Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience in Negros Oriental, Philippines is a unique and unforgettable adventure that allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
The experience takes place in the Tañon Strait, which is known as one of the most biologically diverse marine environments in the world. Visitors can DIY (Do-It-Yourself) the Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching from Dumaguete City or get TourXP for Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching all-in Xplore Day Tour packages.
The Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching usually starts early in the morning, around 6:00 to 7:00 AM. This is because the best time to spot dolphins and whales in the Tañon Strait is during the early morning hours, when the sea is calm and the marine mammals are more active.
To begin the DIY Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience, you will need to make your way to the town of Bais, which is located approximately 45 kilometers north of Dumaguete City or 30 mins to 1 hour by bus public transport and 45 mins via private car/van. Once you arrive, you will need to register at the Bais City Tourism Office, where you will pay the fees and be assigned a boat and a tour guide. Then you will head to the Bais City Canibol Wharf a short 3.1 Km. from the Bais City Tourism Office and board the boat assigned. The boats used for the tour are equipped with life vests and other safety equipment.
The boat ride to the Tañon Strait takes approximately 30 minutes, and during this time, your guide will provide you with information about the area and the animals you are likely to see. The strait is home to several species of dolphins and whales, including spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and even the occasional humpback whale.
Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience
The Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience in Negros Oriental, Philippines offers visitors the opportunity to see a variety of marine species. Some of the most commonly seen species during the tour include:
- Spinner Dolphins – These dolphins are known for their acrobatic displays and can often be seen jumping out of the water and spinning in the air.
- Bottlenose Dolphins – These dolphins are larger than spinner dolphins and are known for their distinctive “bottle-shaped” noses.
- Risso’s Dolphins – These dolphins have a unique appearance, with a stocky body and a large, bulbous head.
- Dwarf Sperm Whales – These small whales are often seen in the area and are known for their distinctive rounded heads and short, thick bodies.
- Pygmy Killer Whales – These small whales are also commonly seen during the tour and are known for their black and white coloration.
- Melon-headed Whales – These whales have a sleek, streamlined body and are named for their distinctive, rounded heads.
- Bryde’s Whales – These medium-sized whales are known for their long, slender bodies and can often be seen swimming close to the surface of the water.
When you reach the area where the dolphins and whales are known to congregate, the boat will slow down, and you will be able to see the animals swimming and jumping in the water. The dolphins are particularly playful and often swim alongside the boat, giving you a chance to see them up close and even take photos.
After spending some time with the dolphins, the boat will head to a nearby sandbar, where you can snorkel and explore the underwater world. The water in this area is crystal clear, and you will be able to see a variety of fish and other marine life.
The entire Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching experience usually takes around three hours, and it is suitable for people of all ages and swimming abilities. However, it is important to note that the tour operates subject to the weather and sea conditions, and cancellations may occur due to safety concerns.
The Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching tour can be done as a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) tour or through a tour company like TourXP that offers all-in Xplore Day Tour packages. Here are some of the main differences between the two options:
DIY Tour:
- Freedom to plan your own itinerary and schedule.
- Lower cost as you only need to pay for transportation, boat rental, and entrance fees.
- May require more effort and time to research and arrange for transportation, boat rental, and other logistics.
- May have limited access to information about the area, marine life, and safety precautions.
- May have to rely on your own navigation and communication skills.
- Ideal for Backpackers, Budget Travelers which have more flexible time in arranging DIY
TourXP Xplore Day Tour Package:
- Convenient, hassle-free and time-efficient as the TourXP takes care of everything, with all aspects of your trip managed and arranged from transportation, boat rental, and entrance fees to tour guide, safety equipment, and meals.
- Offers a more comprehensive and educational experience as the TourXP provides knowledgeable guides who can share insights about the area, marine life, and conservation efforts.
- Offers additional activities or packages, such as side trips after the Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching, Island hopping, or hotel accommodations, that can enhance your overall experience.
- Provides more support and assistance during your trip, with a dedicated team available to address any issues or concerns.
- May have a higher cost as you are paying for the absolute convenience, expertise and personalized service of TourXP.
- Can create customizable schedules and itineraries to suit guest’s preferences.
- Ideal for large groups, family with small children, Seniors, PWD and guests that would just want to relax have a nice vacation and be free of the hassle and inconveniences of having to plan everything. TourXP will take care of everything so our guests can spend more time enjoying and relaxing as how a vacation should be.
Choosing between a DIY tour and a TourXP package for the Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching tour depends on your budget, time, and personal preferences. If you are comfortable with planning and organizing your own tour, a DIY tour may be a good option. However, if you want the most convenient, hassle free, fully customizable schedules and itineraries and educational experience with a knowledgeable tour guide, a TourXP Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching package may be worth considering.
The Bais Dolphin and Whale Watching Experience in Negros Oriental is an incredible opportunity to witness the beauty and majesty of these marine creatures in their natural habitat. With the guidance of experienced tour guides and the necessary safety equipment, you can enjoy a memorable and educational adventure that you will remember for years to come.
