Whale Watching Season for Humpback Whales
The biggest bummer to any whale watching trip is, of course, not seeing any whale at all. While this may seem unlikely, there are actually instances when these gentle giants are nowhere to be seen in their usual areas of congregation. To avoid such an experience, it’s always wise to schedule your cruise during the usual times whales are seen playing in the waters of Los Angeles. While you can see specific whale species all-year round, it is best to book for humpback whales sightseeing cruises in Long Beach CA during summer and fall (April to June) and winter-spring (November to March). Winter (early June-late September) is when humpbacks usually migrate from the Arctic region, while they are especially playful during mating season. Humpback whales are particularly seen along the coastline of Los Angeles, so the area is among the best spots in the country to see these gentle giants in their habitat.
So, what can you expect to see and observe during a whale watching cruise? Here is a short list:
- Social behavior. Humpbacks travel in small groups (usually composed of two to three adult whales), hunt together, and touch fins as a likely way of showing endearment (between mother and their young).
- Breaching. This unique whale behavior involves humpbacks jumping out of the water and creating a big splash going back. It is believed that whales breach to either remove parasites from their bodies or have fun with fellow whales. You will likely see the humpbacks perform this maneuver during your trip.
- Songs. Male humpback whales are likewise known to ‘sing’ haunting songs that usually last for several hours. Scientific studies point out that males do this to ‘lure’ females into mating.
- Diet. Humpbacks typically eat krill, small fish, and planktons. Summer is their feeding season, while their fasting season is during the winter. Their blubber reserve is enough to keep them full during the long winter months.
Los Angeles' Top Whale Sightseeing Cruise Company
When it comes to providing the best whale sightseeing cruise in Los Angeles, Harbor Breeze Cruises is on top of the competition. First, we have well-maintained and appropriately equipped boats (catamarans) that can guarantee a safe, fun, and enjoyable journey. Our catamarans have viewing decks, life jackets, modern navigation and communication equipment, and other provisions for an unforgettable travel. Our humpback whales sightseeing cruises in Long Beach CA are specifically designed to maximize the possibility of seeing and interacting with these magnificent marine creatures.
Moreover, our captain and crews are highly experienced in doing whale watching cruises, particularly those dedicated for humpback whale sightseeing. We have a marine expert on board, a licensed captain, and courteous crews to make sure that you will be comfortable and well-informed throughout the cruise. Additionally, as a certified company, we have all the permits and licenses to offer humpback whales sightseeing cruises in Long Beach CA. Our rates are likewise budget-friendly, so clients can tag along their friends or bring their entire family for an unforgettable whale sightseeing tour.
If you wish to book now or inquire about our rates, please feel free to call us at 310-547-9916. See you soon on your scheduled cruise!
Info: Humpback Whales are part of the baleen whale family. Known scientifically as Megaptera novaeangliae, humpback whales can weigh up to 80,000 lbs. and can reach lengths ranging from 40 to 50 feet. Humpback whales have a very distinctive look with their bumpy head and very long dorsal fins. Humpback whales are very athletic. It is not uncommon to see a humpback whale breach the surface of the ocean. Male humpbacks are noted for their singing. they will oftentimes sing upwards to 10 to 20 minutes and repeat the song for hours. There is no explanation for the singing, however it is believed to be part of the mating ritual. Southern California Humpback Whale Population Humpback whale populations, as with other whales, have been depleted over the years due to whale hunting. At one point, the population fell approximately 90 percent before the 1966 whaling moratorium. While humpback whale populations have increased to about 80,000, they still remain vulnerable to collisions with ships, getting tangled in fishing equipment and noise pollution.