There are many different types of whales, and they can be found in every ocean on the planet. If you're currently planning your next vacation, you should make sure to pick a destination where you have a good chance of seeing these majestic creatures. Depending on when you plan to travel, you should consider one of the following eight locations.
Vancouver Island, Canada
Vancouver Island in Canada is one of the best places to see orcas (killer whales). Orcas are actually dolphins, and they're the largest member of the dolphin family. They can grow up to 32 feet long and weigh over six tons. You can take a whale-watching tour from Victoria or Vancouver, and you're almost guaranteed to see orcas if you go between April and October.
From June onwards, you may see some beluga whales in Churchill and Tadoussac. On the other hand, Vancouver Island is also a great place to spot gray whales between March and October. These whales can grow up to 50 feet in length and weigh around 40 tons.
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores is an archipelago of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It's one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales. Sperm whales are the largest toothed predators on the planet, and they can grow up to 67 feet long. They're most commonly seen between May and October, but they can be spotted year-round.
To see the big blue whales, you should schedule your trip for April or May. The big fin whale also comes to these waters and, if you're lucky, you may see them as well. If you’ve always wanted to see some of these large whale species, start learning some Portuguese as soon as possible.
The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean. They're best known as a wildlife destination, and they're one of the best places in the world to see blue whales. Blue whales are the largest animals on the planet, and they can grow up to 100 feet long. They're most commonly seen between June and November.
Ecuador is well-known for being a budget-friendly destination, so you can save money on your accommodations and tours and use that money to see more of the Galapagos Islands. You'll have the opportunity to see other wildlife like iguanas, penguins, and sea lions in addition to whales.
Bremer Bay, Australia
Bremer Bay is a small town on the south coast of Western Australia. It's one of the best places in the world to see southern right whales. These whales can grow up to 52 feet long and weigh over 70 tons. They're usually seen between June and September, but they've been known to stick around as late as November.
On the other hand, the period between January and April is when orca, sperm, pilot whales, and sunfish come to these waters. About 5 hours away from Perth, Bremer Bay is a great place for a weekend getaway. Make sure to check out the amazing Bremer Bay tours and use the opportunity to witness some of these majestic creatures in real life!
Glacier Bay, Alaska
Glacier Bay is a national park in Alaska that's known for its glaciers and wildlife. It's one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Humpback whales can grow up to 52 feet long, and they weigh up to 80 tons. They're most commonly seen between May and September.
Alaska is also a great place to see beluga whales. Beluga whales are white whales that can grow up to 20 feet long. They're most commonly seen between June and August.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii, and it's one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Humpback whales can grow up to 52 feet long, and they weigh up to 80 tons. They're most commonly seen between December and April.
Maui is a heaven on earth when it comes to land-based whale watching. Some tours, led by marine biologists are available as well, and they are very educational. While you’re there, you could enjoy spending your time with the locals, meeting the people, the nature, and the amazing wildlife.
The Silver Bank, Dominican Republic
The Silver Bank is a marine sanctuary in the Caribbean Sea. It's one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Humpback whales can grow up to 52 feet long, and they weigh up to 80 tons. They're most commonly seen between January and March.
Both shore-based and boat-based sightings are possible. Make sure to visit somewhere between November and March if you want to see sperm whales.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, and it's one of the best places in the world to see minke whales. Minke whales are the second-smallest whale species, and they can grow up to 30 feet long.
While you're there, you could also see some dolphins, porpoises, and seals. Whales are generally easier to spot in the morning, so make sure to get out on the water early. With a little patience and luck, you're sure to see some of these amazing creatures.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best places in the world to see whales. If you're planning a trip, make sure to pick a destination and time of year when you have a good chance of seeing these amazing creatures.
Written by Nina Simons
About the Author
Nina is a digital nomad, yoga aficionado and a travel enthusiast with a distinctive taste for home decor and fashion design. She's passionate about learning new things and sharing meaningful ideas. If you wanna see what she's up to, you can find her on Twitter
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