Dominica’s diverse marine life and its thriving ecosystems continue to attract and awe conservative visitors, particularly those within educational tourism. The Florida-based SeaMester study abroad program, which teaches oceanography and marine biology, has actively returned to the Nature Island every year aboard TSV Ocean Star as a testament to their visitor satisfaction with the island’s immaculate ecotourism products.
With over 320 species of fish, over 22 types of whales, four types of dolphins, and diving depths of 1000 meters, Dominica can truly magnetize those with a keen interest in the salt life. And because of the island’s deep waters, there is little turbidity making visibility excellent.
During their recent visit in November, the 18-member group enjoyed scuba diving in Dominica’s pristine waters colored by beautiful coral reefs alive with interesting fish and sea creatures. During this “wonderful and exciting trip to Dominica”, the group was pleased to see sperm whales and hike the Boiling Lake. They were also delighted with a full island tour partly sponsored by Discover Dominica Authority, which included one of their personal favorites – Trafalgar Falls.
Dominica is always one of the students’ favorite islands that we visit throughout the 80-day semester aboard the Ocean Star vessel, and this trip was no different. The students raved about their experiences here up until the very last day of program, and I am sure it will be a highlight to their family and friends now that they are home. We are looking forward to bringing our spring group back to Dominica in the new year!
Stephanie Topal, Ocean Star Program Manager, Global Expeditions Group
A positive indication of visitor satisfaction, repeat visitation by organized student groups like SeaMester causes positive word-of-mouth leading to first-time visitation. Recognizing educational tourism as a lucrative market for the destination, Discover Dominica Authority will continue to target this niche group which has great potential in attaining the overall goal of 200,000 stayover visitors by 2025.
