Scientists predict that by 2070, we will have wiped out 50% of all non-human life forms – a frightening thought indeed – and with whales being an endangered species, if you have decided to take the opportunity to see these amazing creatures first-hand, here are some tips to aid your preparation for a whale watching trip.
- Book Early – Many people are unaware that whale watching in Sydney is a booming industry, and there are only so many vessels that are allowed to ferry people to the best spots. The best solution is to make your booking as soon as your dates are confirmed, that way, you will be sure to have a place on one of the best boats.
- Take Weather into Account – The only thing that could postpone your day out would be the weather, as unpredictable as it is, and none of the whale watching boats will go out in rough weather. Doing a little online research is never a bad idea; at least you get to know what the expected forecast is for your date.
- Dress Appropriately – You are going to be on a relatively small vessel, which will pitch, so it is essential to have gripping footwear, plus a thin wet raincoat you can slip over your jacket, and generally dress for what could be a cold and blustery experience.
- Choosing the Tour Operator – Ideally, you want a boat that has great success in locating the whales, which is usually down to the skipper, and if he has been sailing there all of his life, he knows exactly where to go. A Google search will put you in touch with a Sydney-based whale watching outfit and you can make the booking online.
- IT Stuff – Whether you’re planning to use your i-phone or a digital SLR camera, you must have a wet bag, and have more than enough SD memory, as you might just hit the jackpot and have whales breaching right and left for an entire hour! This is obviously a fantastic photo op, so be prepared and keep your devices dry and make sure the batteries are fully charged.
- Do Some Online Research – Prior to actually watching these amazing creatures, do some online research about their habits and particularly their surface behaviours, which there are many. By doing this, you will appreciate the trip so much more, as you are more knowledgeable regarding the whales and what they do. Whales are usually on their way to a location, although there are times when they stay in one place, when rearing their young, for example.
- Motion Sickness – If you’re a hardened sailor, all well and good – however, if you rarely travel on water, it might be an idea to take some motion sickness medication prior to boarding. It would be a shame if you were sick throughout the amazing experience, so consider taking precautions against motion sickness.
- Don’t Be Too Optimistic – While it is possible to have a day when you are surrounded by whale surface actions, there are blank days, and despite the best efforts of the skipper; changing locations frequently, there are days when there are no sightings.
Be realistic and hope that fortune is on your side, and even if you don’t see any whales, there’s always the next time.