Dwarf Minke Whale Expedition
Undersea Explorer |
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This trip is aboard Undersea Explorer, an 82 foot Mono Hull with a maximum of 19 divers. It is for 7 days, 6 nights.
Departure Information
Departure is from Princes Wharf, Port Douglas at 7:30 PM, return time 4:30 PM.
Trips depart 6/7/2008, 6/14/2008, 6/28/2008, 7/5/2008, 7/12/2008 and 7/19/2008.
The Dive
These expeditions take place in June and July, and are timed to the seasonal migration of Dwarf Minke Whales. The expedition mixes the great diving on the Ribbon Reefs with encounters with these whales. Participants use mask/fins/snorkel when near the whales, making this a great trip for non-divers. On this trip the boat cruises the Ribbon Reef areas, and upon encountering whales, the schedule is altered to take advantage of the encounter. Sometimes the whales will linger amongst divers for as long as 6 hours. Divers will make a minimum of 14 dives on this trip, but again, the whale encounters dictate the diving schedule.
The scientific research, now in its third year includes recording vocalizations of the whales and accompanying dolphins, taking photos and videos to construct database to use to identify individual whales, and studies of the interactions between whales and humans. The presence of whale experts on board provides a unique opportunity for learning and thought-provoking discussion.
The Boat
The Undersea Explorer is a purpose-built vessel, designed for adventure diving, and scientific research. Fully air conditioned, she can accommodate up to 20 passengers, along with 2 scientists and 5 crew. Cabins are twin share queen or bunk style, with 5 shared bathrooms. There are a number of large areas for group discussions, relaxing, and escape. Entry to the water is via a large hydraulic dive platform. Among the many unique features of this boat are the onboard video microscope, underwater video, hydrophone (to hear whale and dolphin sounds) and other scientific equipment. The vessel was built in 1990, and was last refit in 1995.
Trip Prices
Included
 Tanks, weights, airfills (with Dive price only)
Tea, coffee, snacks
All linen
All meals
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All prices are in
US Dollars. |
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10 Dec 07 -
onwards
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| Snorkeler |
$2,678 |
| Certified Diver |
$2,678 |
| Extras: | |
| Beer, wine, soda, on sale at bar |
- | | Environmental management charge (pay on board) per trip |
$14 | | Fuel levy (pay on board) per day |
$14 | | DAN Insurance per trip |
$15 | | Mask, Snorkel, Fins per trip |
$31 | | Wetsuit per trip |
$31 | | Torch/batteries for night dives. per trip |
$41 | | Dive computer per trip |
$45 | | Refresher course |
$51 | | BCD hire per trip |
$62 | | PADI advanced course |
$178 | | Full dive gear hire (exc. computer) per trip |
$187 |
About Undersea Explorer
Locally owned and operated, the Undersea Explorer has been in business since 1994. They offer some of the most unique dive trips in the area, and have made a strong commitment to both education and research on the Great Barrier Reef. Often booked well in advance, their dive trips are quite popular with both Australian and overseas divers.
We at Divethereef.com can get excited about this operation. As educators and adventurers, we like the opportunities Undersea Explorer creates for its guests to interact with scientists and actively participate in scientific research. In addition, the boat and equipment are maintained and dutifully cared for. Finally, whenever we ask divers who have gone out with the Undersea Explorer, and we’ve spoken to a lot of them, we always hear the same great reviews.
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