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Humpback whales in Guadeloupe : An exceptional season 2026 of encounters, songs, and rare moments

  • Apr 2
  • 3 min read

Humpback Whale  Guadeloupe
Humpback whale calf observed in Guadeloupe in February 2026 from our Soleil Excursions boat

This season will undoubtedly remain etched in our memories.

Off the Côte Sous-le-Vent, humpback whales in Guadeloupe have offered us encounters of rare intensity. Between close observations, fascinating behaviors, and suspended moments listening to their songs, every sea trip felt unique.


At Soleil Excursions, we had the privilege of experiencing a rich, generous, and deeply moving season


Humpback whale in Guadeloupe
Humpback whale and her calf observed during the 2026 season in Guadeloupe (Côte Sous-le-Vent)

Humpback whales in Guadeloupe : Remarkable presence this season 2026


From the very first outings, sightings were consistent.

Humpback whales, which come to the warm waters of Guadeloupe to breed and give birth, were particularly present this year. Some areas became regular meeting points, sometimes even on a daily basis.

But beyond the numbers, it was above all the quality of the encounters that made this season so special.


Humpback whale guadeloupe
When the humpback whale slaps its tail, the spectacle is breathtaking

Mothers and calves : moments of pure gentleness


Among the most memorable moments were encounters with mothers and their calves.

Still young, curious, and sometimes playful, these calves are discovering their environment and occasionally approach boats—always within strict respect of distance regulations.

These are suspended moments.


We witness behaviors filled with incredible gentleness:

  • slow movements,

  • synchronized surfacing,

  • brief glances at the surface,

  • sometimes even shy, curious approaches.


In these moments, time seems to slow down. The emotion on board is undeniable.


Humpback whale and baby

 


Listening to whale songs : A unique immersion


Another highlight of this season was listening to whale songs through a hydrophone.

During certain outings, when conditions allow, we lower the hydrophone into the water… and silence falls on board.

Then, the sounds emerge.


Deep, powerful, sometimes almost melodic, the songs of humpback whales resonate through the vast ocean. These vocalizations, mainly produced by males, are still partly mysterious.

Hearing them at sea is an experience in itself.

A timeless moment that transforms a simple observation into a true sensory immersion.


Listen to the whales’ song – Live from the boat with Naël

Humpback whales in Guadeloupe : Rare images capturing these moments


Thanks to the keen eye of our photographer, this season was also marked by exceptional imagery.

Surface scenes, but also more discreet and unexpected moments, revealing the richness and complexity of humpback whale behavior.


These images are not just beautiful—they tell a story. The story of a vibrant, unpredictable, and deeply authentic season.


Humpback Whales in Guadeloupe

Observing without disturbing : Our commitment


In the face of such moments, one principle remains essential: respect.

At Soleil Excursions, every observation follows the strict guidelines of the AGOA Sanctuary. Distances, speed, behavior on board… everything is designed to never disturb the animals.

Because these moments only exist if they are preserved.


Observation from the boat with engines off of a humpback whale and her calf

An unforgettable season… Always different


No two outings are ever the same.

Some are intense, others more peaceful. Sometimes whales come close, sometimes they remain distant. But each encounter tells a different story.

And that is exactly what makes observing humpback whales in Guadeloupe so unique.

 

Experience Ii with Soleil Excursions


Seeing a humpback whale, hearing its song, catching the gaze of a calf… these are experiences that leave a lasting impression.

At Soleil Excursions, we are committed to sharing these moments with respect, passion, and authenticity.


If you dream of a genuine encounter with whales in Guadeloupe, join us from the Côte Sous-le-Vent.

Perhaps you too will experience one of these suspended moments.



 Photo Credits

Valérie GueitPhotos taken in full compliance with AGOA Sanctuary guidelines


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