Whales are the world’s largest mammals, extraordinary creatures which can weigh up to 200 tonnes and reach an incredible 30 m in length. It might amaze you to learn that they were once land-based animals: their evolutionary journey took them into the seas and oceans around 40 million years ago. Their closest living relative is the hippopotamus, so you can have a vague idea of what a walking whale might have looked like!
From Free Willy to SeaWorld, whales have huge presence in our culture, but thankfully the waves of popular opinion are changing and it is no longer as acceptable to keep these majestic creatures in captivity. Nothing compares with seeing whales in their natural ocean habitat, whether you watch them from the coast or a boat.
Many whale species migrate thousands of kilometres each year, so there are plenty of locations where you can see them. We have chosen a few of our favourites.
Whale migrations mean it is important to plan your whale watching trip carefully: you need to be in the right place at the right time. Our team of expert Journeysmiths will recommend the very best places to go, and will also share recommendations for other marine wildlife experiences, from cage diving with sharks to coastal walks among colonies of penguin.
