Because the whales love to winter in the Hawaiian waters, the state has designated specific areas as a National Marine Sanctuary for Humpback Whales. This helps keep the whales safe and offers them a place of protection to return to each year. Several programs have been established over the years to help teach the historical and cultural importance of whales. One of these programs is the Sanctuary Ocean Count of Humpback Whales conducted only in February. This program helps to provide a relative approximation of humpback whale numbers and distribution patterns locally and helps to raise awareness of the species. We will assist the foundation in conducting an afternoon count at a designated North Shore point. We also have our own in-house Marine Biologist, Captain Paul Clark that will provide further in-depth information to our group on these graceful sea mammals, plus introduce us to other whale species in the Hawaiian Islands. Captain Paul will then lead us on our own whale watching expedition abroad a Zodiac boat. These boats provide an adventure in itself as we zip across the ocean surface at great speed. If you’ve never experienced this ride, hold on to your hat.

Because this is an exclusive Soul and Sport Ventures™ trip, we have the freedom to explore ocean caves and search out different whale pods, where we have the opportunity to observe and interact with these magnificent creatures in an intimate setting. Watch as they play with each other, slapping their flukes on the water and launching themselves high in the air which is also known as “breaching”. With a final slap of their tail they dive back down into the deep depths of the ocean. Captain Paul will explain their curious behaviors and immerse a hydrophone to allow us to listen to the captivating underwater “whale song” of these ocean giants. We will also take this opportunity to visit a remote fishing village and the forbidden island of Niihau. This indeed is a rare experience not to be missed. As with all Soul and Sport Ventures™ retreats, you will also engage in an array of other activities such as, but not limited to: hiking, snorkeling, surfing, yoga, meditation and our favorite sport, stand-up paddling. Enjoy full days of fun, adventure, good friends, great food and of course kick-back “island-style" living. Please email or call us for a complete itinerary or questions regarding this trip.

Instructions for all activities are carefully explained with emphasis on safety and understanding.
Note: Itinerary and activities subject to change at Soul and Sport Ventures™ discretion due to weather and other contingencies outside of our control.

This retreat may include, but is not limited to the following activities:

• Surfing
• Stand-up Paddling
• Outrigger Canoe
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Hiking
• Snorkel
• Kayaking
• Catamaran
• Sunbathing and Shelling
• Hawaiian Culture
• Journaling
• Surprise guest speakers