Yes! Many large whale species are frequently seen close to shore and inshore waters.
In the Atlantic, North Atlantic right whales are often called the “Urban Whale” because they travels close to shore. In Hawaiʻi, humpback whale mothers often hug the coastline to keep their calves safer in shallower waters. Other large whales such as minke whales and fin whales, may venture inshore to find food and can even be occasionally sighted from shore.
Before leaving the dock, be aware of the animals you may encounter while on the water, take time to understand their behaviors and their migration patterns. Resources such as the WhaleAlert App, the See a Spout website and NOAA can provide you with information needed to safely navigate around whales and other large marine animals.
In regions where whales feed, such as New England and California, look out for areas where schools of fish may congregate, as these areas may attract feeding whales and other animals. Watch for signs of the whales on the water surface such as bubbling water or spouts that look like puffs of water in the air. Birds flocking feeding at the surface can also be signs that whales are nearby. Birds and whales often feed on the same food source.
Mariners should remain vigilant both inshore and offshore, keeping a careful watch for whales. Collisions with whales can cause costly damage to boats and potentially injure crew and passengers. Whales may be present even if you’ve never seen one on the water, so it’s important not to rely on past experience alone. Instead, take time to learn about whales and other marine animals, as you would any other navigational hazard, to help ensure a safe and responsible day on the water for both you and marine wildlife.