Experience the thrill of whale watching in Bar Harbor, Maine, where rare Northern Right and Humpback whales were spotted during a scenic autumn tour.
Leading a recent Naturetrek tour titled "Autumn Colours of New England," I had the opportunity to engage with the natural beauty of Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire. A standout event was our whale watching trip from Bar Harbor in Acadia National Park, despite concerns of rough seas due to heavy swells that had previously led to cancellations.
Thankfully, luck was on our side. The large catamaran departed the dock at 11 AM, cutting through the waves at 30 knots. As we ventured out, the wind whipped through us, prompting many, including myself, to keep our hoods up and huddle against the harsh conditions. Though the cabin offered warmth, the deck stayed busier with eager wildlife watchers hoping for their first glimpse of marine life.
Learning as We Observe
With a knowledgeable marine ecologist on board providing commentary, we quickly learned about the local wildlife. Our 60-mile journey north into Canadian waters led to sightings of Harbour Porpoise, Short-beaked Common Dolphins, and Atlantic White-sided Dolphins, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
As we approached the Bay of Fundy, our phones buzzed with greetings signaling our entry into Canadian waters. Suddenly, a shout from Martin Pitt, one of the tour leaders, drew our attention—he spotted a whale blow! In excitement, we focused in on the area marked by moving white water, where a depth change from 600 feet to 200 feet occurred, signaling a prime feeding zone for whales.
A Rare Encounter with Northern Right Whales
It was in this area that we were treated to the sight of two rare Northern Right Whales. With only about 350 of these magnificent creatures remaining worldwide, seeing them was an extraordinary moment. The boat powered down, and we maintained a respectful distance while the whales exhibited playful behaviors, including head pops and dives showcasing their tail flukes.
This sighting was undeniably a “mega moment” for whale watching enthusiasts, as the whales performed for around 30 minutes before we gently moved on in hopes of additional encounters.
Continuing our expedition, we next spotted both Humpback and Fin whales. The sheer excitement was palpable as multiple whales surfaced around us, creating a spectacle of blows and tail flukes. Observing the sheer size of three Fin whales—second only to the Blue whale—was an unforgettable experience. From the upper deck, the view of these colossal animals swimming below was awe-inspiring.
Cherished Memories Captured
As the day unfolded, we logged approximately 12 to 15 individual Humpback whales in various stages of feeding and playing. The activity put us in a delightful quandary, as we tried to capture images while witnessing the whales blow and dive simultaneously in every direction.
Here are some images from the day that barely scratch the surface of the beauty we encountered:
As we returned from our whale watching trek after about 90 minutes in close proximity to these incredible creatures, the sense of fulfillment and joy among passengers was palpable. We prioritized ethical watching practices, ensuring that the whales were able to forage without pressure from our vessel. The return journey felt much more pleasant, with the wind at our backs easing the chill from earlier.
Birdwatching Along the Way
While whales took center stage, some birdlife also caught our attention on the way back. Here's a glimpse of a couple of notable birds that made appearances:
The experience of whale watching in Bar Harbor, Maine, was a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of marine life. If you get a chance, I highly recommend the Bar Harbor Whale Watching Company. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. If you're interested in a comprehensive nature experience, consider exploring Naturetrek's "Autumn Colours of New England" tour annually.
