WildQuest runs week-long retreats on Bimini in the Bahamas, built around respectful swims with wild dolphins from its catamaran. Guests stay at a bayside retreat center in Porgy Bay, and some weeks are led by yoga teachers and other facilitators, so it suits ocean lovers who want something gentle and soulful.
What it's like
WildQuest has been taking small groups to swim with wild dolphins off Bimini, in the Bahamas, since 1995. The idea is to meet dolphins in their own home, on their terms, and the whole week is shaped around slowing down to the rhythm of the ocean, the sun and the animals.
Guests stay at a retreat center on the bay in Porgy Bay, a fishing village on North Bimini. Rooms are a few steps from the water, with air conditioning, a small fridge and a private bathroom. Prices are per person based on sharing, and a limited number of single rooms and bay-side rooms with a terrace are available. Beaches are a minute's walk away.
Food is mostly organic, with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options. Expect a buffet breakfast, a packed lunch for the boat and a dinner with a vegetarian choice plus fish or chicken. One night a week the group eats out at a local restaurant, which isn't included. Because almost nothing is grown on Bimini, much of the food comes in from the US, so unusual dietary needs may mean bringing your own supplies.
The programs
The core offering is a week-long dolphin swim. Each day the group sails out on DolphinQuest, a 42-foot catamaran, to look for dolphins. Nothing is guaranteed, but WildQuest says it finds them on average 4 days out of 5, and encounters can last from a few minutes to most of a day. Guest reviews mention snorkel and free-diving coaching on board, plus time for quiet, dancing and conversation back on land.
Where does yoga come in? WildQuest doesn't run a fixed daily yoga program of its own. Instead, many weeks are hosted by outside facilitators, including yoga teachers, healers, musicians and coaches, who bring their own groups and practice. The site names Shiva Rea among the yoga teachers who've led groups here. If you're a teacher, you can book a bring-your-own-group week, and WildQuest handles rooms, food, travel logistics and daily excursions. Groups usually run to about 20 people.
Who it suits (and who it doesn't)
It suits anyone who loves the sea and wants a gentle, heart-centered week rather than a packed tour. You don't need to be a strong swimmer, as there's plenty of flotation gear and the crew is used to helping nervous swimmers. Children 12 and up can join most weeks, and younger children aged 2 to 11 can come on the summer Sacred Journey weeks.
If you want a structured yoga intensive, pick a week led by a yoga teacher or look elsewhere. And if dolphin sightings must be guaranteed, this isn't for you.
Getting there
Fly into Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or Miami (MIA). The group overnights at a partner hotel in Fort Lauderdale on Sunday, then takes a seaplane to Bimini on Monday morning, a flight of about 25 to 30 minutes. You clear customs on Bimini and take a short taxi to Porgy Bay. Weeks end on Saturday morning. Bags are limited to 30 lbs, soft-sided, and you'll need a valid passport.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
No. WildQuest has flotation devices and an experienced crew, though practicing with a mask and snorkel beforehand helps.
Will I definitely swim with dolphins?
It's not guaranteed. WildQuest says it sees dolphins on average 4 days out of 5.
Is there yoga every day?
It depends on the week. Yoga is led by visiting facilitators, so check which teacher is hosting the dates you want.
Can kids come?
Ages 12 and up are welcome on most weeks, and ages 2 to 11 on the Sacred Journey weeks from June to September.
How do I get to Bimini?
Most guests take the recommended seaplane from Fort Lauderdale on the Monday of their retreat week.
