How to Organize a Whale-Watching Trip

Whale-watching is one of the most exciting adventures upon which you could embark. The magnificent animals are incredible to behold and a whale-watching trip can include fascinating information from your guide as well as beautiful sights. You'd be surprised at how easily marine biologists can predict where you might see whales and you can often see more than a dozen species in one day. Not only that, but whale-watching trips are far less expensive than other, less exciting vacations.

The Best Places to Find Whales

There are plenty of places around the world in which whale-watching trips can be easily planned. You don't have to head off for some exotic locale to experience whales, which is great if you're working off a shoestring budget. In the United States, southern California is one of the most popular places to go whale watching. Long Beach, Monterrey Bay, Newport Landing, Mission Bay and Ventura are just a few prime locations. If you live near Massachusetts, you might prefer Cape Ann or Cape Cod. Maine also has several ports from which boats leave every day for whale watching, so don't let your geographical location keep you from experiencing this wonderful adventure.

The Best Time of Year to Find Whales

Organizing a whale-watching trip should also involve consideration of migratory patterns. You don't want to head out on a boat with the assurance that you might not see any whales, particularly if you've paid good money to see them. For example, you're most likely to find Humpback whales in tropical waters during the winter, but they head to polar waters during the rest of the year. Some whales are not prone to migration and stay in the same areas year-round, but be sure to plan your trip around the species of whales you hope to spot.

Finding Whale-Watching Tours

Although you can usually rent a boat and go out on the sea by yourself to look for whales, it is far more practical to purchase a guided tour. Not only will you have a better boat, but your safety will be much more assured and you're more likely to see whales. Marine biologists and zoologists give plenty of guided tours throughout the year, and in addition to pointing out whales along the way, they'll also tell you all about the animals. You'll find that you appreciate the adventure more when you understand the habits and personalities of the whales. In general, whale-watching tours cost between $25 and $80 per person, with discounts for seniors and children.

How to Come Prepared

Whale-watching trips are lots of fun, but make sure you're prepared for the adventure. Bring a video camera or digital camera so you can take pictures of the whales as they appear. You should also plan to wear a light jacket (a heavy jacket in winter) because the air is always colder on the ocean. If you can, wear slip-resistant shoes so that you aren't in any danger of falling on deck and wear sunscreen during the summer months. If you know that you're prone to seasickness, you might talk to your doctor about a prescription pill to help fight nausea.