Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A:
In the same way that every snowflake has a different pattern, every humpback
whale has a different pattern on the bottom of its fluke. Researchers photograph the
bottoms of the flukes and match them up with previous photos to track and monitor
a whale's location.
Q: Are whales more active in the morning?
A:
No. Since whales only take short “cat naps,” there isn't a set time of day when
they are asleep. Mornings are often best for whale-watching because the water is
calmer and the whales are easier to spot.
Q: How big is a whale's lung?
A:
Each lung on a humpback whale is about the size of a small car.
Q: Are humpbacks the world's largest whales?
A:
No. Humpbacks are the fifth largest whale, at 45-50 feet. They pale in com-
parison to blue whales, which can grow upward of 100 feet.
Q: What is “getting mugged?”
A:
“Getting mugged” refers to the fact that all boats are required to maintain a
100-yard radius from humpback whales. Should the whales decide to approach the
boat it is out of your hands. While the engines are off and the boat is adrift, you
need to wait and endure the “mugging” until the whale loses interest. This can be 45
minutes or more.
Q: I would love to see whales up close, but I get seasick. Do you have any
suggestions?
A:
Seasickness is caused by a disconnect between what your eyes are seeing
and what your body is feeling. The best way to avoid it is to stay above deck with
your eyes on the horizon. On most boats the bow (front) moves more than the stern
(back), so get a seat toward the back. Keep well-hydrated to avoid feeling sick. Caf-
feine can also cause nausea, so forfeit that morning coffee.
Q: Wow. You know a lot about whales. Any other tips?
A:
Unless you're a professional photographer, don't worry so much about fid-
dling with your camera to get the perfect shot. Just enjoy the live show right in front
of you. No two whale-watching trips are equal. The best remedy for a mediocre out-
ing is to go on another one!
