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Every year from December to March, Banderas Bay witnesses a natural spectacle that few places on Earth can rival: the arrival of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) from Northern America. These gentle giants migrate thousands of miles from their feeding grounds in the North Pacific to these warm, protected Mexican waters to mate and give birth.
Seeking to deepen our understanding of these “big-winged” cetaceans, we joined Oceanologist Oscar Frey, Captain Lucio, and the Ocean Friendly Tours team for an educational journey departing from Marina Vallarta aboard the Mundo Silencioso.
Our expedition began at the Los Peines dock, where the crew provided a warm welcome and essential safety briefings. As we cleared the marina around 9 a.m., entering the expansive reaches of Banderas Bay, we were treated to tranquil waters, a serene sunrise, and a unique maritime perspective of the Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone.
Encounters with Giants
During the tour, we encountered approximately 12 humpback whales, traveling both in solitude and in dynamic groups. We were mesmerized by their iconic behaviors:
- Breaching: Watching a 40-ton whale propel its entire body out of the water is a breathtaking display of power.
- Tail Slapping: Also known as lobtailing, this percussive behavior is often used for communication or play.
- Imposing Presence: Seeing their massive size up close—roughly the length of a school bus—is truly humbling.
Marine Life & Soundscapes
Beyond the whales, we spotted several pods of dolphins. Orcas (the apex predators of the ocean) are also occasional visitors to the bay.
A highlight of the trip was the Mundo Silencioso’s specialized hydrophone system. This allows attendees to listen to the complex, haunting songs of the males. Scientists believe these “songs” are a vital part of their mating rituals, consisting of rhythmic patterns that can be heard for miles underwater.
Onboard Hospitality
To keep our energy up, a fresh lunch was served on deck, featuring seasonal fruit, homemade granola bars, and roasted turkey breast paninis with crisp lettuce and tomatoes, accompanied by a variety of refreshments. Everything was taken care of by the crew, providing a pleasant experience.
Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat—free and protected—is a profound experience that reminds us of the ocean’s raw beauty and fragility. For more information on Ocean Friendly Tours, visit their website, follow their Facebook or Instagram pages.
Photos and video by Max Buendía
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
