Behind the scenes: Whale watching off the coast of Virginia Beach

Posted: Jan 9, 2020 / 04:41 PM MST

Updated: Jan 10, 2020 / 10:36 PM MST

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — Winter whale watching off the coast of Virginia Beach is off to a strong start.

On Dec. 30, Rudee Tours posted on Facebook letting the public know they saw a “very active” juvenile humpback whale “entertain” them that afternoon by breaching and showing its flippers above the surface.

10 On Your Side tagged along with Rudee Tours Friday to get a glimpse of the whales.

“They are known for being surface active and acrobatic. So, they are known for putting on a show, ” said Alexis Rabon, who is a naturalist with Rudee Tours.

Rabon has worked for Rudee Tours for 11 years and loves the job.

“It’s amazing. You can’t get a better office than this,” she said.

Rabon says that humpback whales are the most common large whales they see in this area and can usually be spotted on the trips.

Whales are also spotted in areas where a lot of birds a feeding because they eat the same food, according to Rabon. She says they can consume a ton and a half a day, equaling a million calories.

Rabon loves giving the tours because of the interactions with visitors.

“Something seeing the animals brings folks to tears and we get a chance to experience that with them and that’s something that’s so fulfilling. You can’t get the chance to do that anywhere else,” she said.

Katie McCann and Steven Ogden, who were on the tour, enjoyed being able to catch a glimpse of the whales.

“I don’t think I’ve seen a whale that close up before,” McCann said.

The two also appreciated the other wildlife spotted and the “warmer” weather.

“We’re on vacation from New York to see the warmer weather down south,” they laughed.

But unfortunately, the whales won’t be sticking around for warmer weather in Hampton Roads. Due to their migration patterns, they’re typically spotted between late November and March.

Rabon says they offer tours Wednesday through Sunday when the weather permits.

They hope people can come out to learn more about humpback whales.

“By taking folks out to experience their natural habitat, we’re helping to protect the animals in their home, and I think that is the biggest pay off of all,” she said.

The business guarantees whales will be sighted off Virginia Beach from December to Feb. 15. If they aren’t seen during a tour, those riders can go again for free.

Cruises depart Thursday through Sunday this week, according to Rudee Tours.

Tickets can be reserved online at www.RudeeTours.com.