Sure, there’s whale watching in Alaska and Massachusetts. But do you know about the amazing Bermuda whale watching experiences available? During the thick of whale migration season, which occurs each year between March and April, nearly 10,000 humpback whales pass through Bermuda’s waters. That’s right: the island isn’t just a favorite vacation destination for people.
Many often forget that Bermuda is smack dab in the North Atlantic. The island is about 600 miles perpendicular to the coast of North Carolina. Additionally, it's located in the crossways of a major migratory path. Even more interesting, local marine biologists have seen an uptick in humpback numbers over the years and are finding them in some shallower areas where they seem to be relaxing or resting.
Eagle-eyed visitors can spot whales coming to the surface from various vantage points from Bermuda’s shore. But the best way to experience humpbacks is to head for the open seas on a whale watching trip. You’ll sail miles out to spot humpbacks from the deck or, in some cases, through a glass-bottomed hull. Bermuda’s sparkling turquoise waters are even more crystal clear than usual in the spring, which means superb visibility (up to 100 feet below the surface). Companies and organizations that offer Bermuda whale watching trips include: the Island Tour Centre, Fantasea Diving & Watersports and Blue Water Divers & Watersports.
More information on whale watching in Bermuda can be found here.
On the ecotourism front beyond whales, Bermuda doesn’t disappoint. Take an excursion to Trunk Island (a “Living Classroom” owned by the Bermuda Zoological Society) and/or Nonsuch Islands to see cahows. Researchers thought this extremely rare petrel seabird was extinct until just a few years ago. The destination also teems with a variety of conservations experts.
Head to the Bermuda Department of Environment and Natural Resources to learn more.