Best Places to Go Whale Watching Around the World

Alaska, United States

Whale watching in Alaska is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth—and one of the most ethical. Alaska has strict regulations like: boats must stay at least 100 yards away, reduce speed near whales, and never chase or circle them. Reputable companies follow these rules closely, helping protect marine life while offering awe-inspiring views.

Each year, over 10,000 humpback whales return to Alaska’s nutrient-rich waters from Hawaii and Mexico to feed. You can also see gray whales (up to 30,000 annually) during spring and fall migrations, as well as resident orcas, belugas, and even the occasional blue whale.

I’ve had amazing whale watching experiences across several Alaskan towns. In Seward, I joined Major Marine Tours for a full-day cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, where I saw orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, puffins, and even calving glaciers. In Sitka, I spotted gray whales with Sitka Expeditions, which uses quiet, 6-passenger boats—perfect for a close-to-nature experience. In Juneau, Alaska Tales offered a small-group tour where I witnessed a group of humpbacks bubble-net feeding—an unforgettable sight. In Icy Strait Point, it’s even possible to take a kayaking tour with whale watching opportunities, as humpback whales are often seen close to shore in this unique cruise port.

The best time for whale watching in Alaska is May through September. With its rich ecosystems, strong wildlife protections, and locally operated ethical tours, Alaska remains one of the top whale watching destinations in the world.

Antarctica

Antarctica, a continent of unparalleled icy grandeur, stands as a premier destination for witnessing penguins, seals, and whales in the wild. Among the very best places to go whale watching around the world, it is particularly renowned for its abundance of humpback whales, especially within the sheltered waters of Wilhelmenia Bay. This stunning natural amphitheater, often referred to as “Whale-mina Bay,” is a crucial feeding ground for these magnificent creatures during the summer months (November-March). Imagine navigating through a landscape dotted with colossal icebergs, where the calm, deep waters become a stage for the dramatic feeding rituals and playful antics of hundreds of humpbacks.

Wilhelmenia Bay offers an extraordinary concentration of humpback whales, drawn by the rich krill populations that thrive in these frigid Antarctic waters. It’s common for tour vessels to encounter multiple individuals or even large groups of these gentle giants actively feeding. Witnessing a humpback whale lunge-feeding, where it engulfs vast quantities of krill, or seeing its powerful flukes disappear beneath the surface during a deep dive, are truly humbling experiences. The sheer scale of the whales against the dramatic backdrop of ice cliffs and glaciers creates a visual spectacle that is profoundly moving and unforgettable for anyone fortunate enough to witness it.

As with all ethical wildlife encounters, whale watching in Wilhelmenia Bay and throughout Antarctica demands a profound respect for the animals and their environment. Tour operators are committed to responsible practices, ensuring that their presence does not disrupt the whales’ feeding, breeding, or migratory patterns. All tour operators agree to the Antarctic Treaty, which has strict wildlife protections. By maintaining appropriate distances and minimizing noise, we help protect these incredible marine mammals.

Azores, Portugal

The Azores, a remote Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with sightings possible year-round! Sitting right on major migratory routes, these volcanic islands host over 20 different whale and dolphin species. During our June trip, we encountered majestic sperm whales and were fortunate enough to have a playful pod of dolphins swim right alongside our boat. If you time it right—especially in spring and early summer—you might even spot the elusive blue whale or humpbacks passing through.

We went with Moby Dick Tours, a small, family-run company, departing from Ponta Delgada port on São Miguel Island. They operate a single, beautifully refurbished wooden boat, which makes a big difference. The owner himself was onboard and explained that the wood absorbs the engine’s vibrations, making it far less intrusive to marine life. In fact, the dolphins seemed to love it—they danced around our boat and even swam directly underneath us! It felt like they were putting on a show. We appreciated the calm, respectful approach compared to other companies we saw speeding around in inflatable rafts, getting far too close to the whales.

If you travel to the Azores and want a magical, low-impact whale watching experience, this is the way to do it.

Baja California Sur, Mexico

Each winter, the warm, shallow lagoons of Baja California Sur, Mexico become a sanctuary for migrating gray whales. After traveling over 5,000 miles from the Arctic, these majestic creatures arrive between late December and April to breed, give birth, and rest. This makes Baja one of the most remarkable—and accessible—places in the world to witness gray whales up close.

