With a size of 33 ft. long on average, Dwarf Minke Whales are the smallest species of rorquals. During austral winter, all along the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, these mammals which are very curious about humans, massively congregate, giving an extraordinary opportunity to approach them easily.
To protect the whales, only a tiny number of cruise boats have the authorization to offer diving experience with them. All whale dive trips are strictly supervised and regulated. It is totally forbidden to swim towards the whales (while snorkeling or scuba diving), you need to hold a line at the surface or underwater. It is also prohibited to take pictures with flash or to use a torch light.
Our correspondent in Australia, the director Josh Jensen and his partner, the photographer Liz Harlin, came back from such a trip with this fabulous video, and also tips and tricks on how to shoot pictures and videos of the whales. You can find more information on their
Undersea Productions website.
HOW TO DIVE THERE
You can get the list of authorized dive operators on the
official website of the Australian Government. Liz and Josh chose the famous Mike Ball Expeditions. All the details about their cruises with dwarf Minke whales are available on
Mike Ball website.
© Josh Jensen / Undersea Productions