The giants of the sea - whale watching in Nova Scotia
Very close to the mighty mammals
Seeing and hearing a whale break through the surface of the water, launch an impressive fountain into the air and then dive back into the sea and disappear with a loud crash is an overwhelming experience. Halifax offers the ideal starting point for unforgettable whale watching in Nova Scotia - whether on the open water or from the shore. Experience the fascinating marine mammals in their natural environment and the rugged charm of the Canadian coast up close.
From Halifax to Fundy Bay and Cape Breton
There are numerous places in Nova Scotia where you can watch the majestic whales in the wild. The Bay of Fundy and Cape Breton Island in particular are considered true hotspots for this unforgettable experience and can be reached from Halifax in around four hours by car. The providers in Lunenburg and Digby are a little closer. If you don't want to drive that far, there are also several whale watching opportunities in Halifax - either on a boat tour or, if you're lucky, even from the harbour.
The best time of year for whale watching
The best time for whale watching in Canada is from June to October. During these months, the whales benefit from plenty of food and ideal conditions for rearing their calves. The chances of encountering these impressive animals are particularly high in August, as the weather is at its most stable and ideal for boat trips. If you would like to see a particular species of whale on your trip, it is best to find out in advance when this species can be found in Nova Scotia's waters.
Choosing the right provider
There is a wide range of open water whale watching in Nova Scotia. The guided tours offer a great opportunity to experience whales up close while learning about these fascinating animals, their cultural significance and their habitat. When choosing a tour operator, you should not only pay attention to the location, but also to the experience of the crew and sustainability standards. Many local operators, not necessarily the most recommended ones, offer a sighting guarantee: if you don't spot any whales, you get your money back.
Motorboat, rubber dinghy or kayak?
The most popular and comfortable way to experience whales in their natural environment is by motorboat. The trip usually takes two to four hours and offers larger groups and families with children the added comfort of a well-equipped boat. Zodiac tours on inflatable boats provide a more intense experience, allowing you to get up close and personal with the marine mammals and every wave. Sailing tours are an environmentally friendly and peaceful alternative, while adventure-seekers will be happy with kayak tours, which offer an unrivalled experience of nature.
Whale watching from land
There are also great viewpoints for whale watching from land. The Cabot Trail, a picturesque coastal highway on the island of Cape Breton, winds for around 300 kilometres along the rugged north coast and through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Travellers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the water along this route. In Pleasant Bay and Ingonish in particular, there is a good chance of spotting the elegant silhouette of a whale on the surface of the water from the shore. Minke and pilot whales are common here, and occasionally humpback whales can also be seen in their full splendour.
Protecting whales: the Marine Mammal Regulations
In Canada, there are well-developed, clear guidelines that ensure the protection of whales and minimise negative impacts on the animals and the environment. Whale watching is subject to the Marine Mammal Regulations (MMR), an integral part of the Fisheries Act. This means that only a limited number of boats are allowed on the water and a minimum distance from the animals must be strictly adhered to. Some providers are also characterised by promotional measures for nature conservation and focus on heightened awareness of the challenges of marine conservation.
Warm clothes, a camera - and patience
When travelling, make sure you book early and find out about the weather conditions. Pack warm clothing, even in the summer months it can be quite chilly on the water. It's also worth taking your camera or a good pair of binoculars on board to capture the mesmerising moment when a whale surfaces next to you and blows an impressive fountain into the air. And don't forget to be patient - whales often appear quite unexpectedly. But above all: enjoy the moment and don't try too hard to take the perfect photo ...
The whales' exciting neighbours
Even though whales take centre stage on the tours, there is a wide variety of other marine life to discover in Nova Scotia. Dolphins, including the lively Atlantic white-sided dolphin, often accompany the boats and provide unforgettable moments. Grey seals frolic in the bays and along the coasts, and with a bit of luck you may encounter the world's largest sea turtle, the leatherback turtle, or a peaceful basking shark out at sea. Meanwhile, seabirds such as puffins and gannets can be seen in the sky, elegantly circling above the waves.
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