The Turks & Caicos Islands is one of the most magical places in the world to see and swim with humpback whales. Not only are the archipelago’s waters warm year-round—which makes for a more pleasant swim with the whales—but they are unbelievably clear, allowing you to see well beyond the surface. Humpback whales are the most common whales that the Turks & Caicos Islands welcome year after year. Other species have been spotted in the deep water off the islands’ coasts, including killer whales. However, these sightings are quite rare.
Where can I see whales in Turks & Caicos?
While humpback whales are spotted in the waters off Providenciales, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay annually, Salt Cay is the best place to see them.
This small island is the easternmost in the Turks & Caicos archipelago. It is right on the edge of the Columbus Passage, a very deep channel of water—at least 7,000 feet, according to NASA—that humpback whales use to access warm Caribbean waters.
Grand Turk, directly on the opposite side of the passage, is the next best place. There are several charter operations between these islands that our concierge team at Sunset Beach Villas can liaise with to organize your whale watching experience. These include Crystal Seas Adventures and Salt Cay Divers on Salt Cay and Deep Blue Charters on Grand Turk.
The best place to see humpback whales near Providenciales is on the western coasts of Provo and West Caicos. Specifically, whales tend to hang around the waters off the Northwest Point and West Caicos Marine National Parks. Jedi Charters and Big Blue Collective both offer whale-watching tours around Providenciales.
When is the best time to see humpback whales in Turks & Caicos?
Humpback whales migrate to the Turks & Caicos islands in late January and begin returning to northern fertile waters at the beginning of March. They come here to breed, give birth, and raise their young. Whale watching in Turks & Caicos is a treat—it’s not uncommon to spot a mother and her playful calf carving their way through the crystal-clear waters off Providenciales, Grand Turk, or Salt Cay.
If whale-watching in Turks & Caicos is at the top of your bucket list, plan to visit at the height of the humpback migration season in February.
Can I swim with humpback whales in Turks & Caicos?
Yes, it is possible to swim with humpback whales in Turks & Caicos. Many travellers return home with beautiful memories, and sometimes photos, of their swims and dives with humpback whales.
However, note that swimming is up to the discretion of the charter company and boat captain. Many operators practice low-impact tourism—that means that they act in the best interest of the animal under the circumstances.
Book Sunset Beach Villas as Your Launch Point for Whale Watching in Turks & Caicos
Sunset Beach Villas is an exclusive collection of luxurious private villas on the northeastern tip of Providenciales. These luxury villas are just minutes away from the marinas of Leeward. Our concierge team can organize a private tour on any of these three islands to introduce you to these gentle giants. Call us today to book your villa and whale-watching experience.
Photo credit Deep Blue Charters
