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Whale Weekend
Feb 16
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
“This dance is a reminder of an utterly dismal afternoon out on the Atlantic, in a small boat, in the pouring rain near the Azorean island of São Jorge. I don’t recall ever being as completely soaked through as on that day. We did get to see some Risso’s dolphins (Pelorus Jack’s European relations), which we were told are very rarely encountered in the area, so that made up for all the hardships, to a degree. Use hornpipe music”
~ Devisor Notes: Anselm Lingnau
This dolphinesque yet wet whale-less whale of tale provided the devisor with dance inspiration for this nautical and easy to learn reel, ending with ship-shape rights and lefts. Have you been lucky enough to spot a whale from sea or shore? There is strong anecdotal and scientific evidence suggesting that whales are just as curious about whale watchers as we are about them!
Many species, especially humpback whales and gray whales, have been observed approaching boats, spy-hopping (poking their heads above the water), and even following vessels for extended periods.
And in places like Baja California, gray whales are famous for actively approaching boats, sometimes even allowing gentle touches from humans. Some whales have been seen breaching or tail-slapping near boats, presumably for their own amusement. Splish splash! 💙 🐋 🐋 🐋 🌊 🌊
The São Jorge Whale-Watchers
Although whale-watching tours are ubiquitous around the world's tourist coastlines, some of the best places in the world for whale watching include Alaska, Iceland, Canada’s Bay of Fundy, and Australia’s Hervey Bay. In these locations, visitors can witness a variety of species such as humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and even belugas, depending on the season. The nutrient-rich waters in these areas provide ideal feeding grounds, making them hotspots for migration and breeding. Many guided tours, whether by boat or from scenic coastal vantage points, ensure enthusiasts have the best opportunities to observe these magnificent marine mammals up close.
Scotland is one of Europe’s hidden gems for whale watching, thanks to its rugged coastline and rich marine biodiversity. The west coast, particularly around the Hebrides, is a prime location, with species such as minke whales, orcas, and even occasional humpbacks making an appearance. The Isle of Mull, often called the "Whale Watching Capital of Scotland," is renowned for its excellent sightings, as is the Moray Firth, where orcas can sometimes be seen hunting. Boat tours from locations like Oban, Ullapool, and the Shetland Islands provide incredible opportunities to spot these creatures in the wild while taking in Scotland’s dramatic seascapes. Late spring to early autumn is the best time to go, as whale activity peaks during the warmer months when fish and plankton populations thrive.
For more on Scottish whale-spotting, spot the smiley whale!
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