Navidad Bank in Dominican Republic has been identified as a major breeding ground for humpback whales, thanks to a scientific voyage on 57-meter Feadship Solace. The expedition included the documentation of 513 sightings of humpback whales in a day, establishing the area as one of the world’s most important breeding grounds identified to date.
In partnership with EYOS Expeditions and Yachts for Science, the yacht welcomed researchers, scientists, and storytellers aboard. The research was led by the Dominican Republic government and supported by the Caribbean Cetacean Society, and the observations will be presented to the International Whaling Commission to better protect these populations across the region.
During scientific expeditions led by EYOS Expeditions, Solace serves as a floating hub for scientific research and observation — including using constant-speed navigation and long-range acoustic monitoring to capture continuous whale vocalizations.
“To witness this level of humpback whale activity firsthand was extraordinary, and it really underscored the importance of protecting these waters for future generations,” says Solace Captain Aaron Udall. “I’m also immensely proud of the crew of Solace, whose professionalism and enthusiasm helped make the mission such a success.”
While vessel operations ran as usual for the crew, tasks became more aligned with science. Bridge, deck, and interior worked seamlessly with the researchers — supporting continuous observations, assisting with data logging, and staying flexible to follow whale activity.
“Within hours of arriving on Navidad Bank, sightings were coming in faster than they could be logged. The deck was alive — calls of blows and breaches in every direction, whales visible 360 degrees to the horizon,” shares Jimmy White, manager of technical, science, and conservation projects at EYOS Expeditions. “It quickly became clear. This wasn’t just a good day; it was exceptional. That quiet realization, shared by everyone on board, defined the expedition."