Top spots include Laguna San Ignacio, Magdalena Bay, and Laguna Ojo de Liebre, all located along the whales’ migratory path. These calm, protected waters are favored by gray whales for their safety and warmth, and visitors often experience “friendly whale” behavior—curious whales sometimes approach small boats, creating awe-inspiring, intimate encounters.

Ethical whale watching is a priority in Baja. I chose to go with Baja Expeditions, a locally rooted company with a strong conservation ethos. Their small-group tours are led by naturalist guides, and they strictly adhere to regulations—like limiting boat numbers in the lagoons, maintaining respectful distances, and using non-invasive techniques. Their commitment to education and community involvement made the experience not only moving but responsible.

Beyond gray whales, you might also see dolphins, sea lions, and migratory birds. It’s a rich marine ecosystem that’s a dream for nature lovers and photographers alike.

For a life-changing, respectful wildlife experience, Baja’s whale lagoons are unmatched. Visit from January to March for peak whale activity and choose a tour operator that puts conservation and community first.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

When people think of Bora Bora, they think of the incredible Bora Bora overwater bungalows and a honeymooner’s paradise. What few people know is that it is also one of the best places in the world for Whale Watching. 

Bora Bora is located on the migratory path for humpback whales who flock to the area every season from July to November to give birth and raise their young. While the industry is relatively new, the outfitters in the area take great care to ensure that there are only small groups going out to see the whales at one time and that the boat stays a minimum of 100 meters away. 

What makes the experience even more exciting is the opportunity to snorkel in the water with the whales. Only those that can swim at least 100 meters from where you are allowed to be by boat should attempt to get into the water with the whales. The guides look to make sure that the whale is open to an interaction and is not actively moving away from the area. We recommend Tohora Bora Bora as they have been doing the tours the longest and are ethical operators that care about the whales well-being and conservation. 

Digby, Nova Scotia

Digby, in Nova Scotia, is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Located along the Bay of Fundy which is home to the highest tides on Earth, this region creates a nutrient-rich environment that draws whales during their summer migration. I went early September, and it turned out to be the perfect time: warm weather, calm seas, and plenty of sightings.

I went with Adventure Bay Whale Watching Company, a small, locally-run company that operates out of Tiverton, on Digby Neck. What I loved about them was their commitment to ethical wildlife tourism. The groups are small, and they never chase the whales or get too close. They let the whales come to the boat, and what a sight that was when a humpback decided to swim along us. They also had two marine biologists on board to answer questions as well as spot the whales.

Their tours run from June until September, using their fishing boat, before the lobster season starts. I was lucky that they accommodated my not very flexible schedule and found a space for me on their lunchtime tour.

Going whale watching in Digby is pretty magical. If you’ve been to Nova Scotia before you will know how small and how raw this area is. There are only a few companies that offer these tours, and they only operate in summer, when the whales naturally come to the Bay of Fundy to feed with the abundant plankton at the bottom of the ocean.

Fraser Island, Australia

If you’re looking for an ethical way to see whales in the wild, Fraser Island (K’gari) is one of the most breathtaking places to do it.

Sitting right along the humpback whale migratory path, K’gari offers front-row views, without needing a boat. Between July and October, thousands of whales pause around Hervey Bay to rest and play, and from the cliffs at Indian Head on K’gari, you can watch it all unfold.

We saw humpbacks breaching, fin-slapping, and swimming with their young, all from the shore. What makes this experience so special is how undisturbed it is. There’s no close contact, no engine noise, and no risk of interfering with their behaviour. Just you, the ocean, and a whole lot of whale action.

It’s not just humpbacks either. From the same lookout points, we also spotted tiger sharks, manta rays, and turtles cruising through the clear waters below. A totally wild, respectful way to witness marine life with no tour required.

Hermanus, South Africa

Hermanus, a coastal gem just two hours from Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the world’s most ethical and accessible whale-watching destinations. Its prime position along the Southern Right Whales’ migratory route makes it ideal from June to November, with peak sightings in September and October when the whales arrive to breed and calve. What sets whale watching in Hermanus apart is its exceptional land-based watching, particularly along the scenic 7-mile Cliff Path, where you can often see whales just offshore without ever stepping onto a boat. Humpback whales and dolphins also make appearances, and for those craving more adventure, guided sea kayaking offers a thrilling yet low-impact way to experience marine life, often including seals, penguins, and seabirds. 

