Whale season is just around the corner and I’m getting ready to reserve my spot on another sunset catamaran whale watching cruise, which offers one of the best ways to see Humpbacks up close.
Humpback whales migrate to the Hawaiian islands every year between November and May to play, mate and give birth. Their presence is evident through their tail slaps and full-body breaches out at sea. These massive creatures can make an impressive splash that can be readily seen from shore, but to witness their grandeur from a boat on the ocean is an unforgettable experience.
Last year my friend and I climbed aboard one of Capt. Andy’s luxury catamaran at Poipu’s Kukuiula harbor in the late afternoon. The sea was gentle and the breeze was just beginning to cool. As we headed out towards the coast of Mahaulepu, dolphins joined us and surfed the waves coming off the bow of the boat. Standing at the rail, it felt like I could almost reach down and touch these playful, spirited creatures. Dolphins seem to make everyone happy and smiles abounded all around.
After the magic of the dolphin encounter, I almost forgot about the whales. I knew that the crew could not promise we’d see them and even if we did, it was up to the whales if they would really give us a show. As I sipped a Mai Tai and watched the setting sun I took in the beauty of Kauai from the ocean’s perspective, mesmerized. Suddenly, a huge whale began to lift its entire body, vertically, out of the water, splashing down in a massive wave of white wash. We were in awe. The crew positioned the boat for the best vantage, careful not to get too close to these rare animals. Again and again the whale breached as I tried to snap a few pictures. Though I got a few good shots, they hardly compare to have actually been there and felt the magnitude of the enormous and powerful Humpback whale.
When the whale activity dissipated and passengers began to get snacks and more cocktails, the sky turned a brilliant tangerine. Musicians on board brought out a guitar and ukulele and serenaded us back towards the harbor. A mother and daughter inspired by the Mai Tais and the music, joined together for some hula as we all relaxed into the sunset and the tropical breezes.
This season, as I make my preparations for another whale watching sunset cruise, I’ve decided to rent one of the many Poipu condos on the South Shore of Kauai. With the Kukuiula harbor located in Poipu, I’ll be able to avoid a long drive back to the North shore and make the most of my trip to Kauai’s South side. My plan is to disembark from my sunset cruise and make the short drive to my getaway condo, where I’ll freshen up to go enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in Poipu.
For friends that visit Kauai in the winter months, I often recommend they stay in Poipu, which is known to be one of the sunnier shores of the island. Its location offers the beauty of the ocean, with the mountains of Kokee not too far away. There are numerous Kauai vacation homes, condos and hotels in the area. If you do come to Kauai between November and May, make sure you take a sail at sea. You just might have the incredible and rare experience of seeing the Humpback whale up close.
Learn more about whale watching in Hawaii.
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