If you’re planning a winter getaway to Hawaii, you’ll be thrilled to know you’re coming during the heart of Hawaii whale season! Every year, between November and May, about 12,000 humpback whales migrate to Hawaii to give birth to and nurse their offspring every year.
While you’re here, you may get lucky enough to see some of these majestic creatures from land (especially off the coast of Maui), but your best chance at seeing a pod up-close is to book a whale watching tour on Maui through Hawaii Aloha Travel.
Here are a few whale behaviors and facts that will help you when the big moment arrives, courtesy of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau:
Humpback Whale Facts
Scientific name: Megaptera novaeangliae
Type of whale: Baleen
Hawaiian name: Kohola
Weight 40-45 tons
Length 45 feet
Life span: 40-60 years
Gestation: 10-12 months
Hawaii’s Humpback Whale Population
The estimated pre-whaling population of humpbacks in Hawaiian waters was 15,000 to 20,000. Thanks to strong legislation and the efforts of dedicated organizations such as the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, these gentle giants are making a come back with an estimated 12,000 whales migrating to Hawaii every year.
Seeing a humpback whale in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. So, know your whale facts and be prepared to be awed!
Posted by: Bruce Fisher