Minke Whales

As one of the smallest and most elusive members of the baleen whale family, the minke whale holds a special charm for whale enthusiasts. At Prince of Whales, we’ve had the privilege of encountering these remarkable creatures during our tours, offering guests unforgettable glimpses into their world. Let’s dive into what makes the minke whale so fascinating.

What is a Minke Whale?

The minke whale (pronounced “mink-ee”) is a species of baleen whale, known for its agility and curious nature. These whales belong to the rorqual family, which includes the blue, fin, and humpback whales. There are two primary species of minke whales: the common minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) and the Antarctic minke whale (Balaenoptera bonaerensis).

At Prince of Whales, we typically encounter the northern hemisphere’s common minke whales, though they remain fairly elusive in the Salish Sea.

What Does a Minke Whale Look Like?

Minke whales are relatively small compared to their baleen relatives, measuring between 7–10 meters (23–33 feet) in length and weighing up to 10 tons. Their sleek, streamlined bodies are built for speed, allowing them to dart gracefully through the water. Minke whales are one of the smallest baleen whales and part of the rorqual family. They are abundant worldwide, with stable populations compared to other large whales. Commercial whaling in some regions historically impacted their numbers, but the reduced competition from other species may have allowed minkes to thrive in certain areas. Their scientific name, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, means “winged whale” with a “sharp snout.” The common name comes from a Norwegian whaler’s mistake, identifying a minke as a blue whale.

They are easily recognizable by their:

• Pointed snouts
• Dark gray to black upper body that fades to a lighter gray on the sides and white on the belly
• Distinctive white “armband” marking on their pectoral fins, unique to the northern minke whale

These features, combined with their elegant movement, make them a treat to spot from our vessels.

What is Special About the Minke Whales?

Minke whales are unique for several reasons:

• Speed and agility: These whales can swim at speeds up to 30 km/h (18 mph), often surprising onlookers with their quick movements.
• Curiosity: Unlike many other whales, minkes are known to approach boats out of curiosity, offering an up-close viewing experience.
• Quiet communication: They are some of the quietest whales, using low-frequency sounds to communicate—so subtle that they are nicknamed the “whispering giants” of the sea.

How Many Minke Whales Are Left?

The global population of minke whales is difficult to estimate precisely, but they are considered one of the most abundant whale species. The common minke whale population is thought to be over 500,000 worldwide, with the Antarctic minke whale numbering in the hundreds of thousands as well. While not endangered, minke whales face threats such as climate change, entanglement in fishing gear, vessel strikes and hunting in certain parts of the world. Conservation efforts, like those supported by Prince of Whales, aim to raise awareness and protect their habitats.

Where Can You See Minke Whales?

Minke whales have a wide range, found in oceans worldwide. In the Salish Sea, they are most commonly spotted during the warmer months when they follow schools of fish into the area.

On our tours departing from Victoria, Vancouver, and Telegraph Cove, guests may encounter minke whales alongside other marine wildlife, such as humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions. Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into their behaviours and habitat, making every rare sighting an educational and inspiring experience.

Seeing a minke whale in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience, and there’s no better way to do so than with Prince of Whales. Join us on our next adventure—you never know when a curious minke might swim by!