Expert: Michael - 5/23/2006

Question
Hi Michael,

My boyfriend and I are taking our first cruise and first trip to Bermuda in a few weeks, and I was wondering what the chances are of us seeing whales there or on the way there.

One of the reasons I chose Bermuda was because I really wanted to see whales.  Now that I've researched, most places seem to say that after May, there are no whales.  I figured I would ask you, since your answers to other people's questions have been so helpful to me so far.

What are my chances?  Any at all?  Either way, it looks like we'll have a great time there!

Thank you so much!

Answer
Hi Jamie,

What a delight Bermuda will be for you.  It is doubtful that you will see any whales on your way to Bermuda, although there is an outside chance if you depart a terminal out of the northeast.  But it seems to be a bit too early.

Chances are slim to none that you will see whales in Bermuda.  Remember Jamie that Bermuda is an inactive volcano rising from the ocean floor 10,000 some feet.  The very top of the rock is what has become over eons habitable. This top area is made up of a small group of islands. Only seven are connected by causeway and bridges where you will find a dream vacation.  

Hundreds of other islets and rocks made up the Bermuda islands. Further around this parimeter are submerged coral rocks known as reefs.  These reefs extend outwards twenty-five miles from your destination.  They have been the demise of ships for centuries.  Matter of fact, the Sea Venture grounded upon these reefs during a violent storm on their way to help the settlers in Jamestown.  The survivors made it to the island.  They actually came upon land in St. George and settled there.  In town you will see a replica of the vessal the Delivererance which the craftsmen built to continue on their mission.  Some, the settlers, remained behind and the island was claimed for Her Majesty, the queen.

A long story to say that whales won't enter the reef area.  Bahahaha.  It's just not deep enough.  But I'm intrigued with how and where the first settlers landed.  Today, 300 years later you will find the tiny town of St. George charm filled.  Seemingly untouched by 300 years of civilization.  A wonderfully delightful area. It is on the World Heritage Map of historical places and rightly so.

Do stop off at the White Horse Tavern for a rum swizzle on the porch.  Or toss back a black rum and wash it down with a "pint of courage" (ale).  Do take a little time to wonder about the back roads of St. George, Silk Alley, Old Maid's Lane, Aunt Peggy's Lane ... hey Jamie, see if you can find Pound Alley?  It's not on the Handy Reference Map and it's across from Sommers Garden where Sir Admiral Sommer's, captain of the Sea Venrture, heart is said to be burried. It all makes for a lovely walk.

You, my inquirer, are about to have the vacation of a lifetime.

Happy planning!
Michael