Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Morro Bay gets the spotlight for whale watching this fall

A story in SFGate recently highlighted Morro Bay as the "small Central Calif. harbor town [as the] epicenter for whale watching this fall."

Morro Bay is becoming a prime destination for whale watching this fall. The town may be lesser-known compared to coastal metros like Santa Barbara and Monterey, but it offers an excellent opportunity to witness whales, including giant gray whales, playful humpbacks, and even elusive orcas. 

DJ Hardy, a boat captain, mentions that Morro Bay is often overlooked because of its smaller size and somewhat remote location, but once you're on the water, it gets bustling.

Hardy notes that the prime time for whale watching in Morro Bay is from now through November, especially for humpbacks. He acknowledges that the business was a bit slower in recent years, possibly due to other recreational options during a rainy summer. However, this year has seen increased activity, with an abundance of whales.

During his tours, Hardy stays in communication with other boat captains and local whale watchers to find the best spots for passengers to spot and photograph these magnificent creatures. Sometimes, other marine life, like orcas, can influence the presence of humpbacks and other whales.

While on a boat tour, passengers may have to wait patiently for a whale to breach the surface, which can be a thrilling moment. Spotting orcas is a rarer occurrence, making it an exciting bonus for those on the tour.

The frequency of humpback breaches can vary, but they are relatively common, happening more than 50% of the time. The timing of these breaches is unpredictable, occurring when the mood strikes these majestic animals.

During one such tour, a humpback surprised everyone by leaping halfway out of the water, much to the delight of the passengers. The tour captain, Hardy, acknowledged the spectacle, and despite the lack of a coordinated callout, passengers were enthralled by the unexpected display.

As the tour continued, passengers shared their experiences, highlighting the thrill of witnessing these incredible creatures up close and the joy of being away from work and the crowds on a peaceful day in Morro Bay. Whale watching here offers a surreal and unforgettable experience that takes a moment to fully sink in.

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