Boat tours are also available and widely praised for their ethical practices: limited group sizes, respectful distances, and expert guides who focus on education and conservation. One standout company is Southern Right Charters, known for its eco-conscious approach and dedication to responsible marine tourism. Their small-group tours prioritize safety and the well-being of the animals, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a meaningful encounter. 

With a welcoming town vibe, beautiful landscapes, and a deep commitment to protecting marine life, Hermanus isn’t just a great place to see whales—it’s a model for sustainable wildlife tourism. Whether watching from the cliffs or venturing out by kayak or boat, visitors are offered a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest shows with minimal impact on the animals themselves.

Kaikoura, New Zealand

One of the best places to see whales in New Zealand is the charming coastal town of Kaikoura, located on New Zealand’s South Island. This once sleepy fishing village has become a global hot spot for marine encounters, with the chance to swim with wild dolphins, kayak with seals and see several species of whales. 

Thanks to a unique underwater landscape, Kaikoura’s waters are filled with wildlife, including resident sperm whales, migrating humpback whales and visiting orcas. 

There are several ways to go whale watching in Kaikoura, with a boat tour being the most popular. Due to strict marine regulations, there is only one whale watching boat tour in Kaikoura. The company operate several tours per day, and follow strict regulations to ensure the encounters are as ethical as possible. This includes keeping their distance from the whales, not chasing the animals and limiting the amount of time spent with each animal. 

One of the best parts about whale watching in Kaikoura is the area’s Jurassic-like landscape, and the best way to experience this is to take a whale watching flight. Not only will you have the unique opportunity to witness whales from above, but you’ll also be treated to a spectacular view of the stunning coastline. Wings over Whales is a fantastic choice if this activity is on your itinerary. 

It’s possible to go whale watching all year round in Kaikoura, as the resident sperm whales live there throughout the year. For the chance to see other species such as humpback whales, the winter months of June to August offer the best opportunity. When it comes to orcas, they can appear at any time of year, but sightings normally peak in the summer months. 

Loreto, Mexico

Nestled on the Sea of Cortez on Baja California’s east coast, Loreto is a popular destination with vacationers seeking sun, sea, and sandy beaches. But what many visitors don’t know is that this small colonial town is home to a migration of the largest animals on the planet, blue whales. Every year between January and March, these gentle giants can be found in the protected waters of Loreto Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors can see blue whales in Loreto by taking a boat tour with a licensed operator, where they may also encounter other species, including fin whales, dolphins, and occasionally orcas. Tours are highly regulated by Mexico’s Ministry of Environment with limited licenses awarded to whale watching companies to ensure the experience is ethical. Some tours also include a stop at one of the bay’s beautiful islands. Loreto Sea and Land Tours is a popular local operator with marine biologist guides, offering small-group tours to ensure a personal and respectful experience. Their blue whale watching tours also include wildlife spotting, where visitors may see turtles, rays, or blue-footed boobies, as well as a traditional Mexican lunch.

Maui, Hawaii, United States

You can’t talk about whale watching without mentioning Maui, one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. While Hawaii in general is a great place to see whales between late December and mid-March, Maui in particular has a high concentration due to the natural channel between the island of Maui and the islands of Lanai and Kaho’olawe on Maui’s west side.

The protected channel is the perfect nursery. You’ll see males showing off with fin and tail slaps. It’s also a calm, fairly shallow environment for females to give birth and to teach new younglings how to breach. Scientists estimate around 12,000 humpback whales migrate between Alaska and Maui every winter.

Hawaii is careful to protect its precious natural resources, including the sea life that surrounds its islands. Whale watching tour companies are closely monitored. It’s illegal to touch or interfere with the whales, and all ships follow guidelines to keep a safe, unobtrusive distance but still allow for viewing. You’ll get close, but you’ll want a good zoom lens if you want photos. Tours from Maalaea Harbor or Kihei/Wailea are typically 2-3 hours and include a whale scientist on board to provide information and explanations of behavior.

On our PacWhale Eco-Adventures tour, they brought a hydrophone so we could hear the whales talking to each other without getting in the water. With thousands of whales in the area, it can be quite loud!All told, whale watching is one of the most unique things you can do in Maui. Don’t miss it!

Mazunte, Mexico

Mazunte, on the Oaxacan coast of Mexico, is a fantastic place to see humpback whales. 

From December to March, the Pacific Ocean near Mazunte becomes a migratory corridor for humpback whales. These majestic animals travel thousands of kilometers from the Arctic to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in the warm waters of Mexico.

