Humpback whales start to arrive in the islands in mid December, to mate and give birth, before returning to Northern British Columbia and Alaska in the spring.
Humpback whales are here in greatest number from the beginning of January through mid March, with some mother calf pairs still lingering into April. To hear their breath as they surface for air, or see them breach from the water, is an experience of a lifetime, as is listening to their song by hydrophone or, all around you, in the water.
“What a simply wonderful treat last evening was! A beautiful sunset, the quiet grace of the Maile on the water, and some very exciting whales!! Kids adored it again this year and say we MUST do it every year — forever!!!”
– Kay
Hawaii’s spinner dolphins feed off-shore at night, and come into shallow bays to rest during the day. They often come to Maile as we sail out of the harbor during Spring, fall and Summer months. To watch them play off the bow, or play with a whale, is a great delight.