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Blue Whale Photo Expedition
Detailed Description
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Join renowned photographer Amos Nachoum for an unforgettable free diving experience. Witness and photograph the blue whale - the largest animal known to exist on our planet, bigger even than any dinosaur.
“Rising out of the water were a pair of whale flukes that stretched nearly six metres across … as we crept in closer, the blue whale exhaled, generating a sound like an eighteen-wheeler locking up its brakes at 80 kilometres an hour.”
Based on the latest reports from National Geographic and the BBC we have learnt that clusters of blue whales, as good or even better than those off Mexico, will be found in the clear waters between San Diego and Coronado Island. So, on this expedition we have chosen to dive with the blue whales in an area 25 to 65 kilometres offshore between San Diego and Coronado Island.

To maximize the exclusivity of this extraordinary opportunity and to ensure that the whales’ tranquillity is undisturbed, each expedition is limited to only four guests. In addition to seeking out the blues by sea we will use a chartered spotter plane to perform an aerial search, as well as to provide a unique photographic opportunity for our guests. The whale will be approached by kayak as even the sound of the fins while snorkelling could scare the blue. There will be three expert kayakers on board with three two-person kayaks. We often find the blue whale will dive just under our kayaks, quite an amazing experience.

Who else would lead such an expedition with only four guests other than a photographer who is absolutely dedicated to wildlife photography? Be one of the first to join renowned photographer Amos Nachoum on this unique journey.
During this time of year, many different marine animals arrive in Southern California to feed and breed. Each day as we make our way toward our destination we may have several opportunities to encounter other marine life along the way including sun fish (mola mola), blue sharks, schools of tuna and more.
There are several reasons why we will not be scuba diving:
Noisy bubbles from scuba will frighten most whales

Scuba tanks are heavy and often long runs are required for the boat to close in on the steadily advancing cetaceans. When a blue whale proves cooperative it is important for the observers to enter the water quickly yet with stealth and agility.

By snorkelling and free diving the expedition provides a rare opportunity for non-divers to join in … with a mask and a snorkel you will be able to see it all unfold below you.
The Vessel
Our 20-meter vessel has been especially designed for diving around California and can accommodate up to 24 divers on day trips. Only four guests will be onboard for this expedition along with three crew members and three kayakers who will paddle you toward the whales.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive San Diego.
Day 2 - 8
For the next 7 days a spotter plane will leave early in the morning and spend 3-4 hours searching for blue whales south of Coronado Island in Mexico. We will leave each morning by boat and head toward the area where the whales have been spotted or pursue the report from our scouting pilot. We snorkel with the blues only when they are a few feet away, giving you the most splendid opportunity to be in close proximity to one of the shyest marine mammals. If we encounter other marine life along the way such as pods of dolphins, we will free dive adding to the excitement and sense of wonder. Aerial photography is also available.
Day 9
Depart San Diego for home.
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