A group of kayakers had a dangerously close encounter with a humpback whale last week near Bowen Island.
Images shared on social media by Bowen Island Sea Kayaking show the group of kayakers on the water when a massive humpback breaches within oar-length of their boats.
Steve Mather, owner of the kayaking company, says this particular humpback was feeding a bit too close to the shoreline where the kayakers were.
He says this season has specifically seen an increase in humpback whale and orca sightings.
“They are becoming so regular,” he said. “We always used to tell guests, don’t expect to see anything like that, but if you’re really lucky this season, the humpbacks have been here on a near daily basis over the last few weeks.”
He says it’s not common for kayakers to have such a close encounter.
“In the deeper water, where the shoreline drops off more steeply, it is possible for whales to get that close, but we have never seen a whale as close as our guests got to it the other day,” he said.
He says boaters need to know the rules surrounding whales, including staying at least 200 metres away from them.
“The marine environment is full of risks,” he said. “With this increased level of marine life, it is really important that paddlers understand how to be safe out there,” Mather said.
He says that does not just include whales but also sea lions and other big creatures that can weigh up to 500 pounds.
Mather says it’s important to stay close to the shoreline for the best protection.