Blue Whales expedition by Bo Bridges

The three of us (Gene Smith, Mike Vaughan, and myself) paddled out in the great Pacific to find whales. I had heard they were out there but didn't expect to see and experience all of this. The weather was erie with limited visibility and we took a GPS to help find our way around and to get back to shore. The first Blue Whale I saw breached and came directly towards me at 12 o'clock. I was paddling and couldn't even get my camera out in time to start shooting. I tried to relax but my heart rate went through the roof. It dove down right in front of me and went directly below me. I could have jumped on it's back. It appeared to be about 10 feet wide and 60-70 feet long. It was just a massive creature! Not really knowing how they behave when encountered by paddlers, I thought I might get tossed and just waited for impact. The water is super clear out there and I had on polarized glasses so I could see everything underneath me. We paddled a total of 12 miles in about 4 hours. Came up on at least 6 whales and a pod of dolphins. By the time we decided to call it a day the sun came out and we headed back. Incredible day.

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• www.bobridges.com
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[Gorlung]

what are benefits of such boards in comparison with sea kayaks?

[BoBridgesPhoto]

@Gorlung you can see more standing up

[erikipf]

I did the same thing with the humpbacks in Mexico (on a sit-on-top kayak)!! They didn't get quite as close, but up to about 50 ft. I was pretty terrified/exhilarated! it really was incredible!

Gorlung - kayaks are more stable, less concern with falling, and can carry more stuff. by myself i took snorkeling stuff, dry bag with video & still camera, and LUNCH! By myself. 4 miles out. Boards will give you a MUCH better vantage point to see the whales and water much better!

[chpnlzt]

NICE TRIP, DUDE - YOU HAVE AN EXTRA BOARD TO TAKE ME OUT TO SEE EM, IF SO, MESSAGE ME YOUR RATES FOR A TRIP OF A LIFETIME.....

CLICK ON MY NICNAME AND THEN CLICK "SEND MESSAGE" BY MY AVATAR.

[dolphinDog]

Nice documentary. Gods Blessings

[MrDaniel0816]

incredible!