Antarctic Whales

Humpback whale close to zodiac

Towards the end of the Antarctic season (late February and March) whales seem to become more visible.  Possibly as they’ve been feeding for several months and now having ‘filled up’ they have more free time to be inquisitive of the other visitors in zodiacs.  Several ship operators offer special whale focused expeditions at this time where you will joined by several world-renowned cetacean (whale) and marine mammal specialists.

They share with you unique underwater footage and scientific data, and help us interpret the behaviour, migration characteristics and feeding patterns of adult whales and their calves. For those with a passion for whales this unique voyage should not be missed.  In addition to whales you should also see Weddell, crabeater, leopard and elephant seals and three species of penguin (Adelie, gentoo & chinstrap)

As part of this unique expedition, you will be taught methods for documenting whale numbers, help conduct photographic surveys to determine movement patterns and identify individual animals, and help locate and document the behaviour of whales that have been previously outfitted with satellite tracking devices.

Humpback whale

Spy-hopping Humpback whale

Orcas often hunt seals as a team creating a bow wave to wash the seal into the ocean

March represents a critical time for whales in Antarctic waters as they feed on the vast krill swarms to build energy stores for either a long migration to tropical breeding grounds or to maintain their energy as they struggle to survive in the ice-choked waters that soon will encapsulate the region.

For humpback whales, there is growing evidence that while many whales migrate, some remain in areas that remain ice-free for long periods of time due to warming climates.  Ships will cruise through several of the bays that are the focus of long-term and unique research projects to determine how the abundance of whales changes throughout the course of the Antarctic summer; possibly including the Lemaire Channel, Wilhelmina Bay and Petermann Island.

You will also search for the elusive and cryptic minke whale in the far reaches and ice-choked passes and bays where they spend most of their time.  We will try to determine if there are patterns that emerge from the habitats where we find minke whales versus where they are absent.

One reason for why these whales may not occur in open water is because of the threat of the greatest ocean predator, the Orca.  Hopefully you will find Orcas as they patrol the coastal waters for seals, whales, and penguins that make up their diet.  On the ship or in zodiacs you’ll try to follow killer whales as they hunt and will document the unique strategies and techniques they have adapted for different prey in Antarctica (e.g. creating a bow wave to wash seals off small icebergs).

Humpback whale blow

There is the chance you will encounter others species of whale, including the world’s first and second largest mammals, the blue (1^st), fin (2^nd) & sei.

These expeditions are truly unique in that it will allow you to experience the Antarctic and learn about the ecosystem and the great whales that are an icon of ocean health.  As well, you will have the opportunity to work closely with leading researchers as they seek to learn about, conserve, and protect Antarctica and its inhabitants.

Fin whale from ship

To book a voyage to Antarctica contact us on 1300 784 794 or email us at: contact@antarcticatravelcentre.com.au.