Get up close and personal with a Humpback during whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta
Come December the sounds of Humpback whale song can be heard once again in the protected waters of Banderas Bay. These behemoths of the deep return to the breeding and calving grounds off Puerto Vallarta in December and stay until their newborns are strong enough to begin their migration northwards to the rich feeding grounds off Alaska in March. Their presence in the bay provides locals and tourists alike the opportunity to go whale watching in Puerto Vallarta.
There are lots of companies offering whale watching tours in Puerto Vallarta but before we get into that let’s have a look at some typical whale behaviour you may to see on a whale watching tour.
Breaching- The most spectacular of all whale behaviour, the whale launches itself out of the water and lands on its side sending a massive spray of water into the air. This behaviour may be a warning, a way of attracting a mate or simply having fun.
Fin Slapping- The whale lies on its side and smacks its huge pectoral fin on the surface of the water repeatedly.
Spy Hopping- When the whale raises its head out of the water, normally vertically to have a look at what is going on around them. Whales on the move will turn on their side with one eye out of the water to have a look.
Lob Tailing- The whale raises its fluke or tail out of the water and slams it down onto the surface of the water. It is usually a repetitive movement considered to be a sign of aggression or way of foraging.
Hopefully on a whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta you get to see all of this typical whale behaviour but be warned seeing a whale is not always guaranteed and if you do see one they might not be in the mood to perform. Ok now we’re going to have a look at some of the best whale watching companies in Puerto Vallarta.
Ocean Friendly Whale Watching Tours- Daily and customised tours offering the opportunity to discover the magnificent marine life of Banderas Bay. Tours last between 4.5- 5 hours and fill up very quickly so book early.
Wildlife Connection- A combined whale and dolphin watching tour. The tour lasts 4.5 hours and the price includes breakfast/lunch and a bilingual guide.
Eco Tours- This tour offers the opportunity to participate in the Banderas Bay whale research Project. Two tours daily lasting 4 hours each.
All tours are bilingual and include a hydrophone so you can listen to the sounds of whale song aboard the boat. Whale watching in Puerto Vallarta is sure to be the highlight of your trip.
James – Marketing Team
