Whale & Wildlife Report | Jan 5-11, 2024
PC: Andrew Aggergaard
Highlights
Humpback whales
Hawaiian spinner dolphins
Bottlenose dolphins
Pantropical spotted dolphins
Tiger shark
Monk seal
Green sea turtles
Whale & Wildlife Report | Jan 5-11, 2024
A swell week (literally)! With bigger waves and motion to the ocean, we had some exciting whale watching adventures. The skies also cleared during a couple tours, allowing us great views of the surrounding volcanoes! Our wildlife sightings began in the harbor with honu, monk seals, and a tiger shark. We’re always on the lookout for marine life at the dock and throughout our excursions.
PC: Olivia Miller
We encountered multiple mom and calf pairs near the fish pens this week! It’s always fun to find whales so close to home. An escort often accompanied the duos, and we watched one particularly pushy male keeping mom on her toes. We also enjoyed lots of bouncing babies who warmed our hearts with their little breaches. It was great to see a mix of newborn calves and others quickly gaining their strength. Mom occasionally showed them how it's done, launching herself fully out of the water in a dramatic display that left our jaws on the floor!
PC: Olivia Miller
As we enter the heart of the humpback season, the whales are showing up in full force. Sometimes we get glimpses of blows in the distance, which is a great opportunity to drop our hydrophone and have a listen. Kona’s waters are hosting an underwater symphony, and we heard so many humpbacks singing beneath the waves! There were powerful vocalists in the mix and our guests were wowed by their loud volume.
PC: Olivia Miller
There was no shortage of surface activity, especially from male competition pods. Up north, the star of the week was a humpback who must have breached at least 25 times. What a crazy sight! We watched other whales pec slapping, tail throwing, and clearly trying to make a scene at the surface. A couple of our trips also encountered curious whales, and we were treated to some great passes!
PC: Olivia Miller
Of our many dolphin encounters, our favorites included both dolphins and humpbacks together! Offshore, we found a jumble of Pantropical spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and humpback whales. Further inshore, we had multiple sightings of lively Hawaiian spinner dolphins and whales. It was awesome to see the energetic dolphins porpoising, jumping, and spinning alongside active humpbacks!
Interested in experiencing these tours?
Hawaiian Adventure’s tours provide the best opportunity to explore Kona’s coast and the wildlife beneath the waves. Our top-notch vessels, experienced crew, and oceanic expertise will make your Big Island adventure unforgettable.
If you’ve been on other tours, you’ll appreciate the Hawaiian Adventures difference.
