Did you know that the summer months are an excellent time to see humpback whales in the Salish Sea? Whales venturing from their breeding grounds in Hawaii, Mexico, and even Central America head to the nutrient-rich waters of Washington State and British Columbia, Canada to have a summer-long feeding fest.
In recent weeks, we have seen a large number of humpback whales, with some trips spotting 10 or more individuals on a single tour! We asked PSE Naturalist Brooke to share a few details of a recent encounter she had on a tour from our Port Townsend location:
Our morning tour out of Port Townsend on Sunday, 7/19, ventured out west in calm seas and blue skies. We found ourselves in Canada just south of the Race Rocks lighthouse. We spent time with two humpback whales, Split Fin (BCZ0298) + Meqe’ (BCZ0492). They met up together after a breach and some chin slapping from Meqe’! Was he calling his friend over? We can never know for sure, but the two male humpbacks proceeded to slap their pectoral fins at the surface together several times before carrying on. Another incredible adventure on the water!
Having the chance to witness the social behaviors of these incredible creatures is something that we’ll never get sick of!
If you’re ready to join us for an adventure on the water, tours depart daily from our locations in Seattle (Edmonds), Port Townsend, and Port Angeles. For more information or to book, click here!
