For many people, seeing a whale in their natural habitat is on the bucket list. Luckily for you, there are certain places that will greatly increase the chances of this coming true. Have a read below to find out where you’ll have the best chance of making your dreams a reality!

Vancouver Island, Canada

To have a glimpse at orca’s, grey, humpback or minke whales, head to Vancouver Island, where there are tens of thousands of whales which pass through, many during the spring. As well as this you will see a range of other wildlife. The best times to go are between March and April to see the grey whales, and May to September for the orca’s. 

Iceland

Known for its whale watching experiences, the North Atlantic is great feeding ground, and trips run all the time from Reykjavik and Husavik. You have the chance to see minke, humpback, sperm and blue whales amongst the dolphins and puffins. May to August is the prime time to visit to increase your chances of seeing these natural beauties in their habitats. 

Kaikoura, New Zealand

The deep waters of Kaikoura combine warm and cool currents in which at certain times of the year you will have the chance to see Orca whales between December and March, Humpback’s around June and July and occasionally Pilot whales or blue whales in June to September. If you are lucky enough, you’ll get to see the world’s smallest dolphin known as Hector’s dolphin, which you will only be able to find in New Zealand’s waters. This is a once in a lifetime experience that can’t be missed if you are visiting New Zealand. 

Tromso, Norway

You will find your ideal spot to whale watch in the Arctic Circle in Tromso. Be prepared for the cold, as its during the chilly winter months that you’ll be able to spot orcas and humpbacks. Magnetic Travel North even offer an Arctic Spa Boat, where you sleep and enjoy the Northern Lights during the winter months. There is a sauna on board, as well as a hot tub on deck which you can watch the whales from! Along with a personal chef, for a slightly upmarket yet chilly whale watching experience, visiting Tromso is definitely for you. 

Hermanus, South Africa

Rather than having to take a boat trip to see any whales, you can simply enjoy the view as a stretch of 7 mile coast offers unobstructed views of the whales cruising down the coat. The warm and shallow waters make the perfect home for these whales from May right through to November, with an annual festival drawing in over a hundred thousand visitors. For an up close experience, boat trips are available, but you will see spectacular views from the land also. Although you have a chance of seeing whales for a big portion of the year, you are almost guaranteed to see whales in September, October and November. For those of you who are brave enough, experience a guided kayaking trip to give you a unique and adrenaline filled experience.