The marine life continues to be incredible! Wow, what another wonderful day! Still many whales, birds, and seals offshore. The weather was overcast, but calm allowing us a comfortable ride and amazing looks at the whales.
During the morning trip the whale watch found 3 minkes, 10-12 finbacks, and 4 humpbacks. Three of the humpbacks were identified as Triton, Sedge, and Tusk. One other humpback was seen breaching in the distance. Many different birds as well including sooty shearwaters, greater shearwaters, a northern fulmar, northern gannets, and Wilson storm petrels. There were also tons of harbor porpoise and few jumping blue fin tuna.
On the second and third trip we defiantly had some close encounters. After stopping to check out a couple of spouts we found ourselves surrounded by 2 humpback whales! It was Siphon and her calf! They came right next the boat, swimming along the sides and underneath us!
Apparently this calf loves to be a show off and Siphon does not seem to mind at all. The calf was rolling over, flipper slapping, and trying out some headstands. It even spent time playing with some seaweed!
Coming up to say hello!
With the water being so calm you could see the entire body of the whale below the surface. While watching these whales another large humpback surfaced nearby, but it was to far to get a look at the tail. People were thrilled at the curious and playful behaviors of Siphon and her calf.
On the third trip we were afraid that the fog was going to be an issue, but we lucked out as the fog cleared as we headed offshore. We were able to find Siphon and her calf, but they were not alone. They had an escort whale with them this time. And oddly enough it was Canine, which was Siphon's 2005 calf. Maybe doing some sibling bonding?
Once again this calf was putting on quite a show! It approached the boat numerous times. It even breached several times near the boat! Siphon and Canine joined in the action as they started lobtailing and flipper slapping!
Throughout this amazing interaction a large thunderstorm was headed our way. Huge bolts of lighting split the sky and loud claps of thunder rumbled overhead, but this did not make anyone stray from watching these whales.
Along with the whales we saw numerous amounts of harbor porpoise, seals, and birds including northern gannets, greater shearwaters, wilson storm petrels, and even a puffin which appeared in front of the bow!
Another incredible day of experiencing some of mother nature's greatest wonders!
