Humpback Whales in Saint-Barthelemy
Majestic spectacle of the ocean giants in the crystal-clear waters of Saint-Barth
Every year, from January to April, the turquoise waters of Saint-Barthelemy become the stage for an extraordinary natural spectacle: the migration of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae). These majestic ocean giants leave the cold waters of the North Atlantic to reach the Caribbean to breed and give birth in warmer, protected waters.
Saint-Barthelemy, with its deep crystal-clear waters located in close proximity to the coasts, offers a privileged observation post for these impressive marine mammals. The passage of humpback whales has become one of the most anticipated natural events of the year, attracting marine biologists, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.
The Humpback Whale: Characteristics
Identification
Size: 12 to 16 meters in length
Weight: 25 to 40 tons
Color: Black or dark gray back, white belly
Unique feature: Extremely long pectoral fins (up to 5 meters), representing about one-third of the body length
Dorsal hump: Small dorsal fin followed by a series of bumps to the tail
Distinctive tail: Each whale has a unique pattern on the underside of its fluke, like a fingerprint
Observable Behaviors
Breaching: The whale launches itself out of the water in a spectacular jump, falling back on its side in a splash of spray
Tail slapping: Violent slapping of the tail on the water surface, producing a sound audible for several kilometers
Pec slapping: Slapping the water with its long pectoral fins
Spy-hopping: The whale rises vertically out of the water to observe its surroundings
Song: Males produce complex vocalizations that can last 20 minutes and be heard more than 30 km away
Why Saint-Barthelemy?
Humpback whales choose Caribbean waters for several essential reasons: ideal water temperature (25-28C) for newborns who have not yet developed their insulating fat layer, calm and protected waters perfect for calves learning to swim, significant depth close to coasts allowing adults to move freely, absence of major predators in the region, and abundance of plankton to feed nursing mothers. Saint-Barth is located on one of the main migratory routes connecting the North Atlantic to the Caribbean breeding grounds.
Where and When to Observe Humpback Whales
Observation Calendar
Arrival of the first whales. Observations still rare but possible.
Optimal period! Numerous daily sightings, frequent spectacular behaviors (breaching, tail slapping), presence of mothers with their calves.
Return migration northward. Observations gradually decrease.
No observations. The whales have returned to the North Atlantic to feed.
Best Observation Spots
From the coast (free)
- • Pointe Milou: Elevated point offering panoramic view of the open sea. Ideal with binoculars.
- • Colombier (trail): Height allowing to spot blows several kilometers away.
- • Toiny: Wild Atlantic coast, deep waters close to shore.
- • Gouverneur: Secluded beach with clear view of the ocean.
At sea (excursions)
- • Whale watching excursions: Organized trips with naturalist guides (duration 2-3h, strict distance compliance)
- • Private sailboats: Observation from a pleasure boat (maintain minimum distance of 100m)
- • Fourchue - Petit Ilet area: Privileged migration corridor north of the island
Observation Tips
- • Prefer mornings (calmer sea, better visibility)
- • Bring binoculars or a camera with powerful zoom
- • Watch the surface to spot "blows" (exhaled water spray)
- • Patience: whales can stay 15-20 minutes underwater between breaths
- • Watch for seabirds that often gather above whales
Fascinating Anecdotes
Whale song, an underwater symphony
Male humpback whales produce one of the most complex songs in the animal kingdom. These vocalizations can last up to 20 minutes and are repeated for hours. Even more surprising: all whales in the same region sing the same song, which gradually evolves throughout the season. Scientists believe these songs serve to attract females and mark territory. In Saint-Barth, hydrophones have recorded these songs at depths of over 1000 meters.
An epic 25,000 km journey per year
The humpback whales observed in Saint-Barthelemy make one of the longest migrations of all mammals. They travel approximately 5000 km from their feeding grounds in the North Atlantic (Greenland, Iceland, Norway) to the Caribbean to breed, then make the return journey. During the 3-4 months spent in tropical waters, they fast completely, living solely on their fat reserves accumulated during the Arctic summer.
