One of the most exciting things about whale watching in Chatham, ma, is seeing some of the largest animals on the planet in their natural home. The more prepared you are for your whale watch, the more likely you will have a successful experience. Make the most of your trip by following these pointers.
Booking a Trip with a Reputable Travel Agency
Seeing whales can be a fascinating experience. Even if you don't have children, it could be a long and expensive journey. To ensure that your whale-watching excursion is memorable, do some research on the tour operators beforehand.
Arrive on time for boarding the boat, following the company's instructions. Arrive early enough to avoid the ticket line and board the plane on schedule. A too frantic start to the day can detract from your whale-watching experience, which should be enjoyable.
Weather and Marine Forecast
For some people, stormy seas and being splashed by waves when cruising are dreams come true. Even though whale watchers won't venture out if the seas are dangerous, most ship captains and crew aren't prone to motion sickness!
If you're worried about seasickness or rough seas, choose a day when the seas are as calm as possible if you plan to go Chatham whale watching. Check both the weather forecast and the marine forecast for information about the weather and conditions on the sea. You should expect a bumpy ride if severe winds or waves are forecast.
Check the Sightings
Whales are wild animals; no one can say for sure when they will see one. Some firms promise whale sightings, but this usually means they'll give you a free ticket to return the next day if you don't see any whales on the first try.
What kinds of animals have been spotted recently, and how many whales are there? You may wish to check this information out. This information can be found on the company's website. Check the website of any local whale research organizations to see if they can provide an unbiased account of current sightings.
Instead of obsessing over the number of whales you see or the specific behavior they exhibit, take in the scenery and soak up the experience as a whole. Observe everything that's going on. Breathe in the sea air and see the birds and other marine life as you make your way on the boat.
Bring a Camera
Make sure you have a camera with you to document the experience. If you're planning on photographing wildlife, carry a lot of batteries and a clear memory card or a lot of films, just in case. The usual point-and-shoot camera may not give the speed and magnification needed to acquire the best photographs, mainly if the company follows whale watch guidelines that dictate they observe whales from a safe distance.
When it comes to whale watching in Chatham, ma, the one thing you can count on is a unique experience. The first time you see a certain species, you'll likely have a very different experience the second time around!