Humpbacks and Orca Jump and Play All Day

There is nothing more breathtaking than watching humpback and orca whales jump and play around you. From late spring to later summer, May to September, you are bound to hear them blowing their spouts in the distance and slapping their tails to show off. While whales can sometimes be seen from shore, the best way to see them is from the deck of a boat.

Whether you’re out fishing for the day and happen to spot a pod, or you’re on a trip specifically designed to see the most whales, these giants of the ocean are sure to leave you awe-stricken. With an average length of 45 feet, humpback whales are best viewed from a distance. They are baleen whales which means they feed on small ocean animal like krill, but their size alone warrants keeping your distance. Make sure your camera is set to multi-shot mode so you are most likely to get a good picture!

Humpback whales spend the winter months in warm waters near the tropics and then migrate to their summer feeding grounds in Alaska.  They are typically independent foragers, but during the spring and summer when their favorite foods are abundant, small fish and krill, they can often be seen in large groups. These are the best times to see them in action!

While humpbacks are the most commonly sighted whales, you may be one of the lucky people to see a pod of Orcas.  Whereas humpbacks tend to find a food source and stay in the area, Orcas tend to travel much farther and faster. Orcas are toothed whales which feed primarily on fish and marine mammals (sea otters, seals and sea lions), and are known to have well-developed brains and social systems. Orca sightings are unpredictable, so for your best chances to see them, talk to local tour guides and experts so they can take you out or point you in the right direction (https://www.princeofwalescoc.org/charters-guides-outfitters)!