Whale watching tips

Originally published Tuesday, March 26, 2002

- Boat: Charter boat operators know the best times and places to visit. For information about Westport whale-watching charters, call 800-345-6223, 360-268-9422 or 800-562-0105. Private boats are not recommended. If you encounter a whale, keep at least 100 yards behind and to the side of the whale. The act of harassing a marine mammal is subject to fines.

- Land: From high cliffs and bluffs along the outer coast, look just outside the breakers. Some good spots on the Washington coast include:

- Highway 101 near Kalaloch.

- Highway 109 near Moclips.

- North Head at the south end of the Long Beach Peninsula.

- Cape Flattery: Involves some possibly difficult hiking.

- Sky: Chartering a plane offers a unique perspective.

- Sightings: Spouts or blows are 10 to 15 feet high, often heart-shaped. Gray whales usually blow three times in short succession and then dive for five to 20 minutes before reappearing. Watch for mating behavior: thrashing and slow surface rolls.

- Bring: Don't forget binoculars, spotting scope, warm clothes, rain gear and comfortable shoes. Coastal winds can be cold.

- Time: Early morning hours are best, before the wind comes up and the sun is in the east.

The Olympian Copyright 2002

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