How to spot whales

Whale watching is an unforgettable experience, but knowing how to spot orcas and humpbacks whales takes a little practice. Whether you’re on the water with us at Prince of Whales or watching from the shore, here’s a simple three-step guide to help you become an expert at spotting whales!

Step 1: Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon

One of the biggest mistakes new whale watchers make is looking too close to the boat. While it’s tempting to focus on the water right in front of you, whales move quickly and often surface farther away than expected. Instead, keep your gaze on the horizon and scan slowly in a sweeping motion. This will give you the best chance to spot movement, such as a blow or a fin breaking the surface.

Pro tip: Polarized sunglasses can help cut glare on sunny days, making it easier to see whales in the distance!

Step 2: Look for Blows, Splashes, and Fins

Whales are mammals, which means they must come to the surface to breathe. The most telltale sign of a whale is its blow—a cloud of misty air and water vapour that erupts when the whale exhales. But that’s not the only thing to watch for! Here are a few key signs that whales are nearby:

• Blows: A visible mist rising above the water, which varies in shape and height depending on the species.
• Splashes: Whales often make a dramatic entrance, whether it’s a tail slap, pectoral fin wave, or even a full breach.
• Dorsal fins: Orcas have tall, striking dorsal fins that can be seen cutting through the water, while humpbacks have smaller, curved fins.

If you see any of these signs, keep watching! Whales usually follow a pattern of diving and resurfacing, so you might get multiple chances to see them.

Step 3: Recognize the Blows

Not all blows look the same! Identifying the shape and size of a blow can help determine which species you’re seeing:

• Killer Whales (Orcas): Their blows are shorter, close to the water’s surface, and have a circular shape. Orcas often travel in pods, so if you spot one, there’s a good chance more are nearby.
• Humpback Whales: Their blows are tall and column-shaped, rising high into the air. Humpbacks are known for their acrobatic behaviour, so after spotting a blow, keep an eye out for a tail or pectoral fin!

Bonus Tips for Whale Watching Success

• Be Patient: Whale watching is about timing and luck. Some days, whales are active and easy to spot; other days, they may be more elusive. Stay persistent, and enjoy the experience of being on the water!
• Use Binoculars: While you don’t need binoculars to see a whale, they can help you get a better look at distant activity, such as a whale spy-hopping or breaching.
• Listen to the Experts: If you’re on a guided whale watching tour, listen to the naturalists and guides. They are trained to spot whales and can provide valuable behavioural insights.
• Respect Marine Wildlife: Always follow whale watching guidelines to ensure you’re observing these animals safely and responsibly.

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