Whale
watching is one of the fastest growing tourism industries in the world,
attracting millions of visitors every year.
Please Note: There are restrictions for whale watching which should
always be followed. This includes not being able to come in their way or to
touch them. They are generally of aggressive nature when provoked, and have an
unpredictable behavior.
Summer whale behavior mainly involves these majestic creatures to the surface
for breeding and taking a plunge out of the waters. The whale
watching season in Sydney, Australia begins in May and continues all the way
till the end of November – you might want to plan your trip accordingly to
catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
However,
many people don’t exactly know the ways in which they can fully enjoy this
experience. So here are the 6 tips for when you go whale watching.
1.
Pay
attention to whale
behavior
You have to be careful when you are going in the waters where
there are whales, and always look around the area. If you see a pod hanging
nearby, then you should notice their behavior for any changes that could show
signs of distress. If you see a sudden change in their swimming pattern or if
they are shielding their calves, then it’s best to leave at once because they
are trying to protect their offspring from potential threat.
2.
Distance
yourself
It is always advised to keep your distance from them. Whales are
territorial. Some of them approach the boats and vessels but only out of curiosity
to see who is in their territory. It is not necessarily out of a need to
communicate or play. The standard distance is about 100 metres from the whales.
If you think that you have come too close to the whale then leave the area.
3.
Slow
it down
If you are on a guided tour like Oz Whale Watching, then you are
in good hands, because the tour guides know how to run a cruise ship around the
whales. However, if you are using a personal vessel, keep a 10-knots distance when
maneuvering around them. Speeding ships and vessels have caused several whale
deaths in the past 10 years.
4.
Place
to approach them
The best way to approach
these majestic creatures is to
be parallel to them while maintaining safe distance. You need to be out of a
whale’s path in order for it to swim freely. They’re big enough to be seen from
afar if you want to witness some breaching and jumping.
5.
Limit
your watching time
Although it’s very exciting to watch whales for hours, you need
to stay limit the time since they can be distracted by the presence and sound
of your vessel. This may stop them from doing their normal activities like looking
for food, mating, and socializing. Stick around the area for no more than an
hour.
6.
Do
not try to feed or touch them
You need to realize that these are not your regular mammals that
will come to you if you throw out some bread crumbs. Whales are gigantic
creatures and aggravating them in any way may mean risking your life. Remember,
the ocean is their home, not yours.