Three Humpback Whales Approach Meridian off Moss Landing

Off Moss Landing aboard Meridian, our focal encounter centered on three humpback whales that chose to approach our vessel. The trio spent an extended period circling close to the boat, repeatedly swimming beneath the hull and surfacing quietly along our beam.

This deliberate, boat-oriented behavior often happens when humpbacks take an interest in an idling vessel. With our engines out of gear, the whales exhibited remarkable spatial awareness, maneuvering their massive bodies and long pectoral fins effortlessly just beneath the surface as they inspected us from all angles.

Encounters like this are always dictated entirely by the whales. Having three individuals calmly choose our proximity and linger so comfortably around the boat is a steady reminder of the subtle curiosity these animals can display in Monterey Bay.