Local boat operators run trips twice a day, with trips usually at 7am and 3pm – although keep in mind that the afternoons will be very hot. You’re best to book the night before with the boat owners on the beach and the cost will be 500 pesos for 3 hours. 
Whilst humpbacks are the most common type of whale in the region, due to being on the migration route, more than 33 species of cetaceans have been documented in the area. 

The area limits the number of boats, and operators are required to keep their distance and follow guidelines to limit disturbance, including turning off engines. Given that the operators are usually locally or community-owned, it’s also a socially sustainable way to see whales and support the community. 

Mo’orea, French Polynesia

Mo’orea, near Tahiti in French Polynesia, is one of the best places in the world to ethically see whales and one of the few places where you can legally swim with wild humpback whales and other cetaceans.

Every year, with peaks in August to October, humpback whales migrate north from the cold waters of Antarctica to the warm lagoons around French Polynesia to care for their calves until they are strong enough to return south and hunt on their own. While humpback whales in Mo’orea are the primary attraction, you might also get to see sperm whales, orcas, pilot whales, or several species of dolphins.

Whale swimming in Mo’orea is highly regulated and carefully managed by the government and many conservation organizations. A very limited number of boats are permitted near the whales at a time, and strict distance rules are in place for both vessels and humans in the water to minimize stress on the animals. Mo’orea Moana Tours is a fantastic whale tour to take in Mo’orea. Their guides are dedicated ocean conservationists and passionate marine biologists who put the whales’ well-being first.

Swimming with whales in Mo’orea is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to connect deeply with these amazing animals while respecting their natural behaviors and space. If seeing whales is on your bucket list, Mo’orea is truly a dream destination. You can learn all about swimming with whales in Mo’orea here!

Okinawa, Japan

In Okinawa, Japan, from late December until early April, North Pacific Humpback Whales can be seen between mainland Okinawa and the Kerama Islands. The humpback whales spend the warm months in cooler, calmer waters near Russia and migrate south to warmer waters, swimming right by Okinawa. The humpback whales give birth and raise their calves around the waters of Okinawa, so chances of seeing a family of whales are pretty common.

The whales can be seen from the shores of Okinawa, but the best way to see their migration is to hop on board a boat or join in on a whale-watching tour. Between December and April, several companies offer tours. While on a ship, nature enthusiasts can see breaching and tail slapping.

For those that want to get up close and personal with the whales as they migrate by Okinawa, there is an option to snorkel with the whales. Several dive centers and local companies offer whale swim tours. For the safety of both humans and whales, it is illegal to dive below the surface, touch the whales, or do anything that may stress the whales. If a particular whale wants to be left alone, the tour company respects it and moves on. Sometimes, the calves are curious and playful, which is a joy to watch, either while whale watching or swimming with the whales.

Oregon Coast, United States

The Oregon Coast is one of the best places in the world to see grey whales. These massive creatures, which weigh around 60,000 pounds, migrate from their summertime feeding grounds in the chilly waters off Alaska, down to the warm lagoons of the Baja Peninsula of Mexico every wintertime to breed and give birth. Accordingly, you can spot some of these 20,000 whales on their way down to Mexico, from mid-December through mid-January and on their return trip (calves in tow!) to the Arctic waters from March through May. 

Additionally, there’s actually around 200 so-called “resident whales”, who skip making the journey up to Alaska and, instead, spend their summers feeding off the coast of one of the cutest Oregon Coast towns, Depoe Bay. 

So, depending on when you’re visiting this area, you have several options of how to spot these whales. If you’re visiting during their migratory periods, you can simply head to an area with a high vantage point (for example, the sand dunes of Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City or the cliff sides in Oswald West State Park near Cannon Beach) and try to see the whales’ spouts from there. 

Alternatively, in the summertime (from June through late September), you can join a whale watching tour from the harbor of Depoe Bay and get to spot the whales a bit more up close. In addition to grey whales, it’s not unusual to see orcas, steller sea lions, California sea lions, a variety of marine birds, and even the mighty blue whale on these tours.

Whale Research EcoExcursions is an excellent choice of a tour operator in Depoe Bay. This small  company is owned and operated by a professor of marine biology, whose passion for whales is incredibly obvious if you head out on one of her small group tours. She has actually been studying the resident grey whales for years to better understand and protect these incredible creatures.

