Whale Watching in Hawaii: Tips for a Magnificent Adventure

The islands of Hawaii probably provide the best stage for anyone wishing to watch some whales worldwide. The whales migrate during the northern winter from the Arctic regions to the warm tropical seas around Hawaii for mating. During the mating, many chances will occur for seeing the whales blowing or splashing their massive tails. Of interest is the fact that the whales travel over 4,000 miles for their mating ritual. If you are interested in watching whales, these tips will guarantee you the best views of the humpback whales during your Hawaiian vacation.

Pick the Right Months to be in Hawaii
The whale migration gets the whales to Hawaii between November and the end of May before they complete the journey back to the Arctic. The peak watching time is however during the period February through March. You are unlikely to return without seeing whales to your heart's content during these two months.

Go to the Islands with Highest Sightings
Go to Big Island or the islands of Maui and Kauai increase the chances of seeing the whales. You may see some on the Oahu as well, but less frequently. For the land lubber, you can enjoy watching mostly from a few high-grounds on Kauai.

Include a Boat Tour in Your Itinerary
Go on a boat tour. The tour operators have been at this business for a while and they know their job well. The tours will take you to all the likely sites and will all but guarantee that you will have your opportunity to watch some whales. You are able to get on a tour boat at Lahaina Harbour for most of the day.

Keep Your Distance
Regulations prohibit any vehicle from coming closer than 100 yards of the whale. You can luck out however, as whales are inquisitive and sometimes want to watch the boats! With some luck you can get a very close view of a whale as it comes close. The regulation does not proscribe you from remaining still when a whale approaches.

How to help protect the humpback whales and other whales?
These magnificent creatures were hunted to near extinction by 1966. Since then preservation regulations have prevailed and most countries are complying. The numbers of whales now stands at just under 40,000. You too can help keep these leviathans alive for future generations of watchers by:-Preventing or helping to prevent pollution of the oceans

-Support the fight against unlawful whaling

-Give succor to all labors to preserve and protect the whales

-Buy goods and services from "green" organizations. By following these helpful tips, you can make a difference in helping to preserve and protect these amazing creatures for the next generation to enjoy.

Sources:
Hawaii Whale Watching, Brenda Matthews, Hawaiiactive.com