Swim with Humpback Whales

Your journey begins as you arrive in the Dominican Republic. Whether you land in Puerto Plata or Santiago, you'll be greeted with warm tropical air and the anticipation of the adventure ahead. After check-in at our included oceanfront resort, you'll have time to settle in and relax.

In the evening, we'll gather for a special welcome dinner — your first chance to connect with James and your fellow travelers, share intentions, and begin building the sense of community that will carry us through the week.

Rest up — tomorrow, we dive deep.

We begin the day on land with a full-day immersive breathwork experience guided by James. This is more than a workshop — it's a deep dive into the history, science, and transformative potential of your own breath. Through multimedia lectures, guided sessions, and group connection, you'll explore the ancient roots of breathwork, how it shapes the human body and mind, and its powerful link to the ocean and the lives of whales.

At 5pm, we'll arrive at the marina and board the M/V Sea Hunter — our floating home for the next six nights. After settling into your cabin and getting oriented on the vessel, we'll begin our overnight crossover to the Silver Bank, a remote marine sanctuary where the whales await. Fall asleep surrounded by open ocean, ready to wake up in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.

We'll awaken at the Silver Bank, far from shore and surrounded by crystal-blue water — the protected sanctuary where thousands of humpback whales gather each winter to mate, give birth, and sing.

With snorkeling and humpback whale orientations we'll prepare for our first whale excursion. In small groups aboard tenders, we'll head out into this otherworldly environment to respectfully observe and, when conditions allow, enter the water and experience whales up close — eye to eye, breath to breath.

Back on the Sea Hunter, we'll share meals, rest, reflect, and gather for evening celebration. These early encounters often spark something deep within, and we'll create space to process and integrate what you've experienced.

This is the beginning of something unforgettable.

Each day begins with sunrise breathwork on the deck — a powerful way to tune your body and mind to the rhythm of the ocean before heading out for full days on the water, immersed in the awe-inspiring presence of humpback whales. Every outing reveals the incredible behaviors these whales are known for — from playful breaches and tail slaps to nurturing mother-calf interactions and complex whale songs that fill the sea.

Back on board, our evenings are devoted to expanding your understanding and practice of breath. Each day explores a different tradition or technique — from the slow, grounded movements of Qi Gong and the intense stillness of CO₂ tolerance training, to practical tools for airway health and myofunctional therapy, the energetic power of Kundalini kriyas, and the ancient fire of Tummo and Bon Buddhist breathing.

Delicious dinners and James' lectures with Q&As create space to go deeper. You'll learn how to apply these practices to real life — whether it's improving sleep, reducing anxiety, enhancing athletic performance, or simply reconnecting to your own inner rhythm.

Evenings wind down with moments of integration and celebration — all building toward a powerful close to our time together.

On this day we return to port, leaving behind the open ocean and the magical Silver Bank. Once ashore, we'll come together for a special farewell dinner — a chance to celebrate new friendships, share stories, and honor the deep transformation that's taken place. This evening is all about connection, gratitude, and setting intentions for the next chapter.

On this morning, we disembark from the boat, sharing heartfelt goodbyes and saying our farewells. As we say, "¡Que te vaya bien!" — wishing you well — this moment invites reflection on the incredible journey, the deep connection to the whales, new friendships, and the powerful breathwork practices you'll carry with you.

Though the retreat ends here, the transformation and connection will stay with you long after you leave.

Safe travels — and until we meet again. ¡Hasta luego!