Whale watching tours are an amazing way to see some of the world’s largest animals in their natural habitat. Being prepared for your tour and knowing what to expect can make your experience a lot more enjoyable.
One of the best things about a whale watch cruise is that you can be on an open-air deck to watch the wildlife. However, you also want to be sure you’re wearing appropriate clothing for the trip.
1. The Weather
The weather in Alaska is notoriously variable, so it’s important to dress properly for any weather conditions Mother Nature throws your way. Bring multiple layers, including a waterproof outer layer and a fleece sweater or jacket for warmer temperatures. Also, don’t forget to bring a rain jacket or umbrella to keep you dry in case of a downpour while on your cruise to Alaska for whale watching.
The best time to go on a whale watching tour in Alaska is May and June, when the weather is at its driest. These months are also the best time to see humpback whales in the wild. During these months, the boats are smaller and there are fewer people competing for sightings.
Taking a cruise through Southeast Alaska on a whale watching tour is one of the most exciting things to do during your trip to Alaska. But don’t just focus on the whales; be sure to appreciate the breathtaking scenery around you as well.
There are many ways to enjoy a whale-watching tour in Alaska, from shore excursions in Ketchikan and Sitka to a full-on cruise. But before you book your Alaskan cruise, be sure to follow these 7 things to expect on your whale watching tour so you can get the most out of this spectacular experience.
2. The Wind
Windy conditions can be a real challenge on the water, especially during your whale watching tour. But there are a few things that you can do to make sure your cruise is a success!
Embark on your trip at the best time of day for smoother seas. Morning trips often have less wind, which means the ocean is calmer and easier for guests to navigate.
You can also check with your cruise ship’s naturalist for more tips on the best time to go on a whale watch. She can help you plan your itinerary so that you’re sure to see some of the magnificent marine mammals that make Alaska their home.
If you have young children, you can help them learn about the wind with a few simple activities. Start by looking at cloud shadows or holding a lighter and observing how the flame moves in the direction of the wind. You can also try blowing bubbles or making a toy parachute and see how it feels when the wind is blowing against your body. For older kids, try creating a symbolic weather vane and using it to observe the direction of the wind. You’ll have fun learning together!
3. The Seas
The seas are a big part of any whale watching excursion. These waters are full of marine life and are home to the most amazing creatures on Earth, including humpback, fin, minke, and gray whales.
Seeing a humpback whale breaching the surface of the water or even swimming directly underneath your boat can be quite a sight. If you have a camera, it can be an exciting opportunity to capture the moment.
If you are not a keen photographer, a snapshot or cell phone can also be a great way to capture the beauty of these majestic mammals. However, if you are planning to do a lot of photography on your Alaskan cruise, you will want to consider investing in a telephoto lens to ensure you get the best shots possible.
Some tours combine a whale watching tour with other popular activities in port, such as glacier hikes, wildlife safaris, or kayaking excursions. This gives guests a chance to experience more of a city than simply whale watching alone, while giving them an unforgettable experience.
4. The Boat
The boat is an important aspect of your whale watching experience. The crew will guide you on a scenic route and help you spot whales, dolphins and other wildlife. The tour also provides a great opportunity for taking photos.
The best whale watching tours have experienced staff who will share interesting stories about the marine life you see. This can make the experience even more memorable.
There are plenty of options for whale watch tours in Alaska, but some of the best are those that offer small group experiences. These tours are more affordable and offer a personalized experience.
It’s best to book your whale watching tour in advance. Tickets tend to sell out quickly in the summer months, and reserving early will secure your spot on the boat.
A reputable tour operator will respect whale watching rules and laws, and have a long track record. They’ll also follow a schedule that allows them to maximize their wildlife sightings.
The weather on your cruise will also determine your chances of spotting whales. The warm and shallow waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands attract humpback whales, which come here to breed, calve and nurse their young.
5. The Captain
One of the most important things to keep in mind on your whale watching tour is your captain. He or she is the person who is responsible for making sure your experience runs smoothly and safely.
A good captain will never yell at you to get closer, push you to split up groups or harass the animals in any way. Rather, they will be respectful and aware of how they should approach the whales to avoid any confrontations.
The captain should also have a lot of knowledge about the whales, their migration patterns and behaviour. This is something that he or she will be able to share with you and help you better understand them during your trip.
It is a very common practice on cruise ships to include a whale watching excursion as part of the cruise itinerary. The cruises often go to prime locations for spotting whales.
Despite their massive size, these majestic mammals can be difficult to see on your own, so booking a whale watching tour is the best way to increase your chances of seeing these amazing creatures. It’s also a great chance to take in the stunning scenery while soaking up some fresh ocean air!
6. The Crew
A whale watching tour isn’t complete without a knowledgeable and passionate crew. The boat captain and naturalist have a wealth of knowledge about the animals you’re seeing, their migratory patterns, and how to communicate with them.
They also know about the whales’ feeding habits, how to spot them and how to approach them when they appear. Their experience ensures you’ll have the best chance of a successful whale sighting.
* The crew is a critical component of your chances of spotting and getting up close and personal with humpback whales. Their expertise in the area, combined with their daily observations and a variety of equipment, ensures you’ll get the most out of your whale watch tour.
The crew also has access to a hydrophone to listen for whales, and they can tell you about the various sounds they make when they’re close by. These include blows and tail slaps, which are signals that humpback whales are nearby.
The crew can even point out other marine wildlife you might spot while cruising, like seals, sea lions, and bald eagles. They’ll also be happy to answer any questions you might have about the flora and fauna of Alaska.
7. The Sightings
Whether it’s a lone humpback or pod of orcas, every whale sighting is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That’s why you should be prepared to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures on your Alaskan cruise.
The best times to see whales are during the spring and summer, when they are migrating between their feeding grounds in Alaska and calving grounds in Hawaii and Baja. This epic journey is one of the most extraordinary on the planet, and watching a humpback whale breach from the deck of your Alaskan cruise ship or excursion site is a truly unforgettable experience.
For the best whale viewing opportunity, book your cruise between early May to mid June. This is when humpback whales are sighted in the Icy Strait region, as well as in Glacier Bay National Park. Orcas are also common during this time, and they can be spotted around Juneau, Ketchikan, and Seward.
