Every day is a whale safari
August 17, 2022, was supposed to be the day I went on a whale safari, but the weather had other plans. It literally rained the entire day. Depending on the tour, it can still happen as whales don't care about the rain. But, if you're going to be in an open boat, that's a no.
I ended up taking the trip on the 19th instead which was fine because the weather was perfect. Other than our guide, we were only 4 guests on the trip. The water was calm, and the skies were clear. As we headed into the fjord, I was giddy with excitement. I had seen whales on the icefjord sail, and I had even seen whales from my hotel balcony. So, I was expecting it to be a good day.
Our guide, Claus, had told me earlier that they had been seeing whales basically every day. And I believed it. I'll also say that the icefjord is so beautiful that even if you don't see whales, you will be happy to see the icebergs standing like pillars from the water.
There is also a chance to see seabirds. Actually, I think it's near impossible not to see them. They're always around. If you're lucky, you'll get a nice glimpse and nice shots of them in the water or sitting atop the icebergs. Seals were pretty active in the fjord during my trip as well, but they dip so quickly it's hard to get a shot.
What I like about all of the tour operators in Ilulissat is that they will follow whales without harassing them. Claus always makes it a point not to get too close so as not the disturb them as they live their best lives. And I know it has to be tempting because they're such majestic creatures. They glide through the water so gracefully. I love them. Seeing whales has become something I hope to do every year.
Humpbacks
Did you know that humpbacks are the most common type of whale seen in Ilulissat? They return to the area every year often with their young. Fin whales are also present, but they are not seen as often as humpbacks.
We were fortunate to have multiple whale sightings. And like seeing the icefjord, I get excited. Every. Single. Time. What's interesting is that our guide, for all that he sees as often as he does, also gets excited. And that's something I look for in a guide, someone who is passionate about what he does.
Should you book a whale safari?
I booked this particular one because I had done one with the same guide in 2021. I was happy with that trip and the guide, so I did it again. But when I went on an icefjord sail, I also saw whales. So, I'm not sure a whale safari is necessary. That time of year is very active for whales so whether you choose a whale safari or sailing through the icefjord, there's a good chance you'll see whales no matter what. And you will be happy with whatever you choose. All of the guides I've gone out with have been the nicest people, and they're all happy when they see their guests happy. No matter what. you won't be disappointed.
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