DANA POINT, CA — South Orange County waters were reportedly teeming with humpback whales this week, and a fraction of the action was captured in photos.
The gentle giants were spotted Wednesday by travelers aboard a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel.
The morning tour through Orange County waters treated guests to a sighting of two humpback whales traveling together just north of San Onofre.
"We watched in admiration as these magnificent giants surfaced and displayed their beautiful flukes before each dive," Photographer Laura Lopez wrote.
During the noon ocean tour, travelers aboard the vessel spotted a total of four humpback whales traveling together eight miles off San Onofre State Beach.
"They were enormous adults, accompanied by a slightly smaller whale," Lopez said. "Moving in a remarkably tight formation, these four giants repeatedly surfaced and exhaled almost in unison."
During the final tour, a final humpback whale got up close and personnel with the Dana Wharf boat, mesmerizing onlookers with its power and size.
Less than 20 feet off our bow, the humpback surfaced and unleashed an explosive blow that caught everyone by surprise," Lopez said. "The sudden, powerful exhalation was an unforgettable reminder of just how enormous these animals are when they appear right beside you."
According to Lopez, the humpback continued to investigate the boat, circling around the vessel and swimming away only to return moments later.
"Every trip brought something different, and every turn seemed to reveal another amazing wildlife encounter," Lopez said.
To learn more about booking tours with Dana Wharf Whale Watching, visit the agency's website.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Laguna Niguel Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.