Puerto Madryn, Argentina

Southern right whales return to Puerto Madryn and the nearby Peninsula Valdes in Argentina’s Patagonia year after year to birth and nurse their young. The whales begin to arrive each June and stay in the waters here until December. However, the best time of year to visit is September-November, when there is the largest quantity of whales present, and you can also view penguins. 

Tours depart from Puerto Piramides on the Peninsula Valdes. Botazzi is an ethical provider of these excursions, focusing on not disturbing the whales and minimizing their impact. Multiple tours are run each day. Visitors can book directly by renting a car to get themselves to Puerto Piramides. This is recommended as having your own car is the ideal way to see this region’s wildlife. Otherwise, these excursions from Puerto Madryn will tour all of Peninsula Valdes’ wildlife, ending with a whale watching excursion.

And for looking to make the least impact possible on a budget, it is possible to view whales right from the beach. Playa Doradilla, just north of Puerto Madryn, features an immediate steep drop off just 10-20 meters off the shore. Whales rest in these still, deep waters and it feels as if you could reach out and touch them as they float by.

Beyond Southern Right Whales, this region is a marine wildlife paradise. Magellanic penguins come to nest every year from September through April. Orcas, sea lions, and elephant seals are viewable year-round (although to view orcas requires a heavy dose of patience and a lot of luck).

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s location on the edge of the Arctic Circle makes it one of the best places to go whale watching around the world. Its surrounding waters teem with life, attracting a diverse array of whale species throughout the year. From the famed Faxaflói Bay near Reykjavik to the more remote Westfjords and the northern hub of Húsavík, often dubbed the whale watching capital of Europe, visitors are treated to spectacular opportunities to witness these majestic marine mammals. The nutrient-rich waters, fueled by the confluence of warm and cold currents, create a bountiful feeding ground that draws whales close to shore, making for accessible and thrilling encounters.

One of the most common and beloved sights during Icelandic whale watching tours is the mighty humpback whale. These acrobatic performers are known for their impressive breaches, tail slaps, and fluke dives, offering photographers and nature enthusiasts alike unforgettable moments. Minke whales are also frequently spotted, often curious about the boats and sometimes swimming remarkably close. For those venturing further into Icelandic waters, particularly during the summer months, the chance to see the largest animal on Earth, the blue whale, is a distinct possibility, alongside fin whales, sei whales, and playful pods of dolphins and porpoises.

When planning your Icelandic whale watching adventure, it’s important to remember the ethical considerations that ensure the whales’ well-being. Reputable operators adhere to strict guidelines designed to minimize disturbance, maintaining safe distances and respecting the whales’ natural behaviors.

Sydney, Australia

One of the best things I’ve done during my time living in Sydney was a whale watching tour on Sydney Harbor. During the tour, we were lucky enough to see giant humpback whales hitting the water’s surface with their tails and spouting water from their blowhole. There was one particular young male who really showed off for us. 

We did the tour in August (which is regarded as the best month to go whale watching in Sydney), but whale watching season in Sydney runs from May to November. Yes, from May, around 15,000 humpback whales and southern right whales make their way past Sydney en route from Antarctica. So, it’s fitting, I guess, that the ocean off Sydney is nicknamed ‘Humpback Highway’ during these months. 

We also spotted a southern right whale on our tour, but if you’re lucky, you may also get the chance to see minke whales and orcas on your tour.

We really researched the best whale watching tours in Sydney before booking, as we were really mindful of picking an ethical company. We booked this 4-hour whale-watching cruise because it had great reviews and because it was a small group tour. There were around 12 people on board, which meant a smaller boat. Which is said to be better for the whales (less disturbing to them). 

Our captain was also really careful to keep the boat at a safe distance from the whales. And if he saw another boat watching a whale, he kept away. So as not to scare them. But, I must say, that overall, the other boats we saw did seem to prioritize the whales’ well-being. Which really put our minds at ease.

Tadoussac, Quebec, Canada

In a couple of hours’ drive from Quebec City and on the beautiful Saguenay Fjord, Tadoussac is the perfect addition to any Quebec road trip itinerary. As one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, you can spot up to 13 different species of whale. In addition, there are also seals and porpoises.

Tadoussac is an ideal spot for whale watching as it is where the St. Lawrence River meets the Saguenay Fjord. The water here is extremely deep (up to 270 m!) and combined with the mixing of salt and fresh water creates the perfect conditions for an abundance of fish and plankton. This feeding ground attracts many species of whales, including endangered species. Because of its importance to a variety of species, the area is protected as part of Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park.

