Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures FAQ's
Where are the 2007 Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures being held?
For the 2007 Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures, we will be traveling to two locations, Bimini and Belize:
Who goes on these Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures?
For the most part, these retreat gatherings are designed to create a nurturing and supportive space for folks to let go, slow down, unwind, release and unfold. Ancient Stardust travelers are small groups of mature people of all ages, who share a like-minded sense of adventure and spirit. They are people you probably wouldn’t meet in any other way! Traveler's ages range between 10 and 80! We are joined by tall folks, short folks, frail folks, sturdy folks, professionals, moms and dads, and people just like you!Do I have to be a terriffic swimmer or scuba diver to participate in the Wild Dolphin ?
No. Since guest safety is always our primary concern, you will have to be comfortable in your mask, snorkel and fins. Time is allotted on the first day for folks to be checked out and practice in your snorkeling gear. That's why it is important to bring the best gear possible when you come.
You do not need to bring scuba gear or have scuba experience as this is a snorkeling trip. Many people discover that while they do not consider themselves great swimmers, by the end of the week, they are great snorkelers! Even if you can't swim, you can snorkel. We offer tow ropes or you can free swim. It's a totally organic processDo you swim with the dolphins every day?
We have a high record of dolphin encounters, averaging 2.5 hours per dolphin contact each time we went out on our 2006 trips. We typicaly swim with bottle-nose and Atlantic-spotted dolphins. There are a few dolphins that we know quite well, but like humans, some die and new ones are born to take their places!
We do not feed or touch the dolphins as we are in the wild. However, if the dolphins choose to initiate contact with you, that's great!, but we don't initate ocntact; we don't chase dolphins; they choose to be with you.Do we sail to the different dolphin locations?
No. Sailing is not an efficient way to move from location to location. So, we motor to our various sites.Where do we stay?
We’ll spend six wonderful days of living and adventuring at sea aboard the Calypso Spirit in the luscious, warm, turquoise Bahamian waters. A tri-maran (three hulls), the Calypso Spirit holds eight to ten guests. We live aboard the boat, docking in the marina each evening. By docking, you have access to bathrooms, telephones, a pool, restaurants, shops, etc. You can even sleep under the stars if you’re so inclined!How do I get to there?
You will fly into Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and take a taxi to the Ft. Lauderdale Executive Airport. Then hop aboard your charter flight with Bimini Island Air for your trip to Bimini. Our Ancient Stardust travelers get a slightly reduced rate on the charter! By Sunday afternoon, you're on the Calypso Spirit and swimming with the wild dolphins!
We suggest that you schedule your flights out of Florida after 3:00 p.m. (Eastern) Saturday to ensure that you don’t miss your flight home.
All travel and trip information is supplied in your registration packet, which is sent to you as soon as we receive your deposit.What kind of passport and visa papers are required to enter the Bahamas?
This is a foreign country and you are required to pass through customs when you arrive. However, the requirements are more relaxed than some other places.
The Bahamian government requires that you have a valid passport and a driver’s license in your possession when you land. There is no requirement for any visa papers, inoculations, etc. You also need to have $15 dollars (US dollars) in cash for the Bahamian Departure Tax when exiting the island. There is also a $45 (US dollars) per person Bahamian Eco tax that you are responsible for paying to the captain of the Calypso Spirit.What kind of money do you need in the Bahamas?
There is a Bahamian commonwealth currency of their own in the Islands, but US dollars are exchanged just as freely as their own (exchange rate is 1:1). There is really no need to exchange money if you are traveling from America.What do I do when I get to the island? How will I find the group at the airport?
Not to worry, these island airports are VERY tiny and we will find you if we haven't already flown over with you! This is where your unfoldment journey begins. The trip to your lodging is a short drive and a pleasant visual introduction to the countryside and culture. All you need to do is sit back, relax, soak in the beautiful views and begin to slow down and unwind.What should we expect not to find on Bimini?
Laura wants her guests to be completely satisfied when they return home. So, before you make a decision, it’s important to understand what you won't find on these islands. There are currently no casinos or amusement parks, no chain restaurants or big city nightclubs, and there is little need for fancy clothing. Generally, you are living in the local economy and shopping in the same places the local people use.
While in Bimini, we use one of the yacht club’s marina as our hub and are just a two-minute walk from the local Straw Market, some local shopping, the Angler (where we dance our brains out on Wednesday night), and local restaurants.What about sharks? Should I be concerned?
No. When we are out with the dolphins and other wild creatures we only see those animals. During our first night, the captain talks to us about steps taken to ensure our safety. For example, he does not allow night swimming since sharks feed at night. Additionally, one of our crew members is a marine biologist and was in charge of the world-renown shark lab on Bimini for years. She is a delight and a wonderful source of more information during your trip.Can I extend my trip by coming earlier or staying later?
Yes! You are provided the appropriate information to make extended arrangements. You are responsible for arranging your own airport pickup or drop-off if you are arriving and departing at times that differ from our time frames.
Since the price for your ground transportation and lodging for your Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures are only for the scheduled week, you are responsible for additional costs (including food, lodging, etc.) during your extended stay.What about the water and food in the Bahamas? Do I have to take precautions?
Yes! You are provided the appropriate information to make extended arrangements. You are responsible for arranging your own airport pickup or drop-off if you are arriving and departing at times that differ from our time frames.
Since the price for your ground transportation and lodging for your Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures are only for the scheduled week, you are responsible for additional costs (including food, lodging, etc.) during your extended stay.
What is not included in the package price and how much money should I bring?
Once you arrive at and board the Calypso Spirit, the cost of your Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures trip includes food, lodging, and the program. The only exception is your meal for our one night out, at an estimated cost of $25. The package does not include airfare, drinks, meals off the boat, taxi fares, unscheduled transportation, single supplement , or optional services (such as private readings).
If you plan to shop at the Straw Market for shirts, sarongs, etc., you need to make your purchases with cash or travelers checks.Can I call home from the Bahamas?
To call home while you are in the Bahamas, you can purchase an international phone card from a local merchant and use one of local pay phones. Generally, the rates for calls off the island are known to be quite high and US phone cards do not work.What about my personal safety?
Every aspect of our trip is hinged on safety and safety is Laura’s number one priority. Bimini is an extremely pleasant, friendly, and safe place. Local folks wave and acknowledge you as you pass.
It’s like setting the clock back 40 or 50 years!
The biggest threats are the mosquitoes at night and the no-seeums! But packing along bug spray and incense sticks easily solve the problem.
In the event of a storm, Ancient Stardust travelers are always placed on land.
For more information and to get a real feel for the Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures, read Laura's article,
Dolphin DancingAre there activities other than swimming with the wild dolphins?
Laura teaches you about giving and receiving sound healing, conducts guided meditations, facilitates a question and answer session, and performs affirmation work. In addition, you can snorkel and visit the shark research lab on Bimini. We also try to arrange a few other wild encounters for you!How much time will I get to spend with Laura?
Plenty! But you will have to share! During the days you're on the Wild Dolphin Energy Adventure with Laura, you will see her on a daily basis. Many natural circles form throughout the week, with Laura guiding and checking in with everyone regularly.
You will also have an opportunity to arrange for a private reading with her while you are there, at a special rate, while on the tripDo you have Wild Dolphin Energy Adventures to places besides the Bahamas?
Yes, we also visit Belize, located in the Northern Hemisphere, in Central America. In addition, Laura is always happy to explore, expand, and unfold! If you have ideas or suggestions for locations, situations etc., please contact the office.