Today we once again had to travel 30+ miles from Gloucester to find the largest concentration of whales. But the weather was perfect and once we got to the whales they were great, so hopefully no one minded the extra travel time!

We did pass by two Humpback whales on the way down to the southeast edge of Stellwagen Bank, but we didn’t stop and spend time with those whales because we wanted to get to a spot where we had reports of some larger groups.  As it turns out, however, we spent our entire time with a group of just three whales because they wouldn’t let us leave!

This group of three Humpbacks consisted of a mother and calf (“Cajun” and calf) and a third whale called “Free-fall”.  From the moment we got to them the three whales “played with the boat”.  This behavior is also aptly called “close-to-boat” behavior because it involves (not to your surprise I’m sure) the whales coming over close to the boat and investigating it and the people onboard! 

This is one of the best things you can see on a whale watch in my opinion.  Partly because you get to see the whales up MUCH closer than normal, but also because you are not simply watching the whales... you are interacting with them!

It was especially nice today because the water was very calm and very clear, which allowed us to see every inch of the whales as they swam back and forth under us.  It is safe to say that you never get such a great look at a whale as when they are playing with the boat. Just take a look at the pictures to see what I mean!

The first of the three Humpbacks to approach us was Free-fall, but Cajun’s calf was quick to follow.  Cajun herself also joined in, though briefly.  The calf became increasingly active, at some points rolling over and flipper-slapping (pounding the surface of the water with its flipper).

It was great to have a trip such as this one after traveling so far to see the whales. But like I often write in these whale sightings updates, whale watching is like all nature watching...  the more time you put into it the more you see.  Not every time you go out do you find whales close, or see activity right away.  Whale watching requires patience, but patience is usually rewarded with seeing something special.  Today exemplified that perfectly.

tJay Frontierro

7 Seas Whale Watch