We pushed north today just about as far as our range allows and spotted a HUGE spout blowing on the horizon. When we caught up, it turned out to be an ENORMOUS fin whale — easily 80 feet long, longer than our 62‑ft vessel that carries up to 114 passengers on deck!
This whale was in full “surface mode,” spending long stretches topside and surfacing RIGHT next to the boat multiple times. We recognized this individual immediately — it has an old entanglement scar that makes it unmistakable. Looks like it’s shifted its chill zone into the depths of the La Jolla Canyon, probably hanging out right where the peak upwelling hits.
Absolutely unforgettable encounter with one of the fastest, largest animals on Earth.
Naturalist, Alison
