Everything you need to know about Humpback Whales

The humpback whale is undoubtedly one of the most beloved marine mammal species on the planet. Known for their impressive size and weight, these gentle giants can reach lengths of up to 16 meters and weigh over 30,000 kilograms, making them one of the largest species of whale. They are also renowned for their incredible migratory behavior, with some traveling up to 25,000 kilometers each year.

Humpback whales are found in almost every ocean around the world, with the largest populations residing around the coasts of Antarctica, North America, and West Africa. Their astounding physical prowess enables them to jump out of the water, slap their fins and tails against the surface, and engage in a series of acrobatic displays.

Furthermore, humpback whales’ unique calls and songs are an extraordinary characteristic that males use to attract their mates during breeding season. These intelligent and social creatures are cataloged by organizations such as MERS (Marine Education and Research Society), which maintains a database of photographs of individual humpbacks, akin to our fingerprints.

During our Campbell River Whale Watching Adventures, we offer remarkable humpback encounters that will undoubtedly leave you with a renewed appreciation for these magnificent creatures. These gentle giants can typically be found in our area from May to October and then migrate to warmer waters to breed, with research tracing whales to Hawaii, Costa Rica, and even Mexico.