Few marine species inspire as much awe as humpback whales. These enormous mammals, weighing up to 40 tons, are not only powerful and majestic but also surprisingly graceful. I have had the privilege of encountering them in three distinct locations: South Africa, Tonga, and Sint Maarten. Each experience deepens my admiration for them.

My first close encounter was in South Africa, where I initially traveled to witness the famous sardine run along the KwaZulu-Natal coast. What I did not expect was to find myself face to face with a species 800 times my size. While I was with African Watersports and later with local experts like Walter Bernardis at Mbotyi River Lodge, Clare and Ryan Daly in Umkomaas, and Expert Tours in Port Elizabeth, I learned how difficult it is to swim with humpbacks in this region. These whales are typically focused on migration and tend to avoid boats and swimmers. Still, after many attempts and under responsible guidance, I experienced two truly unforgettable moments in the water. These were brief encounters, but their impact was lasting. Seeing a whale swimming just a few meters away is an experience that stays with you forever.

In 2015, I visited the Kingdom of Tonga and spent several weeks swimming with humpback whales. I joined different tour operators and quickly realized that how an operator runs its trips is far more important than what they advertise. I eventually joined Scott Portelli, whose commitment to whale conservation was evident in every aspect of his operation. By limiting group sizes and prioritizing animal welfare over profit, Scott offered a more intimate and respectful approach to whale encounters. These values align closely with mine, and the result was one of the most meaningful wildlife experiences I have had.

In my current home, Sint Maarten, I continue to encounter humpback whales every year from February through May. These whales migrate to the Caribbean to breed and give birth, and their presence in the waters surrounding Saint Martin, Anguilla, and Saint Barthélemy creates a seasonal highlight. At SXM Divers, we often see them breaching and hear their powerful songs echoing through the water. My husband, Dan Norwood, has an exceptional talent for spotting them, and together we love sharing these sightings with our guests. Seeing these animals in their natural environment is a reminder of the wonders of the ocean and why we work so hard to protect it. No matter where I have seen them, the message is clear: humpback whales are magnificent and deserve our respect and protection. Their long migrations, complex behaviors, and vulnerability to human disturbance make them a symbol of both the beauty and fragility of our oceans.