When I visited I was able to spot humpbacks, minke, and fin whales. However, it is also common to spot belugas and blue whales. Whale season is from May to October, but you can spot belugas from land year-round.

You have three options here for viewing whales. You can take a boat, which is perfect for families or those who get seasick. There is also the option to take a zodiac boat. The Zodiac boat is an inflatable type of boat that can safely get closer to the whales. It is rougher and there is a chance of getting wet, which is why a full waterproof outfit is provided. I went on a zodiac tour with AML Cruises and found them to be very respectful of whale movements and stay the required distance away.

If you prefer to stay on land, it is also possible to walk the short Pointe-de-l’Islet trail in Tadoussac and see whales, I recommend binoculars if you choose this option. There are also trails further up the fjord that you can spot whales from, including the Sentier le Fjord in Saguenay Fjord National Park.

Tarifa, Spain

Tarifa is a unique location just between the African continent and Europe. Right at the entrance of the Gibraltar Strait, a diverse ecosystem lives underwater, making it a crucial migratory passage for numerous marine species. Each year, majestic whales find shelter and a food supply in the Strait of Gibraltar during their long migration towards the north of the Atlantic Ocean. It is an opportunity to witness and observe them in their natural habitat in an ethical way if you choose the right company. 

You can observe three different species of whales off the coast of Tarifa. The first one is the Pilot whale, a medium-sized toothed whale resident of the Gibraltar Strait (aka present all year round). The second one is the sperm whale, usually swimming alone rather than in a group, which spends most of its time underwater thanks to excellent pulmonary capacity. The last one is the fin whale, the second largest animal in the world and a very fast swimmer, making its appearance rare. 

The best period to observe whales migrating off the coast of Tarifa is from April to September. Even though, as with every wildlife observation, you are never guaranteed to see them, this is your best shot. During this time, it is possible to encounter these animals roaming around in crew, cradled by oceanic streams and hunting their prey.

FIRMM means Foundation for Information and Research on Marine Mammals. Just the acronym of their name says a lot about their intentions and ethical goals. I had the chance to exchange with them for hours, and it appears to be a scientific group more than a business using the watching side to finance their research and collect samples. 

Meanwhile, they are also very passionate and determined to teach people about marine mammals. Watching whales with them is one of the best things to do in Tarifa thanks to their ethical and marine conservation efforts. 

Tromso, Norway

If you’re dreaming of seeing whales in the wild and want to do it responsibly, northern Norway is one of the best spots on the planet. From November through January, herring flood the fjords around Skjervøy, a few hours north of Tromsø, drawing humpbacks, orcas, minkes, fin whales, and even the occasional sperm whale. This peak season also overlaps with Norway’s polar night and Northern Lights viewing, so you’re basically swimming in bucket-list moments.

I booked my tour from Tromsø with Brim Explorer, an ethical operator using hybrid-electric catamarans. These boats run almost silently and reduce underwater noise pollution, which means less stress for the whales and a better experience for humans. The crew strictly followed local wildlife guidelines, keeping safe distances and avoiding high-speed maneuvers.

We departed Tromsø in the morning and spent about three hours cruising to the feeding grounds. Along the way, we passed dramatic Arctic landscapes and got a short education in whale behavior from the guides. Once we arrived near Skjervøy, we saw fin whales, minke whales, and, to the guides’ delight, a rare sperm whale that hadn’t been spotted that year.

The tour lasted about eight hours total, with warm indoor seating, food for purchase, and plenty of outdoor deck space for photos. Fair warning: the sea can be choppy near Skjervøy, so pack seasickness meds if you’re even slightly prone.

This is a full-day adventure that’s equally magical and ethical. Tromsø knows how to do whale watching right.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver, Canada, is a popular destination for whale watching nearly year-round. A variety of whale species can be found in the waters just
off the coast of Vancouver in the Salish Sea, thanks to its nutrient-rich coastal waters that support a thriving marine ecosystem. Humpback Whales and Bigg’s Orcas are the most commonly sighted whale species in the Salish Sea. They migrate through the North Pacific region as far north as Alaska, although some often remain year-round. The best time for whale watching in Vancouver is from April to October, which marks the peak whale watching season. Other less frequently spotted species in the Salish Sea include Grey Whales, Minke Whales, and Fin Whales.

