This Superyacht Lets You Swim With Humpback Whales — and Fund Their Future

In a world where luxury travel is increasingly defined by meaning rather than mere indulgence, a new superyacht charter is setting a powerful precedent. One that offers not only front-row access to one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles, but the chance to actively protect it.

In early 2026, EYOS Expeditions will launch a series of research-led voyages aboard Solace — a 187-foot expedition superyacht designed for guests who want their adventures to contribute to something far greater than themselves.

The experience combines ultra-luxury chartering with real-world marine science, allowing guests to swim alongside humpback whales while directly funding conservation efforts.

Swimming With Giants of the Sea

The inaugural voyage begins in February in the Dominican Republic, charting a course to Silver Bank — one of the most important humpback whale breeding grounds in the world, and one of the very few locations globally where in-water encounters are permitted.

Here, guests will witness humpback whales in their natural habitat as they migrate, mate and nurse their young. These encounters are carefully managed and conducted ethically, ensuring minimal disruption to the animals while delivering a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

But this is not a passive wildlife encounter. Aboard Solace, charter guests are joined by marine researchers from the Caribbean Cetacean Society, transforming the yacht into a floating research platform.

Using advanced hydro-acoustic technology, environmental DNA sampling and seafloor mapping, the scientists will study whale populations, deep-diving species and overall marine biodiversity. Guests gain rare behind-the-scenes insight into how modern ocean research is conducted — watching science unfold in real time, just metres from the world’s largest mammals.

Luxury With Lasting Impact

The research carried out during the expedition supports the Dominican Republic’s ambition to protect 30 per cent of its waters by 2030. Data gathered aboard Solace will be used to inform decisions on the size and placement of future marine protected areas — meaning each charter plays a tangible role in shaping the future of ocean conservation.

A portion of every charter fee is also directed towards funding ongoing research and conservation initiatives, ensuring the impact extends far beyond the voyage itself.

As EYOS Expeditions CEO Ben Lyons explains, this approach represents a fundamental shift in the world of yacht chartering — one where adventure, science and responsibility coexist seamlessly.

Life Aboard Solace

Originally built by Feadship, Solace has recently completed a comprehensive 10-month refit, emerging in September with a refined new interior by Vickers Studio. The result is a quietly luxurious aesthetic — modern, calm and elegant — with soft neutral tones and a design language that mirrors the surrounding seascape.

The yacht accommodates up to 12 guests across five beautifully appointed suites, with additional space reserved for the onboard research team. Wellness facilities include a fully equipped gym, sauna and expansive deck areas designed for both relaxation and wildlife observation.

For those seeking adrenaline between research briefings, Solace is equipped with a full suite of tenders, SeaBobs, eFoils and diving equipment, allowing guests to explore above and below the waterline in equal measure.

A New Chapter in Superyacht Travel

As luxury travellers increasingly seek depth, authenticity and impact, Solace represents a compelling evolution of the superyacht charter. It offers access not just to remote destinations, but to understanding — allowing guests to participate in the protection of some of the planet’s most fragile and awe-inspiring ecosystems.

For those who believe the greatest luxury is leaving a positive legacy, this is yachting at its most enlightened.

For further details on upcoming research-led charters, visit EYOS Expeditions.