Whales are one of those creatures that humans cannot seem to get enough of, and for good reason. They are huge, reaching over 100 feet in length in some cases, and they are intelligent and warm blooded, just like people. If you want to see them out in the wild, there are a few ways to do it, but none are more fun or exciting as a whale watching Catalina Island tour.
The reason Catalina Island draws so many whale watching visitors is that it is the perfect location due to its proximity to breeding and birthing grounds. Many whales spend their summers in the Arctic waters surrounding Alaska. However, during mating season, they come to the Catalina area to either mate or give birth before heading back north again.
There are many species that make this annual trek. Among the most popular are the blue whales, grays and humpbacks because of their sheer size. They also have propensity for surfacing frequently and even jumping out of the water, creating a truly breathtaking show of size and power. Minke whales, fin backs and even orcas, also known as killer whales, are also usually spotted in the area.
There are plenty of options to fit every kind of desired experience when you book your tour. The biggest decision you have to make is whether you want to go on a small or large boat. The smaller ones are almost like speedboats, taking you up close to the animals and giving you a more intimate experience.
If a speedy, up close and personal encounter is not quite your bag, then perhaps the larger boats that are slower and more leisurely is your speed. These often have a snack bar to buy food and drinks, and an inside area that is climate controlled. It is the best options for families with small children, or if anyone in your party has special mobility needs, such as needing a wheelchair or walker to get around. This is by far the more common trip that people book.
You can take a short tour that only lasts a couple of hours if you are short on time. If you have all day, then a day tour that comes back in the evening is ideal. You can even book an overnight experience where you stay in a room on a nearby island, allowing you to maximize the amount of whales you can see.
Besides the many species of whales, there may be plenty of other creatures to see in the area on a good day. Besides seagulls and other marine birds, you may be able to spot bald eagles on occasion. In the water, look out for dolphins and harbor porpoises that sometimes congregate.
You should book your tour in advance, as the busy season fills up quickly and you don't want to get left out. Look out for the weather on your appointed day. Choppy waters may force the tour operator to cancel, so if the weather looks bad, call before you leave to ensure that the boat is still going out so you do not waste your time and can reschedule faster.
The reason Catalina Island draws so many whale watching visitors is that it is the perfect location due to its proximity to breeding and birthing grounds. Many whales spend their summers in the Arctic waters surrounding Alaska. However, during mating season, they come to the Catalina area to either mate or give birth before heading back north again.
There are many species that make this annual trek. Among the most popular are the blue whales, grays and humpbacks because of their sheer size. They also have propensity for surfacing frequently and even jumping out of the water, creating a truly breathtaking show of size and power. Minke whales, fin backs and even orcas, also known as killer whales, are also usually spotted in the area.
There are plenty of options to fit every kind of desired experience when you book your tour. The biggest decision you have to make is whether you want to go on a small or large boat. The smaller ones are almost like speedboats, taking you up close to the animals and giving you a more intimate experience.
If a speedy, up close and personal encounter is not quite your bag, then perhaps the larger boats that are slower and more leisurely is your speed. These often have a snack bar to buy food and drinks, and an inside area that is climate controlled. It is the best options for families with small children, or if anyone in your party has special mobility needs, such as needing a wheelchair or walker to get around. This is by far the more common trip that people book.
You can take a short tour that only lasts a couple of hours if you are short on time. If you have all day, then a day tour that comes back in the evening is ideal. You can even book an overnight experience where you stay in a room on a nearby island, allowing you to maximize the amount of whales you can see.
Besides the many species of whales, there may be plenty of other creatures to see in the area on a good day. Besides seagulls and other marine birds, you may be able to spot bald eagles on occasion. In the water, look out for dolphins and harbor porpoises that sometimes congregate.
You should book your tour in advance, as the busy season fills up quickly and you don't want to get left out. Look out for the weather on your appointed day. Choppy waters may force the tour operator to cancel, so if the weather looks bad, call before you leave to ensure that the boat is still going out so you do not waste your time and can reschedule faster.
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