With high chances of spotting these magnificent creatures, Whale watching in Vancouver is a must-do activity to include in your Vancouver itinerary. We chose Wild Whales Vancouver for their commitment to ethical whale watching and marine conservation. The tour price includes a conservation fee that supports research and wildlife conservation initiatives. The staff is enthusiastic about educating passengers on local wildlife and
whale-friendly sustainability. Once a whale was spotted, they maintained a safe and responsible distance, turned off the vessel’s motor, and allowed the whale to approach on its own terms.

We chose an open-air vessel for the best viewing opportunity and were provided with anti-exposure flotation suits that kept us safe and warm. The tour lasted about four hours, and we had an amazing time, especially because we witnessed an extraordinary display of several humpback whales breaching multiple times around our boat. Additionally, we spotted a pod of Bigg’s orcas and some Steller sea lions.

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

The West Coast of North America offers multiple whale-watching locations, with humpbacks being the primary species spotted. However, Victoria, British Columbia, stands out as a premier destination for those wanting to see orcas.

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, orca sightings are prevalent in Victoria’s waters thanks to its proximity to the rich marine ecosystem of the Salish Sea. The area is home to both residents and transient orca populations.

Although orcas are seen in all seasons, Victoria’s peak whale-watching season runs from July through September. In addition to orcas, visitors may also encounter humpbacks, gray whales, minke whales, sea lions, and porpoises.

Whale-watching tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbor, with Prince of Whales (POW) being an ethical operator. POW offers zero waste tours, uses vessels with minimal noise, and has diminished their carbon footprint.

So, whether staying in Victoria or arriving at the Ogden Point Port on a cruise, whale watching here provides an unforgettable experience.

There are a few choices for watercraft. The zodiacs are smaller and provide more speed, but with no protection, guests must wear full-body waterproof suits. The larger catamarans are slower but offer more stability and give freedom to move around without fear of sea sickness.

Often, these tours include knowledgeable naturalists who provide fascinating insights into the behavior, biology, and conservation efforts surrounding these marine giants. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Victoria offers one of the most rewarding whale-watching experiences on the West Coast.

Walvis Bay, Namibia

The Skeleton Coast in Namibia is famous for being awash with shipwrecks. You may not have realised that it’s also fantastic for whale watching.

Between July and November, hundreds of humpback whales make their way up Africa’s southwestern coast on their journey from their Antarctic feeding grounds to their breeding grounds off the coast of West Africa. This is the perfect time of year to view them in Namibia.

Walvis Bay is the largest harbour on Namibia’s coastline and is the perfect launch for a catamaran cruise, where you can expect to see an abundance of marine wildlife. Spending a morning on the water is an excellent addition to a Namibia road trip.

Within the Walvis Bay lagoon, you can expect to see pelicans and an abundance of Cape fur seals. Large colonies of seals can be found on the sandy peninsula that surrounds the harbour, and it’s a real delight to hear their chatter and see them flounder about playfully in the waters.

Once you head out to open water, you have the chance to see whales and dolphins. We were fortunate enough to see countless dusky dolphins, some of which enjoyed bow riding which was a joy to witness. There are several types of dolphins that you can encounter here: bottlenose, Heaviside’s, and dusky dolphins. The absolute highlight of the cruise was coming across two humpback whales. Watching them go for their deep dives and raise their huge tails was magical. If you’re lucky, you may encounter other types of whales too; southern right whales, gray whales, and pygmy right whales can be seen here.

There are a number of different companies that offer catamaran cruises in Walvis Bay. I booked mine with Catamaran Charters and was impressed with their service.

What was most important for me was that the experience was ethical. There were only a small number of boats out at once, and each boat visited a different seal colony, so that the seals were never surrounded or stressed. We then kept our distance from them. When the dolphins made an appearance, again, each boat kept their distance so the dolphins never once were restricted in their movements. They chose to come closer – it was never the other way around. Finally, when we came across the whales, we didn’t get too close, and we didn’t stay with them for long either. There was only one other boat watching them with us so the experience felt peaceful.

Final Thoughts

The world offers an abundance of extraordinary locations for whale watching, each providing a unique window into the lives of these magnificent creatures. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic landscapes of Antarctica, the intriguing coastlines of South Africa, or the tranquil waters surrounding Okinawa, responsible whale watching ensures that these experiences remain as awe-inspiring for future generations as they are today. By choosing ethical tour operators and respecting the marine environment, we can all contribute to the conservation of whales, allowing us to continue cherishing these unforgettable encounters with nature’s gentle giants.