Observe, understand, protect: photo-identification of cetaceans in Guadeloupe.

Caudal of a humpback whale photographed in 1980 and 2016 in Canada, then in 2025 in Guadeloupe by our photographer Valérie Gueit , recorded by the Happywhale platform and the Ommag Guadeloupe association.

At Soleil Excursions, every sea excursion is much more than a simple encounter with dolphins, sperm whales or whales: it's also an opportunity to contribute to a better understanding of these extraordinary animals.

Thanks to the photo-identification of cetaceans in Guadeloupe, we are actively involved in research projects to better understand the behavior, migrations and populations of cetaceans in Guadeloupe... and beyond!

Spermwhale in Guadeloupe

Dive into the world of sperm whales in Guadeloupe with Soleil Excursions

What is cetacean photo-identification in Guadeloupe?

Photo-identification of cetaceans in Guadeloupe is a non-intrusive scientific method which involves photographing specific parts of the cetacean's body, such as the tail fin of humpback whales, the dorsal fin of dolphins, or unique natural scars and markings, in order to recognize them individually.

Each individual has a unique “natural identity card”.

All year round, we meet the cetaceans of Guadeloupe.

In the seasoned eye of our photographer Valérie Gueit

Why is photo-identification of cetaceans in Guadeloupe important?

• Track migrations: by comparing photos taken in Guadeloupe with those from other parts of the world (such as Iceland, or Canada), researchers can retrace migratory routes.

  
  

• Better understanding of populations: Photo-Identification provides information on the number of individuals, their fidelity to an area, their life expectancy or their breeding habits.

  
  

• Protect effectively: The data collected helps guide protection measures (quiet zones, approach seasons, etc.).

That moment when the sperm whale joins the abyss and gives us a glimpse of its majestic tail

Our contribution from Guadeloupe

During our outings, escorted by our passionate captains trained in the rules of the AGOA Sanctuary, our photographer Valérie Gueit captures images that can be used for identification.

These photos are then shared with networks of researchers and partner associations, such as OMMAG in Guadeloupe. This sometimes makes it possible to identify cetaceans already observed elsewhere in the world, or on the contrary, to record an unknown individual.

Superb sperm whale tails seen in Guadeloupe

A timeless encounter: from Guadeloupe ... to Canada, 40 years later

This season, during one of our observation outings, our photographer Valérie immortalized a magnificent humpback whale gliding peacefully through Guadeloupe's waters.

Thanks to the database of the OMMAG association, the marine mammal observatory of the Guadeloupe archipelago, and the Happywhale platform, the photos were compared with others taken around the world... and the incredible happened: the individual was identified as being the same as a specimen observed and photographed in Canada 45 years ago!

This kind of heartbreaking correspondence testifies not only to the longevity of these majestic animals, but also to the immensity of their migratory routes and the need to protect them along their entire journey.

Every click of a camera can become an essential link in a global scientific story, and we're proud to be able to contribute to it from Guadeloupe.

A magical moment that reminds us of the intelligence of the animal world

How can you help us better understand the cetaceans of Guadeloupe?

Every passenger can become an eco-observer:

• By sharing photos taken on board with our team.

  
  

• By respecting the rules of approach, so as not to disturb the animals' natural behaviors.

  
  

• Learn about cetaceans and share your knowledge with others.

Meli Melo de caudales de cachalots pour la photo-identification

Observe cetaceans with respect, to better protect them.

The magic of a dolphin's leap or a whale's blow is only the surface of a fascinating world.

Thanks to the photo-identification of cetaceans in Guadeloupe, we're discovering the individual stories behind each tail.

At Soleil Excursions, we're proud to contribute to this scientific and human adventure, which connects the oceans and those who love them.

A real privilege to be able to observe humpback whales in Guadeloupe from December to May every year.

Book your whale watching trip in Guadeloupe with us , here

Photo credits by Valérie Gueit : Zoom photos taken in compliance with Agoa Sanctuary protocols and approach distances.

- Source : Soleil Excursions