HUMBACKS

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BASIC INFORMATION
The humpback whale, also known as the oceanic longfinned whale, is a fascinating species of a whale from the fin whale family. Adults typically reach 14-17 metres in length and weigh between 30 and 45 tonnes. They are some of the largest riffles in the world.
Humpbacks have long, narrow pectoral fins. Their top of the body is usually black and the underside is white. This variable colouration makes them easy to recognise. Another characteristic is its beautiful tail fin, full of black and white patterns, unique in each individual.
Humpbacks are famous for performing beautiful songs underwater. The melodies are varied and complex. These songs are still the subject of scientific study, but probably involve communication between them. Humpbacks are not only beautiful, but also intelligent.

‘HUNTING’ HUMPBACK WHALES
In the past, whalers hunted humpback whales for their meat, fat and baleen. Today, humpback whales are protected and their population is beginning to recover.
During our “Auroras and Whales” trips, we ‘hunt’ humpback whales. But these are bloodless hunts, as the hunting tool is usually a camera or a camcorder. Encountering these whales is incredibly exciting and everyone wants to capture these moments to remember them or share with their friends.
Humpbacks are very sociable. They often swim right up to the yacht and play with us. They stick their heads out at the side of the yacht, wave their fins, turn around and sometimes jump out. They are clearly interested in us and want to communicate.
We experience most encounters with herds of humpback whales during our winter expeditions around Kvænangen, but sometimes we manage to spot them in summer on Svalbard.