They appeared in front of us as we journeyed slowly down the south coast of Maui.  We were cruising about 12 knots when their blows about 500 yards away caused our captain to slow us to  5 knots.  The trio, a mom, calf, and big escort, all turned and headed over toward our vessel.  Now shut down, all on board excitedly removed lens caps, found places at the railing to get comfortable ,and anxiously wait edto see what the animals decided to do.  I had to smile when I heard one family talking in excited whispers, their reverence evident.

The explosive sounds of the male exhale right next to our vessel caused all to shout with excitement and running footsteps could be heard coming from various places on the deck.  For the next 1.5 hours these animals took turns looking up through the clear blue waters at the surprised faces peering down.  The small calf, very clumsy at first, worked hard to keep up with the adults as they slowly cruised all around us, one time the male deciding to go under our bow.

The calf was brand new with fetal folds apparent.  When these animals first approached ,the calf was still very uncoordinated.  What amazed us all was during the time we all had together, the calf became stronger by the minute.  When we left them and pulled away, seconds later the calf gave one breach, as if to say "look at me!".  

One passenger tearfully told me that coming to Hawaii was a dream for her husband and her.  They flew all the way from Germany.  Seeing whales was something not planned but a treat she will never forget.  Today's animals touched many hearts.  We are going out again on Sunday.  Won't you come with us?

Katie Grove-Velasquez is a marine naturalist, writer, lecturer, and amateur photographer working in Hawaii.  She can be reached at:  reefannie@hotmail.com