If you are a nature lover and enjoy taking tours to see animals in the wild, then whale-watching tours might be on your list of things to do. If you have never gone whale watching before, it can be a great experience to see these animals in the wild.
When you take whale watching tours, you can be assured that the guide knows where to find the best spots for finding each species. There are other things you can do to help ensure you will get to see these great animals. Here are some tips for having the best whale-watching experience possible.
Go The Right Time Of Year
Just like with many animals, certain species of whales are migratory, meaning they will move to warmer waters depending on the season. If you are in Alaska and want to whale watch, then your best time of year to see most species of whales is during the spring and summer months. Both humpback whales and gray whales head to Alaska during the warmer months. You can watch orca whales at almost any time of year as they don't migrate, but summer is still typically your best time.
The same is true for whale watching in warmer climates as well. Your whale watching tour company will know what you are more likely to see during the time of year you go.
Dress For The Trip
If you head to Alaska for a whale watching tour or head to Hawaii to see their marine life, you need to dress appropriately for the day.
While Alaska does get warmer in the summer months, the boat will go out far enough into the water that it can affect the temperature. It's a good idea to wear waterproof layers that will help keep you warm if the temperature is chilly and you have the ability to take off the layers when you warm up.
If you are heading to a warmer climate like Hawaii for whale watching tours, then you need to wear lighter clothing to protect against the sun. You should make sure the clothes are waterproof too.
Talk With The Crew
While you can certainly just enjoy the sights on your own, when you talk with the professionals onboard the boat, they can help give you information on the animals you see and not just the whales either. They can show you what to look for when a whale surfaces and what areas to look for other animals like sharks, seals, and porpoises too.
The more you talk with the guides and other crew, the better your experience can be. Use these tips if you're planning a whale-watching tour.
