With Western Australian youngsters back in school this week, there is no shortage of whales! Those who avoided the holiday crowds were treated to a whale filled 2 and a half hours! A few lucky kids were still in holiday mode and thrilled to be up ‘helping’ our skipper Dundee drive. See picture for high stoke levels!
Cruising out along the silky calm water this morning was came upon a large pod of migrating Humpbacks. Travelling at four knots the whales, which ranged from sub adults to very BIG adults, kept at a relaxed pace while we watched on in awe. The group peeled off into 3 distinct pods. Each with 7 or so whales. These whales were all tightly grouped and surfaced in synchro. A breath taking sight to witness. Occasionally a humpie got too close to its buddy so a tail throw or head lunge provided a moment of excitement between the peaceful behaviour.
We travelled with these whales until we were right out around the Cape! Lucky the beautiful summer-like weather allowed for it! We waved goodbye to these whales as they began the final leg of their journey – to Sub-antarctic feeding waters!
Our vessel turned back towards home but it wasn’t long before we found a mother and calf Southern Right Whale! We haven’t spotted this species of whale for a week or so, it was a welcomed sight! The mother lolled around on the surface like a giant hippo while the calf presumably suckled below. At times the calf would poke its rostrum (tip of the head) out of the water showing off its quickly growing callosities!
This great weather is forecast to continue throughout the week and with plentiful whales now is a GREAT time to come whale watching!
