Friday, 14 March 2025
As we set sail into the chilly waters, the temperature was hovering around 6 degrees, with a southwest wind gently guiding us on our journey. We were northeast of Hrísey, with the horizon stretching out before us, but our focus was elsewhere—on the water, always scanning for the incredible creatures we hoped to spot.
And then, it happened. A whale blow! We had been waiting for this moment, and there it was, a clear sign of a whale’s presence beneath the surface. But what made this moment truly special wasn’t just seeing the humpback whale; it was hearing it. The sound of its breath as it surfaced was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. The deep, rhythmic inhalation and exhalation echoed through the air, reminding us of the immense power of nature.
After the whale dove again, we patiently waited, as we always do, knowing that the next surfacing could be moments away. Today, we didn’t have to wait long. The whale reappeared, and this time, it greeted us with its tail, a magnificent display of strength and grace. From the way it moved, I was pretty sure it was the same whale we had seen a few days ago in this very area.
Then, a thrilling moment—this time, the whale surfaced much closer to the boat. The turquoise water beneath us shimmered, giving us a glimpse of its massive pectoral fins. The humpback whale’s pectoral fins are unique in the Atlantic Ocean. They are a stunning white, and when seen under the surface, they seem to glow turquoise, a beautiful contrast against the dark waters. In the Pacific Ocean, however, these fins are black, making it easy to distinguish between the two populations of humpback whales. It was a clear reminder of just how special these creatures are in this part of the world.
The whale’s surfacing intervals were shorter today compared to previous days, giving our guests the perfect opportunity to take in the full beauty of these majestic animals. We were lucky to witness such an intimate encounter with nature, where every moment felt like a gift. The patience required in whale watching is always rewarded, but today felt extra special. The whales, the sea, the wind—everything came together to create a truly unforgettable experience.
Nature has a way of reminding us of its power and beauty, and today was no exception. It was a day filled with wonder, and I couldn't help but feel incredibly grateful to be a part of this unforgettable adventure.
Pictures & Text: Lenka
Departure of the day: 13:00 o’clock Classic Tour.