JBK - Whale Encounters

This is the time of year when anything can happen in Jervis Bay. The water is cool, the weather is crisp and the wildlife , unbelievable. This winter has proved to boast the highest numbers of migratory whales, and this week we have had two Southern Right Whales along the Hyams Beach to Nelsons Beach strip. One of the whales is supporting her calf and the other is believed to be pregnant.

Sthn Right Whale - Headstands off Greenfields Beach

Janet and I ventured out today for our trip towards Hyams Beach and were lucky enough to spend almost three hours floating near her. Keeping a minimum distance of 100mtrs, was at times difficult as she expressed an interest in both of us and surfaced several mtrs away from both us. Although quite intimidating, she was very gentle and spent hours lying on the surface only to lay vertically with her tail in the air. Appearing also to become more animated when the whale watching boats and pleasure craft approached. The enormity of this whale was only evident when her head would stand out of the water, spyhopping to get a clear view, only to roll on her side and perform head stands.

Janet gets a close up encounter with the pregnant female Sth Right

An incredible day that reminds us of the beauty and simplicity of Sea Kayaking. As Spring and Summer approach , the paddling only gets better with more whales, dolphins, seals and penguins being sighted every year.

Rossco