FRI Aug 30- Whale Watching- Star

For the last trip of August, the whales (and waves) had us working a bit harder than usual, reminding us
of the changing seasons and the fortunes previously bestowed upon us throughout this summer. We
headed south towards the general area where the humpbacks have previously been encountered, but
there were no whales to be found. We did enjoy views of Cory’s and Great shearwaters, and of Wilson
storm petrels flying and hunting while we searched. Winds made spotting of blows difficult so we didn’t
find the whales until we were much closer to them than usual (less than half a mile) but that was when
we realized that not only did we find them, there were 8-10 to be found! These were all humpbacks, at
first moving quickly in all directions around and beyond the vessel. Capt. JR expertly brought us to an
area where viewing could be best had of three associated pairs and a surface-active calf all at once. The
calf stole everyone’s attention, though, with his displays of spy-hopping, pectoral flipper slapping, tail
throws, roll-overs, and inverted lob tailing. The young whale also partook in a behavior I refer to as
‘sailing’, bringing his tail flukes out of the water in a ‘handstand’ position and holding it there for a
minute or so. The adults, meanwhile, were likely feeding at depth, moving in coordinated pairs, diving,
and surfacing in tandem. A close approach of one of these pairs provided excellent views for the
passengers to enjoy. Several breaches were also observed both around and beyond the vessel, while
glimpses of dolphins and tuna were briefly shared by the sea, as if trying to keep them a secret. A minke
whale was also briefly spotted in the mix before making our return home. Only six trips remain in what
everyone agrees has been our best season ever; come join us one of these adventures before the
season wraps up for good.

8-10 humpback whales
1 minke whale
10-20 dolphins of unknown species
Small school of large tuna, undetermined species but possibly bluefin
20-30 Cory’s shearwaters
25-35 Wilson’s storm petrels
1 Great shearwater