The curious and majestic nature of whales makes watching them an exciting tour option when traveling to coastal locales. Before embarking on a whale watching excursion, there are a few facts and tips to keep in mind to ensure a safe and successful trip.
What Happens on a Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching tours generally last 3 to 5 hours in total, and take passengers 10 to 20 miles out into the water. To get the best view of the whales, it depends on how active they are on the particular day of the tour and what kind of viewing experience a traveler is seeking.
The lower deck is the best spot to see curious whales that have swum up to the side of the boat. The upper deck will give spectators a better view of the whales as the move through the water further out in the ocean. Generally, a whale's most visible parts are its blowholes and tails, and these can be tracked through the water easily.
To enhance the experience, many whale watching companies hire naturalists and marine biologists to offer facts about whales and other sea life. Some boats are even equipped with hydrophones, which allow guests to hear the whales communicating in song below the ocean surface.
When booking a whale watching trip, the morning is the best time to go for those who get seasick because ocean waters tend to be calmer then. Though the trip is usually smooth, fast waters can get choppy as can water going through narrow channels. If it's windy out, there is a high chance of getting wet, and boat companies usually provide waterproof protective gear.
What to Wear and What to Bring on a Whale Tour
Out in the ocean, temperatures can get much colder than on land because of the wind and other factors. Dress in layers to adjust to the different climate on land versus in the water. It's also a good idea to bring a jacket or heavy coat.
Alternatively, families and groups can bring pants, sweaters and sneakers inside a waterproof container to prevent them from getting wet. When the temperature drops, slip on the warmer items. Also wear (or pack) rubber-soled shoes to prevent falling on the wet deck of the boat, and bring sunglasses to cut the glare off the surface of the water.
In addition to clothing, bringing the following items can make a whale watching tour an even more enjoyable outing:
- Binoculars. Though whales usually get close enough to the boat to see with the naked eye, whale watching tours also provide opportunities to see native birds. This is done best with binoculars.
- Sunscreen. Even if the sun is behind clouds, there is still potential for sunburns when outdoors. The surface of the water also magnifies the sun's rays and will cause a sunburn if the skin is not protected.
- Picnic-style lunch. Check with the boat company first to see if it allows outside food and beverage, or if food can be purchased on the trip. Pack foods high in carbohydrates to ward off sea sickness and make sure everyone in the group has a carb-filled breakfast to control stomach acids.
- Bottled water. Most boat companies allow whale watchers to bring their own water or other beverages to help them stay hydrated. Alcoholic beverages are usually not allowed and it is recommended that sugary drinks be avoided.
- Blanket. Because it can get so cold out on the water, especially during naturally colder months, wearing layers might not be enough. Those sensitive to temperature drops should also bring a blanket.
- Camera.Don't forget to document the experience.
- An activity. Sometimes it can take a boat 30 minutes to 2 hours to get to the whale watching location, depending on where the whales are located, the time of year and the boat's speed. Bring items to prevent boredom on the long ride.
Preparing for a Whale Watching Expedition
The most important things to remember before a whale tour are to bring warm clothing to accommodate changes in the weather, eat a hearty, carbohydrate-filled breakfast to prevent illness and to wear sunblock to protect the skin from intensified sunlight on the ocean's surface.
With just a little forethought, whale watching tours can be a one-of-a-kind vacation experience for all ages.
Sources:
Whale Watching Tips, Pinnacle Travel
Vancouver Island Whale Watching, British Columbia Tourism
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