What is a trip to California’s Monterey Bay without going on a whale watching expedition? It would be incomplete! Randy and I headed out with Sanctuary Cruises, and we were not disappointed.
It is the time of year for whales to migrate south along the Pacific Coast, and during the summer months Monterey Bay has more than it’s share of marine mammals. I cannot begin to count the number of Humpback Whales we saw! Sanctuary Cruises carries a Marine Biologist on board for every cruise so you can learn about the whales, the bay, and other marine animals. I LOVED it! We were barely out of the marina when we began seeing Humpbacks! What a thrill! They are immense creatures, and we were lucky enough to see mothers and babies, and groups of 2 or 3 whales together.
Our marine biologist, Doris, called the groups of male seals around the whales “gangs”, and the term is certainly apt. Look at the size difference in size between these seals and a whale tail! The seals were so fast, and whenever a group of them came into view, the whales followed.
Humpbacks do not have teeth, they are filter feeders, basically. They have baleen to filter out the water from the krill they eat. Isn’t it interesting that the world’s largest creatures feed on the smallest ones?
The trip was so exciting that I stood on the edge of the boat the whole time, just waiting and looking for them. When I returned from the trip, my feet and legs were absolutely killing me. I didn’t feel the pain while the whales were around, but by the evening I was limping. It was worth it!
Next time, I’ll be kayaking the bay with whales!
I want to do that! I don’t know how you took the photos and watched at the same time! How absolutely thrilling! Was the sea rough? I get seasick…
Suzanne Stavert recently posted…Chocolatour: A Quest for the World’s Best Chocolate
It wasn’t particularly rough, but you’d need dramamine for sure. Even I took it. I watched, and took photos, then watched….. I have to get out there in a kayak!!!!! Incredible! Come with me!
Tam Warner recently posted…Whale Watching in Monterey Bay!!!
This looks incredibly fun and you got some epic photos! I’m not sure I’d want to be out there in one of those little kayaks when a whale tail splashes down. Thanks for the information on this fun excursion!
Michelle recently posted…My Alaska Cruise Ports of Call – Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan
they know what is around them….it’s amazing, all those seals were right on top of them when they dove, and not one was hurt or hit. Neither were the kayakers! I’m totally up for it! Thanks for taking a look at my whale tales!
Tam Warner recently posted…Whale Watching in Monterey Bay!!!
Though I’m a local (S.F.), I’ve never whale-watched on the bay. I’ve heard too much about barfing over the side from the rough waters. Sounds like you had a much better experience. Thanks for taking me along!
Carole Terwilliger Meyers recently posted…Sights to See: Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, North Wildwood, New Jersey
Have you seen whales off of land? For the boat you just need dramamine. It’s worth it, but take the non drowsy formula or you’ll miss the whales!
Tam Warner recently posted…Fabulous Photos Friday: California, continued!