Sat Sept 19 – Whale Watching

Close to shore and lots of dolphins and 6 humpbacks again!

Our last trip of the season turned out to be spectacular. Once again, we had unlimited visibility as we made our way past Montauk Light. The NNE winds were strong and we bounced a bit until we turned westward and headed along the shore. Early on we found a humpback, one that we’d seen 5 days earlier, as well as a group (12) of Tamanend’s bottlenose dolphins. Later we found more juvenile humpbacks that we’ve been seeing the past few trips. Predominantly searching for and feeding Atlantic menhaden (bunker). Juvenile humpbacks are those 12m (39.37 feet) or less. Typically, these are the ones found near shore.  Offshore is where we’d typically find adults, including moms and calves.  Humpback calves typically stay with mom for about 12 months. Soon the adults that are ready to mate or give birth will start heading towards the West Indies to spend the winter. Those not in the breeding/calving grounds will remain and be able to feed with much less competition from adult humpbacks. The last whale we saw began to breach repeatedly and throw its tail. As always a great way to end the trip!

6 humpback whales

12 Tamanend’s bottlenose dolphins

Thanks for a great season! We look forward to seeing everybody next spring!!

Photos available at https://drartiek-cresli.smugmug.com/CRESLI-2026-Whale-Watches/2026-09-19-Montauk-Whale-Watch