Encounter stunning whales in New Brunswick

You’ll meet a lot of friendly characters in New Brunswick. The locals are quick with a wave and a smile on the road, and the tour guides love to share their Maritime home. Oh, and then there’s the 12 species of exuberant whales that live off the coast in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence.

 

These marine mammals are gentle giants, more than willing to share the waters with the boats and eager visitors who come to say hello. Words can’t describe the feeling of seeing a 12-metre whale surface next to you and blow a misty spout of water over your head. Seeing that split tail rise out of the bay, hearing it slap against the water, is a moment in time you’ll never forget.

 

Here are some of the best ways to go on an unforgettable first date with these massive animals.

Adventurers may encounter whales in a speedy, eight-metre Zodiac Hurricane. The Whales by Zodiac(TM) tour takes you into whale feeding grounds. The real excitement hits when a 20-metre finback whale sends a 10-metre-high spout of salty water into the air and the wind tosses it right back into the boat. That's what the old salts call a 'Fundy facial!'

Maybe you'd rather travel back in time, and experience the same wonder at seeing whales as some of the first European explorers. Hop on a replica tall ship from the 19th century, the Jolly Breeze. Set sail and see if you can't spot a marine wonder from the deck.

 

No matter how you choose to experience New Brunswick's whales, make sure you bring your camera for that Facebook-perfect shot. Left it behind? Never fear - you're guaranteed memories that will last a lifetime.

 

To start planning your whale watching excursion, visit the Tourism New Brunswick website.