Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island announces the arrival of its prime marine wildlife season, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to witness the diverse and awe-inspiring marine life that inhabits the pristine lagoon waters surrounding the private island.
Majestic Humpback Whales Take Center Stage
Anticipation builds for the arrival of majestic humpback whales in the waters surrounding Platte Island. Drawing from the island’s history of marine life sightings, including a spectacular event in November of the previous year when humpback whales were observed breaching just outside the island’s lagoon, the resort is eager to offer its guests the chance to experience these breathtaking natural wonders.
Athina Antoine, Environment Coordinator at Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, shared her excitement: “The sight of these magnificent creatures breaching so close to our shores was truly unforgettable. We’re thrilled to offer our guests the chance to experience this natural wonder in the coming months.”
Fascinating Facts About Humpback Whales
Humpback whales, known scientifically as Megaptera novaeangliae, are one of the most captivating species in the ocean. These gentle giants, which can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh up to 40 tons, are renowned for their acrobatic displays and haunting songs.
“What makes humpback whales truly special is their complex social behavior and their incredible migrations,” Antoine explained. “These whales are known are known for their extensive migrations, traveling thousands of miles between their feeding grounds and breeding areas.”
Guests at the resort may be lucky enough to witness some of the whales’ most famous behaviors:
- Breaching:Humpbacks are known for launching themselves out of the water in spectacular displays of power and grace.
- Tail Slapping:They often slap their massive tail flukes on the water’s surface, creating loud sounds that can be heard for great distances.
- Pectoral Fin Slapping:Their unusually long pectoral fins, which can reach up to 15 feet in length, are sometimes slapped against the water in what is believed to be a form of communication.
- Bubble Net Feeding:In their feeding grounds, humpbacks work together to create circular 'nets’ of bubbles to corral fish, a sophisticated hunting technique that showcases their intelligence and teamwork. Instead of teeth, humpback whales have baleen plates that allow them to filter thousands of pounds of food per day, including small fish and krill.
Perhaps most famously, male humpbacks are known for their complex and ever-evolving songs. “The songs of humpback whales are a true marvel of nature,” Antoine added. “Male humpback whales are famous for their complex and hauntingly beautiful songs, which can last anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes and be repeated for hours. These songs are typically heard during the breeding season in winter. Interestingly, all males in the same area of the ocean share the same song, even across distances of up to 3,000 miles. These songs evolve gradually over the years.”
