Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii, Baja, and occasionally Japan during the winter months to breed in waters that have less risk of predation. Each spring humpback whales leave their breeding grounds and head to Alaska, swimming for 6-8 weeks nonstop, arriving in Alaska in April and May. Recent trends have shown peak humpback whale season to be from May to July, with most humpbacks traveling south to warmer waters in October. However, we do see humpback whales outside of this peak time as their migration can be spread out. Also, some humpbacks do not migrate and can be seen in the area year-round.
Best cruise for humpback whale watching: Any summer cruise, though our full-day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruises offer the best chances since they spend more time on the water.