PhOtOs-Majestic Humpback Whales are BACK
 

A Close Encounter with the Majestic Humpback Whales
-in the Bay of Samana, Dominican Republic


From Mid January Until Mid April Every Year


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The humpback whales are regular visitors to the Bay of Samana. Every year from mid-January until mid-April these huge mammals leave the Arctic to mate and give birth in the protected bay along the Dominican Republic's east coast.


The whales have been wintering in this region for centuries.
This is evidenced by old Taino cave paintings in the nearby "Los Haitises" National Park which depict blowing whales.


The humpback whale is a water mammal known for their liveliness and their singing. They can attain a length of 15 meters and weight of up to 30 tons.
Their huge front flippers (pectoral fins) can reach one-third of their body length for an impressive display. Before diving, humpback whales bend their backs in the form of a hump and lift their tails high out of the water, hence their name.


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There are few things as exciting as watching free-range whales. You can trace and observe these animals from close range, however to ensure the whales' survival, strict guidelines and directives are adhered to. CEBSE (the Center for Conservation and Eco-Development Samana and its Environs).


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It is due to maintaining these guidelines each year that the whales -especially the juveniles- become more bold and accustomed to the boats and their joyful behavior can be seen from excellent vantage points. Strict minimum distances are observed to ensure the safety of both the whales and the boat passengers.


Videos:

Majestic Humpback Whales in the Bay of Samana, Dominican Republic



Beautiful Whale Song





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I have recently watched the whales arriving to begin their birthing season folks, and its something you will never forget.
They are so happy, and playful with all the tourist boats and you can hear them singing... Breathtaking! - Ladybbird

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