Early preparation and proper planning is key to the success of any endeavour, whale watching inclusive. To ensure a smooth trip, you will need various equipment including a camera to capture exciting moments, protective clothing and gears. Here are important things to bring when whale watching.
1. Protective Clothing
It is usually very cold and windy particular in the spring and fall with temperatures of over 11°C greater than on land. So, make sure you include sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets, scarves, blankets, and raincoats in your bag. Put on long-sleeved shirts and comfortable shorts. Don’t forget your gloves to protect your hands. Include a pair of cotton or preferably wool gloves in your bag.
Tip: Wear layers of clothes for better protection from the cold.
2. Sunscreen to Protect your Skin
Whale watching, even on cloudy days, exposes you to harmful UV rays. You should use sunscreen for protection. Always put it on for as long as you are outside.
Tip: Sunscreens labelled SPF 30 or higher provides better protection from sunburn. If you do get wet, make sure you reapply your sunscreen.
3. Sunglasses to Protect your Eyes
Wearing sunglasses is a must when whale watching. It protects your eyes from sun glare and helps you see better.
Tip: Inadequate protection from UV can damage your retina and cause cataracts. Use sunglasses that offer full UV protection.
4. Bring a Hat
Hats provide added protection for your face and eyes.
Tip: Use a hat with a very wide brim for better coverage and chinstrap to hold it in place in case of heavy winds.
5. Bring a Raincoat
It is normal to get wet particularly when whale watching on a boat. Don’t fail to carry along a waterproof jacket. It will help you keep dry and warm.
Tip: Heavy hooded jackets or winter coats work better. When shopping for a jacket, choose from the ones labelled “waterproof” (they provide better protection) not “water-resistant”.
6. Bring Rubber Shoes
Rubber boots are the best shoes for whale watching. The shores are often wet and sea water splashes into the boat. Leather shoes can get bad from getting too wet. Flat shoes with rubber sole last better and can help maintain your balance on a wet slippery boat.
Tip: Have an extra pair of socks for when you get wet. Use weather-resistance socks.
7. Pack Snacks
You can spend an entire daytime watching whales. Although some boats have food vendors, it is a great idea to bring your food, even if it’s just snacks. Snacks with high fibre, protein, and fats are better as they help you stay full all day.
Tip: Bring along some hard-boiled eggs, unsalted almonds, and yogurt.
8. Binoculars and Cameras
Whale watching will not be complete without the cameras. The cameras for capturing exciting moments and binoculars will ensure you don’t miss anything.
Tip: Carry extra batteries and large memory storage.
9. Take Water and Medicine
Carry bottled water to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to carry some medicines. Some people get nauseated from the boat ride, especially if it is their first.
Tip: Take the medication some hours before getting onboard.