Free Diving with Dolphins -
Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How much time is spent with the Dolphins?
A. On a "Dolphin-Swim" itinerary the emphasis is on dolphins. We will spend as much time in the dolphin area as time and weather allows. However, it has been our experience that the dolphins usually come around one to three times a day with encounters that last as long as an hour. (Use of scuba with these dolphins is not allowed.)

Q. Will I need snorkeling gear?
Ans. Yes. The best way to experience the dolphins is by snorkeling with them. You should visit a local dive store and get quality mask, fins, and snorkel that fit. We also recommend a dive skin to protect you from abrasions or possible stings.

Q. Can I use scuba with the dolphins?
Ans. Researchers agree that use of scuba with these dolphins is highly discouraged and ineffective. In-water dolphin encounters also require vessel logistics that prohibit the safe use of scuba. The crew of the BOTTOM TIME II agree with this practice and, therefore, do not allow use of scuba with the dolphins.

Q. What kind of identification do I need to bring for customs?
Ans. You must have a passport or certified birth certificate. Non-U.S. citizens must check with the proper authorities for necessary documents. No person will be allowed to travel without proper identification. All U.S. citizens traveling with a birth certificate must also have a legal photo ID.

Q. Can I pay for my trip with a credit card?
Ans. Yes, however, in order to do this you need to call your card center and request that they send you a check that can be drawn on your credit card account. You would then issue the check to us as you would any other check and the charge will appear on your credit card statement just as any other charge.

Q. What personal items will I need to bring?
Ans. Please travel light and use soft luggage that can slide under a bunk bed. Dress is casual so we recommend that you bring two - three swim suits, three or four t-shirts, 2- 3 shorts, a sarong or cover up, one pair of jeans, sun hat, deck shoes, a bath towel and a couple of beach towels, seasick medication, small first aid kit with band-aids, soap, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, sun screen, extra batteries, and plenty of film. Thong type flip-flop sandals are not recommended and are considered dangerous. Please consider the season and bring clothing to be prepared for a possible change in weather.

Q. Will we be going ashore?
Ans. Yes, we normally spend one evening in port on a standard one week trip and we will also make stops at one or more deserted islands along our route.

Q. What are the accommodations like onboard?
Ans. All cabins accommodate two with a/c, reading lights, port holes, 110 volt outlets, luggage storage (under the bunks), small hanging area, double or bunk size beds, vanity and sink. Showers and toilets (heads) are located across the hall from the cabins. Bottom Time II is equipped with fresh water makers so that showering is not a problem!

Q. What is there to do in the evenings?
Ans. The star-studded skies in the islands are unpolluted and the heavens are crystal clear. You have your choice of just stargazing or you can enjoy movies, slide shows, videos of your trip, or conversation with friends in our Narcosis lounge where refreshments are available at our well-stocked bar. On our evenings in port you will enjoy the local night life and shopping in native markets.

Q. What is the food like onboard?
Ans. Our chef prepares American breakfasts with eggs, bacon, Juices, sliced fruits, and cereals. Lunch is a mixture of salads, hot and cold entrees, and plenty of side dishes that are served so not to interfere with your activities. Dinners are a blend of Caribbean and continental cuisine with a flare for fine seafood. all meals are served in plentiful quantities with seconds after all have been served. Non-carbonated beverages are served with all meals and wine is available at an extra cost. Many of our guests say that the food is worth the price of the trip!

Q. What arrangements can be made for persons having diet restrictions?
Ans. Our chef prepares excellent healthy meals in generous portions and will do his best to cater to special diet restrictions, however, it is impossible to prepare individual special meals. He will be, more than happy to prepare a vegetarian alternative or a alternate entree We do our best to see to it that your meals are as free from additives as possible and that they are fresh and wholesome. If you have food restrictions you must contact out, office at least two weeks prior to departure in order to determine if we can accommodate your specific needs!

Q. May I bring my own water, sodas, wine, beer, booze, or food?
Ans. We do not allow passengers to bring their own beverages. Our insurance requires that we have control of all alcohol on-board. We do have a well stocked bar on-board. Mixed drinks, beer, sodas, candy and wine are available for purchase on-board. If you have any special requests call our office for approval. Absolutely no coolers will be allowed on-board!

Q. What kind of beer and sodas are available for purchase onboard?
Ans. We normally have Budweiser, Miller Lite and two imports. For sodas we have Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Club Soda. Mixed drinks are available in the evenings when in-water activities are over. Wine is also available. Prices are
as follows: Sodas $.75, domestic beer $1.50, imported beer $2.50, mixed drinks and wine by the glass $3.00, candy $.75. (note: prices subject to change)

Q. How much money should I bring?
Ans. You will need cash for customs and port tax ($50-$60), bar tab, expenses incurred on land and crew tip. We suggest to bring some cash and the rest in travelers checks. Alcoholic and carbonated beverages, photo and/or video services, shipboard purchases, and gratuity are collected on-board before the end of each trip. Payment methods include cash, personal check and travelers check. Sorry, we can not accept credit cards for on-board purchases.

Q. How much tip for the crew is appropriate?
Ans. It is customary on live-aboard charters to tip the crew based on overall performance and service with 10-15% of the retail price of the trip. Of course if you want to give more, that is fine; this is only a guide line. Tips are collected by passing the hat at the end of the trip or you may include it with your bar tab.

Q. Is smoking allowed onboard?
Ans. Yes, however, it is confined to the rear of the first deck and never is smoking allowed inside the vessel.

Q. How can my family get in touch with me while I am on the trip?
Ans. There are 2 ways to contact the vessel. They can either contact our office direct and our office is in contact by ships radio daily with the Bottom Time II, and we will relay the message. Or traffic can be posted with the High-Seas Marine Operator. If you have questions call our office before departure. Note: Bk will supply you with an emergency checklist for your family or friends prior to your departure.

Q. What is the climate like in the Bahamas?
Ans. The Bahamas is known as  the land of perpetual summer! However, we do occasionally get cool weather in winter. Summer in the Bahamas is spectacular with temperature ranging from 76-85 F moderated by cool ocean breezes. Ocean temperatures vary between 78-85 F. In the winter temperatures range from 68-80 F and the sun is usually shining. Winter ocean temperatures are moderate and vary in the mid 70's. We recommend that you bring dive skins or a thin wet suit if you plan to participate in water sports.

Q. Can I bring home gifts from the islands?
Ans. Yes, however there are limits set by customs. Be sure to ask the captain about amounts and details.

Q. Do you have video services aboard.
Ans. Yes, a video of the trip encounters is prepared for viewing throughout the week as well as to take home as a memento. The purchase is optional and is available at the end of the trip to be added to your bar tab if you desire.

Q. If I drive down where can I park my car?
Ans. Parking in Ft. Lauderdale is limited and you cannot leave your vehicle at the Marina. You must contact our office for parking details.