August 2023:  So far, it has been an incredible humpback whale year for the Kisawa guests and team to experience. The daily whale count is now averaging in the 60 – 80 range and some days we see easily over 100!

The humpbacks seem to be giving birth at increasing rate over the last week. We went from observing 1 or 2 newborns a day (July – early August), to seeing 5 or 6 from mid August onwards. Two days ago, a 1-2 day old calf popped up to the surface, with the mother helping it breach to breathe.

Whale groups have also been increasing, but starting to move south, fast, and likely peaking sometime in September. Juvenile whales are seen jumping everywhere, and a lot of close-up natural encounters have occurred where the whales have drifted towards our boat and checked us out with curiosity.

The whales have also been interested in our divers, checking in on them during safety stops at 5 meters during BCSS deep dives.

Update courtesy of BCSS chief scientist, Dr Mario Lebrato.

Visit Wonder of Whales to explore the best way to experience this whale wonderland right up until mid October.