Nature has a way of leaving us speechless, reminding us just how extraordinary it can be. One such jaw-dropping moment took place in the waters of Monterey Bay, California—a hotspot for whale enthusiasts.
Photographer Douglas Craft had his camera ready when a colossal humpback whale leaped out of the water right next to a tiny fishing boat. The result? A series of breathtaking photos that perfectly capture the sheer size of these ocean giants.
Reflecting on the incredible scene, Douglas shared with a laugh, “The whale is huge! If I’d been the fisherman, I’d probably need some new underwear.”
What makes these photos even more striking is the angle. Douglas explained, “I went below deck to shoot from a porthole near the waterline. That’s what gives this amazing perspective of looking up at the whale.” The small fishing boat beside the towering humpback only added to the drama, making the whale appear even more massive.
Kate Cummings, a fellow whale watcher and videographer, was also on board. She captured the spectacular breach on video and shared her thoughts on the once-in-a-lifetime moment. “It was so much fun filming this. The whale had been breaching multiple times, much farther away at first. But when whales breach repeatedly, they often move in a specific direction underwater, building momentum for the next leap.”
She added, “I had a hunch it was heading toward the fisherman, but I didn’t expect the whale and boat to line up so perfectly. That part was pure luck!”
This extraordinary encounter is a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of nature’s wonders. If this incredible moment made you smile (or gave you goosebumps), share it with a friend who loves the ocean as much as you do! 🌊🐋
