Many travelers enjoy the more natural aspects of travel, and relish a chance to interact with the area wildlife. Whale watchers are a growing segment of vacationers, and many charter boats are eager to cater to those who are interested in seeing these mammals up close as they migrate the world’s oceans. Most hourly excursions are fairly inexpensive, but even full-fledged all-inclusive cruises provide for whale viewing as well.
Here are some of the best places to go that enable for a high percentage rate of sightings of these majestic mammals:
Alaska: You don’t have to go far in Glacier Bay to catch a whale in action, and it’s pretty common to see a dozen of them hunting together. Killer whales, humpbacks, porpoises and dolphins are plentiful here and the surrounding scenery is some of the most magnificent in the world. Plenty of other chilly weather wildlife abounds, too.
Canada: Hundreds of killer whales call the waters around Vancouver home during the summer time, and the chances of seeing one are pretty much guaranteed here. Guides are so confident they’ll spot you a whale that they offer you a free return trip if you don’t see one.
Baja: If you’re hoping to catch a peek at blue whales, the largest in the world, then you’re best off going to Baja in late winter. Gray whales are also heading down from the chilly north at this same time to breed and give birth to their calves. There’s nothing like catching a glimpse of baby and mother swimming together.
Cape Cod: Numerous charter companies will give you an up close view of popular whale feeding grounds. The famous Stellwagen Bank just a few miles off the tip of Provincetown is a whale sanctuary where humpbacks, fin whales and the rare right whales co-exist peacefully with curious visitors. You’ll find some of the best whale guides in the world leading efforts here that not only teach, but also work to preserve the habitats of these gentle creatures.
South Africa: If you’re worried about having to get into a boat to check out these majestic animals, head over to Hermanus in South Africa. Here you get the best chance to see whales while standing planted on dry land. Over 30 species of whales and dolphins can be seen here, and the area is rich in many other animals as well.