The dashing waves, belly flops, and saltwater sprays are like nature’s circus. To be sure, the heart-stopping thrill of a humpback showing off his acrobatics is something that dreams are made of. Forget about lions and tigers; here it’s all about fins and flukes!
Lahaina, once a quiet whaling village, now yields one of the most spectacular marine spectacles on earth. The warmth of shallow waters calls these ocean giants just like a neon “Vacancy” sign January is the peak season, whale enthusiasts call it Super Bowl for whales. The whales get quite an audience! The pre-expedition briefing is a rehashing of the ground rules. You climb on board a boat, the salty air fluffing out your hair into a frenzy. The guide tells how one day he saw two whales dancing in perfect synchronization, creating waves like Olympic competitors. Through the crowd runs a ripple of laughter. Who could guess whales are such comedians?
As the vessel slices through the cerulean waves, everyone’s eyes seek cover. A sudden shout reverberates and points are jabbed in the distance. “There she blows!” As if on cue, the cameras begin to fire, a busyness of fast and furious clicks recording the dance. Imagine popping your head out of your aquatic mansion only to be papped by tourists. The whale life, eh?
When a humpback breaches, it is a still point in time. The huge body curls gracefully, water drops shining for a moment as jewels in the air. Then comes the splash! thunderous applause of nature. A chorus of gasps and cheers sounds together. Whales do indeed manage to take centre stage effortlessly!
Nor is that all the fun of your whale-watching experience. Perhaps a school of dolphins will come and run alongside, playing with you in the saltwater. Their antics may well turn an otherwise ordinary day into the highlight of months to come.
Lahaina’s whale watching isn’t just about the big splashes and tail flicks. It is also experiencing a silent awe, a quiet reminder of the grandeur of the ocean-and, maybe, mulling over whether or not your camera actually got that perfect shot. So pack up your spirit of adventure and a sense of wonder; the gentle giants await!