Wed July 21- Whale Watching- Starship

The magic continues! It was another phenomenal day of whale watching aboard the Viking Starship as
we headed south to find a very active group of approximately eleven humpback whales. We
immediately encountered a tail-throwing, flipper-slapping, rolling-over calf with five to six adults in near
proximity and a few more farther out. The adults were in groups of two or three, but would come
together at times, diving and surfacing simultaneously in what was likely coordinated feeding events on
rich prey detected at depth. Most of the whales were familiar, having been seen on numerous, previous
trips throughout the summer. Multiple close approaches by the calf, associated pairs and trios occupied
our time as the whales approached and swam along the vessel, even sprinkling passengers with the
spray of their blows (exhalations). The changing angle of sunlight in late summer cast ‘rainblows’ of
these exhalations when viewed at just the right angle. The playful calf continued to travel around the
boat, rolling-over and tail throwing until finally, it was time for us to return to port. As if to say goodbye,
the calf lob-tailed at the surface as we began our transit home. So we thought! The calf then breached
clear out of the water for all to see, as 5-6 adults surfaced instantaneously, making it clear that our time
with the whales was not yet over. Subsequent close approaches by all individuals kept us out later than
normal as if the whales were not quite done with us! To top it off, we saw a seal pop up right next to the
ship as we returned to dock (a little later than usual). It was an incredible day and we now have less than
one month of trips remaining. There has never been a better season to join us. Make your reservation
and bring your friends; this season has absolutely been one for the books!

10-12 humpback whales including known individuals: Angus, Angus’ 2024 calf, Apex, Bombay, Chaise,
Four, NYC0067 (and a few more to be confirmed)1 seal of unidentified species
3-5 Cory’s shearwaters
2-5 great shearwaters
10-20 Wilson’s storm petrels