Blue, Air Tran, America West and most of the large carriers.

We fly to the island and return by island plane from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. If you are returning home via Miami Airport, it is approximately a 1-2 hour shuttle bus ride from the hotel.

When you make your reservation we will give you more information about the island plane.

We are unable to predict weather conditions and the safety and comfort of each passenger are primary considerations. Please be certain you have sea sickness medication, regardless of whether or not you have had sea sickness before.

Three nourishing meals are provided each day, with lunch usually taken onboard the boat. Our regular cuisine includes vegetarian, chicken or fish dishes, and for one evening in the week we dine out in an authentic local restaurant so that you can experience Caribbean food, culture and island music.

We have an excellent cook on our team who prepares our tasty, healthy meals, and is happy to cater for most special dietary needs. Please let us know when you make your reservation if you have any special dietary requirements.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who comes?

People from every walk of life from 3 months old to 80 years. Many women come by themselves. On average half the participants each week are women who have traveled on their own. Women experience it as a very safe and supportive program environment.

Is this adventure for you?

This is not a resort hotel or cruise ship type of experience. It is a group retreat/wilderness experience program providing a supportive and loving environment to connect with ourselves, each other, the dolphins and the ocean.

Group participants usually help out with things like the dishes, etc. It often feels like we have become a 'pod' ourselves after a couple of days. It can be a very powerful, heartfelt experience. There is laughter and tears. Many great new friendships are made. Most people have a great time during this adventure; however, it is not for everyone. If you have concerns or questions, please call or e-mail us.

The island is small and quiet with few tourists. The Islanders are open and friendly, the children are delightful.

What will the actual experience be like?

Your experience will be unique, but we often hear the words 'blissful', ’healing,’ ‘relaxing, 'meditative' and ‘life-changing.' Usually we have excellent interaction with the dolphins in the Bahamas. However, this is a wilderness experience. The dolphins are free and it is up to them as to when the connection happens; how and when they may approach, communicate and interact with you. It's a small group, so you are assured the best possible dolphin interaction. You will receive personal facilitation and support.

Will we disturb the dolphins?

Like any wilderness excursion it is important that it be undertaken with awareness and sensitivity. All Wildquest and Divine Dolphin staff are educated and experienced in the practice of 'minimal intrusion'.

Our intention is always to connect with the dolphins with respect and awareness. We do not feed, chase or do anything that might disrupt their natural behavior. Only at the dolphins' invitation do we interact with them. Respectful, educational wilderness excursions like the Divine Dolphin programs are the preference of people wishing to experience these sentient beings in their natural environment. This is an alternative to captive dolphins that live short and unnatural lives having to perform tricks and provide entertainment for their food. 

Do I have to be a good swimmer?

All levels of swimmers and non-swimmers are welcome. We provide support for those who are aquatically challenged, including snorkel instruction and a variety of flotation devices. Some people tune into the dolphins from the boat. We have supported many to move into new possibilities and enjoyment of swimming and snorkeling.

Sharks!!!

Yes there are sharks in every ocean, however since 1995 we have never had any incident with a shark during any of our programs. It seems they stay away, especially when the dolphins are present. Also the water we frequent where the dolphins live is not deep, (you can see the sandy bottom). As far as we know, there have been no reports of problems with sharks in this area.

Seasickness and Fear of the Water!

Our boat, a catamaran, is very stable compared to a monohull, and doesn't roll from side to side so nausea is very rare even for those who are usually sensitive.

We have ginger pills and juice on board to help settle the stomach if necessary. Most people who come with a 'fear' of the ocean usually manage to move through it and experience freedom from that fear with support and help from the WildQuest team. Usually we stay in the calmer waters, whichever side of the island is out of the wind. And we can be in two to four foot seas. Seasickness pills such as dramamine are easily available. And some people get a patch that can be stuck behind the ear.

What actually happens on the boat each day?

Each trip affords us the opportunity to spontaneously create the day. When we are not watching or interacting with the dolphins we may be engaged in sharing, meditation, song, silence, swimming, snorkeling, having lunch, napping, alone time or relaxing on a deserted beach. The boat has ample space to move around with lots of shade. We have found that each day has its own unique quality and reflects what the dolphins and we bring to it. A celebration!

Children?

We encourage and welcome children. We enjoy their spontaneity, as do the dolphins. There are several special Family Weeks when young children can come. The program is interactive and educational. Children from infants to teenagers blossom and gain self confidence while expanding their horizons. The Family Week is always a time for lots of laughter, play and the special connection between children, the dolphins and adults.

Could the dolphins harm me?

These are "wild" free beings. This is a wilderness experience and anything is possible of course, however in all our programs since 1995 we have never experienced a dolphin harming any one. We are more concerned about being harmed by another human being somewhere in the world than by a dolphin! This is unfortunate but true. Dolphins have shown us that they are sentient conscious beings who behave in a joyful way toward us.

SIGN UP NOW!!

This is the most popular week of the year and this trip will fill up. Reserve your space now for the Dolphin/Human Celebration of the year!

You can pay in full, you can pay half, or you can make three payments of $400 and a final payment of $495. You can pay by Paypal below or send a check to:

Divine Dolphin
21444 Marana
Mission Viejo, CA 92692

Click here for the Divine Dolphin/Wildquest Cancellation Policy for this trip.