GENTLE GIANTS

catch them making their yearly migration north is from March to April.

THOUSANDS OF HUMPBACK WHALES pass near Bermuda every spring as they make their way to their summer feeding grounds in the north Atlantic. The gentle giants can grow up to 50 feet long and often weigh upwards of 40 tons. While humpback whales have the most predictable migration patterns, occasionally, you may also spot pilot whales, sperm whales, and blue whales.

Whale Spotting

You might be one of the lucky ones to spot whales making their way north as early as January, but organised whale watching doesn’t start until springtime. The best time to

West Whale Bay Park, on the southwest coast of Bermuda, and Somerset Bridge in Hog Bay are notable hot spots for whale watching. Sally Tuckers and Challenger Bank are the best areas to see them aboard a boat.

Whale watching is a popular activity for visitors and locals. One of the best ways to get an up-close-and-personal look is by signing up for one of the island’s guided whale-watching excursions, available through tour operators like Island Tour Centre, whose knowledgeable staff can assist you (236-1300; www.islandtourcentre.com).

What to Expect

Tours typically last up to six hours and travel along the south shore of Bermuda. Whales can be quite playful, and it appears they enjoy the attention of boats passing by. As such, they’ll often swim alongside the boat, performing flips and slapping their tail and flippers into the water. You may even hear them “sing” or see them spray up to 12 feet above the water.

Although the whales may seem friendly, it’s best to avoid feeding them, swimming with them, or touching them, as this can potentially cause unwanted changes in their behaviour. Instead, the best way to enjoy these beautiful creatures is to simply admire them from afar.

Be Prepared

Have your camera ready, as you never know when one of these gentle giants will breach the water! If you’re hoping to capture some memorable shots, you’ll want to bring a camera with a good lens. Also, binoculars will ensure you don’t miss any of the action, even if it’s a bit distant.

Some tours offer snacks and refreshments, so be sure to enquire about all these details when you book your tour. If not, come prepared with your own.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to carry some medicine with you… just in case. After all, you don’t want to feel unwell during this epic adventure!

Since you’ll be on a boat and potentially in the sun for several hours, it’s essential to carry sun protection, including 30+ SPF broadspectrum sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Finally, the boat deck can get slippery, so it’s best to avoid wearing flip-flops and opt for closed-toe, slipproof shoes.

Most importantly, enjoy every moment of this unique glimpse at one of nature’s most majestic creatures.

K.S. WATERSPORTS (TOURS, RENTALS & CHARTERS)

Dockyard Watersports Centre

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys

Tel: 441-238-4155

Waterlot Inn Dock

Middle Rd., Southampton

Tel: 441-236-4155

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club Marina

76 Pitts Bay Rd., Pembroke

Tel: 441-232-4155

On the waterfront at the White Horse Pub & Restaurant

8 King’s Square, St. George’s Tel: 441-297-4155 www.kswatersports.com

Get ready to have the time of your life with K.S. WaterSports, Bermuda’s No. 1 watersports company for fun and adventure and awarded the Tripadvisor “Travellers’ Choice” award eight years in a row. They offer Jet Ski tours, parasailing, boat rentals, private boat charters, kayak and bike ecotours, snorkelling excursions, banana boat tubing, and more out of four locations across Bermuda.

Jet Ski Tours and Safaris:

Experience a thrill of a lifetime on their amazing Jet Ski Adventures, rated one of the best tours and fun activities to do in Bermuda. Their friendly, fun, and knowledgeable guides will show you shipwrecks, historic landmarks, beaches, and more. Some of their Jet Ski tours explore hidden coves to spot sea turtles, snorkel vibrant coral reefs and underwater marine life, or take you to popular cliff jumping spots around Bermuda’s coastline. With the best Jet Ski rates in Bermuda, several exciting Jet Ski adventures to choose from daily, plus two-hour and three-hour private Jet Ski tours available, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Instructions are provided to all participants to ensure a safe and memorable experience. All ages welcome. Must be 16 years or older (by law) to drive a Jet Ski.

Parasailing:

Experience the high-flying thrill, panoramic views, and pure excitement of parasailing. Soar over Bermuda’s crystal-clear waters aboard the Thrill Seeker. This powerful winch boat allows you to take off and land without getting wet, unless, of course, you request a dip. The professional crew assures you of a safe and memorable experience. Suitable for ages 5 years or older.

Banana Boat Tubing: Looking for the ultimate thrill ride? Hop aboard the inflatable banana tube and be pulled by a high-speed boat around the Great Sound. You’ll be surrounded by spectacular views and turquoise waters, but you’ll probably be more concentrated on holding on tight whilst your banana boat bounces on the waves and twists and turns on this adrenaline-packed ride! Fun for all ages and great for groups and families looking for adventure.

Snorkelling Excursions: Join one of their popular two-stop snorkelling boat excursions, offshore snorkelling adventures, or two-hour Jet Ski and snorkel safaris. All great for beginners and experienced snorkellers who want to explore Bermuda’s amazing underwater marine life and coral reefs. Private snorkelling tour and charter options are also available. Quality snorkel gear is provided, and group sizes onboard are mostly smaller compared to other tour providers, giving you a more personalised snorkelling experience.

Kayaking and Biking Ecotours: Join one of their popular kayaking tours or bike tours where adventure and discovery of Bermuda’s history and uniqueness are at the forefront. Whether paddling around the coves and bays on a double kayak or pedalling the railway trails and paths to see key landmarks and hidden gems, these tours give you and your family a fantastic way to experience and learn about the many wonders of Bermuda. Suited for all ages and skill types.

Pontoon and Boat Rentals:

Plan your very own adventure by renting a brand-new 13-foot or 16-foot Boston Whaler boat or a larger 23-foot premium pontoon boat. Whether half- or full day, beginner or experienced driver, their instructors will have you up and ready to captain your own boat in no time so you can head out on the water and explore Bermuda at your own pace and leisure. A detailed map with routes and points of interest to see is provided. Enjoy quality boats at the best rates, from multiple locations.

Private Boat Charters:

Are you looking for that amazing Bermuda on-thewater experience? Then privately charter one of their premium charter boats ranging from 23 feet to 65 feet long, which are perfectly priced for groups, families, and friends who want to relax, cruise, and explore Bermuda’s waters, islands, and beaches in style and comfort. Swim, snorkel, cliff-jump, tour the coastline, picnic, spot sea turtles, enjoy a sunset, and more. Your dedicated captain will customise your charter experience to suit all your needs.

Kayaks and Paddleboard

Rentals:

For something a little slower paced and still very fun and exciting, try renting one of their brand-new kayaks or paddleboards, which are perfect for all ages and skill levels.

Longtail Water Park

Heritage Wharf

Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Tel: 747-2204 / 234-2193 www.kirksadventures.com

Spend a day aboard the MV Longtail floating water park on Heritage Wharf. With three waterslides, a brand-new floating obstacle course, and, of course, a three-storey diving