We arrived at Petermann Island early in the morning, and while the kayak guides still didn't feel the ocean conditions were right for our first paddle of the trip, we were relieved to hear that excursions were going forward otherwise. We suited up in our waterproof pants and regulation yellow parkas and joined our zodiac group to explore Petermann Island. Our group was cruising first and landing second, and we couldn't have been more excited - especially when our zodiac guide, Nicole, said as we boarded the small boat: "Who wants to go see some whales?" There was a rousing cheer, and she said, "Good, because I was taking you over there whether you wanted to see whales or not!" We all laughed.
A few other zodiacs were already in the water, floating quietly while a group of humpback whales surfaced and dove for their all-you-can-eat krill banquet.
The whales were busily eating, but they took a moment to wave to us.
I couldn't get enough of the spectacular iceberg backdrop, either.
I'll let the pictures speak for themselves for a minute, shall I?
A spout!
A fluke!
Dorsals!
Pictures hardly do these creatures justice: it's impossible to capture in an image - and nearly impossible to convey in words - how massive and majestic they are. My friends and coworkers love to joke about my whale obsession (I recently painted my kitchen cabinets "whale grey" based entirely on the color name... to quote a work friend, "Because OF COURSE you did.") but to see them is to love them. I fell in love with these magical beings at six years old and they've had my heart and imagination ever since.
After we'd watched the whales feeding for awhile, Nicole decided we should probably cruise around and see some more of the island. We bid the whales a reluctant goodbye and started to look at the scenery - but just as we were about to leave, Nicole said: "Oh, I see a little rostrum poking out over there." The whales were spyhopping! Clearly, we couldn't leave.
Whale, hello there!
I'm whaley glad to see you too!
It's krill nice to meet you! (I'll show myself out.)
I had intended to do one post about Petermann Island, but as I uploaded my pictures - only the best ones, mind - I realized there were too many. So we'll save the penguins and seals for another post, and really do them justice. I know that none of you was mad about more whales.
Next week: still exploring Petermann Island - some synchronized diving, a very rude Adelie, a very chonky Weddell seal, and more!
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