Summer and Fall 2024 Seasons of the Blue Whale out of Bodega Bay

Guest Post by Captain Christian Pebbles:

In my many years of operating my vessel out of Bodega Bay on the Pacific Ocean, the great Blue Whale has been a rare sighting. This year has been extremely different. While searching for Humpback Whales on my tours I was surprised by the number of Blue Whales spotted. Blue whales are the largest animals ever to live on our planet. They feed exclusively on krill and off the coast of Bodega Bay there have been a lot of krill which is why they are here. North Pacific Blue Whales can grow up to about ninety feet and are over 100,000 pounds. When you see one you are in awe but when you hear one, well, it can raise the hair on your arms. I have had clients scream with excitement from this sound. I believe the sound when the Whale exhales (spouts or blows) is the connection between them and us. 

 Spotting a Blue Whale from the Bodega Head might be difficult since their primary food source (krill) is mostly found offshore. However, their spout is significantly higher (up to 35 ft) than the other Whales we see outside of Bodega Bay such as the Humpback, Gray, and Minke Whales. It is possible to see them on a clear, calm ocean when and if the krill moves close enough. 

This is also the season for our Humpback Whales, often spotted from the Bodega Head. From my experience, the humpback whale population has been increasing over the years. They are always exciting to see, often breaching, tail slapping, pec slapping (pectoral fin slapping) and of course diving, showing us their beautiful fluke.

If you’re looking for plans in Bodega Bay and the Whales pique your interest you have two options in my opinion. First, up close and personal. There are several Whale Watching vessels with experienced Captains that can take you to the Whales. There you can see and hear them up close. Second, the Bodega Head. Although it does not give you the up close and personal experience it is the next best option to see the Whales. It is also a popular location for many visitors to our wonderful Bodega Bay.

I hope you get an opportunity to share the beauty of the Blue Whales and the Humpback Whales as they pass through Bodega Bay this season. If not, the Gray Whales will return in January through March.

As always, safe travels.
Captain Christian Pebbles
Bodega Bay Whale Charters
www..bodegabaywhalecharters.com