Why Sitka is the Best Place to See Whales in Alaska
Situated on a small island in the Pacific Ocean, the town of Sitka has a rich cultural past and an abundance of natural splendor. Learn about the distinctive terrain, community’s history, and adventure possibilities by exploring its history and culture.
Sitka, Alaska, is ideal for the world’s biggest animals, which may flourish here. Dolphins, porpoises, and whales are all examples of cetaceans.
On the other hand, the gigantic whale is the center of attraction. Nowadays, whale watching is one of Alaska’s most popular outdoor activities because these social animals are gorgeous, elegant, and magical. As a bonus, it’s a sport that anybody of any age or physical ability may participate in. Following are some of the questions people interested in whale watching ask:
- What Kinds of Whales Are Present in Sitka, Alaska?
There are a variety of whale species that may be found on Alaska’s coastline. Sitka, Alaska’s most often seen species, include orca, fin whale, gray whale, and humpback. There are other parts of Alaska where you can see minke, sperm, and blue whales if you’re fortunate.
- What Time of Year Can You Witness Whales in Sitka, Alaska?
Orcas, for example, maybe seen year-round in the region’s inlets and bays, where they breed and eat. On the other hand, summertime is when you’ll get the clearest sights. Predominantly seen off Alaska in April, gray whales make their appearance as the first arrivals. In May, we begin to see more killer whales, and in June, we begin to see humpbacks.
May to October is usually the prime whale season in Sitka, Alaska, and boat cruises are available.
- Where in Alaska Can You Witness Whales?
Across Alaska’s coastline seas, from the eastern Bering Sea to the Gulf of Alaska in the south, whales will be seen. During the peak summertime, this is particularly true.
Sitka Alaska is a protected and magnificent bay with diverse marine life and is a prime location for whale viewing. Puffins, bald eagles, and bears share the region with Steller sea lions, otters, and harbor seals.
- Where Can You Watch Whales In Alaska?
They may usually be seen from the seashore during the summer months. That being said, the best way to see whales in their natural habitat is from the ocean. You may see whales up close and personal if you take a boat tour. Aside from the major attraction, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Think about the rainforests, glaciers, and a variety of animals that you will get to see.
- Is Alaska Home to Any Endangered Whales?
Unfortunately, the answer to that is yes. As per the US Department of Fisheries Management, there are critically threatened whale species in Sitka, Alaska. Whales like sperm and fin whales are spearheading this list in the North Pacific. Ocean conservation and the need to implement sustainable techniques are becoming more widely known.
- Why Is Alaska the Favorite Place for Whales to Visit?
The main reason why they visit Alaska is migration. Whales return from the warmer seas of Central America, California, Hawaii, and Mexico; most species are returning to their breeding grounds. A whale’s natural response is returning to Alaskan feeding grounds when water temperatures down South increase.
- What Does a Whale Eat?
For every different whale species, there are certain food preferences. Because of their size and hunting abilities, orcas are divided into three subspecies: offshore orcas, transient marine mammal eaters, and resident fish eaters. They are all formidable opponents in the water. Fish is the primary food source for the residents. Pods of transient killer whales hunt small sea animals, such as dolphins and whales. Orcas in the open Ocean prey mostly on small marine animals.
Small crustaceans located on the murky ocean bottom are preferred by gray whales, whereas blue whales eat vast quantities of smaller crustaceans. Even whales such as the minke and humpback eat small fish and krill schools and squid, shrimp, and fish.
The Bottom Line
Orcas, Gray, and minke whales pass through Sitka Bay during the summer migration season in July and December.
Annually, a large number of migrating whales move to the same waters. To appoint a charter for a whale-watching trip to see the majestic giants floating in their natural habitat contact Sitka Whale Watch.
While on a Sitka Alaska whale watching cruise, it’s good to bring along a camera and binoculars for spotting exciting ocean life. This is particularly true if your ship travels through water channels where whales are frequently spotted. Sitka, Alaska has become a favorite with the tourists, as whales can be seen easily here. Call (907)738-7311 to book.