The calf, a 1.5-ton baby
At birth, a humpback whale calf already measures 4 to 5 meters and weighs about 1.5 tons. It drinks up to 600 liters of maternal milk per day, an extremely rich milk (45% fat, compared to 4% for cow milk) that allows it to gain 45 kg per day during the first months. The mother-calf relationship is very strong: the female stays constantly close to her young and fiercely protects it from any potential danger.
Why do they jump?
Breaching (spectacular jumping out of the water) is one of the most impressive behaviors of humpback whales. Despite numerous studies, scientists are not certain of its exact function. Several hypotheses: long-distance communication (the noise travels for several kilometers), elimination of parasites attached to the skin, play behavior or strength demonstration, territorial marking against other males. In Saint-Barth, these spectacular jumps are frequently observed between February and March, the peak period of reproductive activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim with whales in Saint-Barth?
No, swimming with whales is strictly prohibited in Saint-Barthelemy and throughout the French West Indies. This regulation aims to protect these marine mammals during their particularly sensitive breeding period. Boats must maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters (300 meters for mothers with calves). Significant fines penalize non-compliance with these rules. This protection is essential not to disturb natural behaviors and ensure the whales return each year.
What is the best time to observe whales?
Mornings between 7am and 11am generally offer the best conditions: calmer sea making it easier to spot blows, ideal light for photography, whales more active after the night. However, observations are possible throughout the day. In late afternoon (4pm-6pm), the sea calms down again and the golden sunset light creates a magical atmosphere for observation.
Are whales dangerous?
Humpback whales are not aggressive towards humans. No case of deliberate attack has ever been recorded. However, they are 40-ton animals whose movements can be unpredictable. An involuntary tail strike or breaching near a boat could cause damage. That is why safety distances are crucial. Mothers with calves may be more cautious and move away from boats, behavior that should be respected.
How many whales pass near Saint-Barth each year?
It is difficult to obtain a precise count, but studies estimate that several hundred humpback whales transit through the waters around Saint-Barthelemy during the migration season. The total population of North Atlantic humpback whales is estimated at about 12,000 individuals, constantly increasing since the ban on commercial hunting in 1966. Some whales identified by photo-identification faithfully return to the region year after year.
Can you observe whales from the beach?
Yes, absolutely! Saint-Barthelemy offers the unique advantage of having deep waters very close to the coasts. Observations from the beach or elevated points are regularly reported, particularly in February-March. The best coastal spots include Colombier (trail), Toiny, Gouverneur and all elevated points on the east and north coast. Binoculars or a camera with zoom significantly increase your chances of observing behaviors well. Some lucky people have even observed breaching from their terrace!
Are there other visible whale species?
Although humpback whales are the most frequently observed, other cetacean species frequent the waters of Saint-Barth: sperm whales (rarer, in very deep waters), beaked whales (occasional), pilot whales (groups of 10-30 individuals), and of course dolphins that are present year-round. Each species has specific behaviors and habitats, making each trip at sea unique.
Protection and Responsible Observation Rules
The continued presence of humpback whales in our waters depends on respect for strict protection rules
Mandatory minimum distances:
- 100 meters minimum between a boat and a whale
- 300 meters for mothers accompanied by a calf
- Swimming or diving with whales prohibited
- Reduced speed (5 knots maximum) within a 300m radius
Prohibited behaviors:
- Intentionally approaching a whale
- Blocking the path or encircling an animal
- Making excessive noise (engines, music)
- Throwing anything into the water
- Using a drone within 100m
Best practices:
- Cut the engine if a whale approaches you
- Observe from the coast whenever possible
- Choose operators certified "Responsible Whale Watching"
- Report inappropriate behavior to authorities
- Share your observations with local scientific programs