Whales in Guadeloupe: When the Sea Reveals the Invisible
- Feb 4
- 3 min read
Guadeloupe is a privileged territory for cetacean observation. Throughout the year, our boat trips allow us to encounter various species, some well known and relatively regularly observed, others extremely discreet and rarely seen.
While humpback whales and sperm whales are among the most frequent encounters, bearing in mind that humpback whales migrate through our waters only during the period from December to May, the sea sometimes offers us moments that are far rarer still.
This is the case with beaked whales, including Cuvier’s beaked whale and Gervais’ beaked whale, which are observed only exceptionally in our waters.
Whales regularly observed in Guadeloupe
The humpback whale, an emblematic seasonal visitor
From December to May, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Caribbean to breed and give birth.
Known for their spectacular breaches, long pectoral fins, and powerful songs, humpback whales are often the most striking encounters for observers. Each season is different, but these giants of the sea remain the true ambassadors of whale migration in Guadeloupe.
The sperm whale, present year-round
The sperm whale, on the other hand, is present throughout the year in the deep waters surrounding Guadeloupe.
Females and juveniles live in family groups and are considered resident, while males are more migrator, alternating long deep dives with solitary movements.
An exceptional diver, the sperm whale can descend to depths of more than 1,000 meters in search of food. Observations are regular along the leeward coast of Guadeloupe.
Beaked whales: exceptional observations in Guadeloupe
In contrast to these relatively well-known species, beaked whales are among the rarest and most difficult cetaceans to observe.
These species live offshore, above very deep waters, spend most of their lives diving, and remain at the surface for only brief moments.In Guadeloupe, sightings are very occasional.
Nevertheless, two species have already been observed in our waters:
Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), observed in 2025,
Gervais’ beaked whale (Mesoplodon europaeus), observed in January 2026 & in 2024
These encounters remain rare and precious, and they stand out as remarkable events within a season.
Cuvier’s beaked whale, champion of the deep
Cuvier’s beaked whale is currently recognized as the deepest-diving mammal known. It is capable of descending to depths of more than 2,000 meters and remaining submerged for over two hours.
When it surfaces, its presence is often extremely fleeting: a discreet blow, a back briefly breaking the surface, and then it disappears once again. This is why sightings are short-lived and photographs are often taken in the urgency of the moment.
In Guadeloupe, such encounters are rare, but several observations have occurred in January, confirming that our deep waters are part of its natural environment, even though it rarely reveals itself.
Gervais’ beaked whale, one of the most elusive in the world
Gervais’ beaked whale is considered one of the least observed cetacean species in the world. Smaller than Cuvier’s beaked whale, it is extremely difficult to identify at sea, and its appearances are usually very brief.
Being able to observe it in Guadeloupe highlights the exceptional richness of the marine depths surrounding the archipelago, as well as the completely unpredictable nature of such encounters.
Seeing whales in Guadeloupe: encounters that cannot be forced
Observing beaked whales means accepting that certain encounters cannot be sought—they are meant to be experienced.
Unlike more regularly observed species, these cetaceans remain invisible most of the time, and it is precisely this discretion that makes each appearance so valuable.
These moments remind us that the sea sets its own rhythm, and that respectful observation always comes before any search for performance or certainty.
Observing cetaceans in Guadeloupe without disturbance: our commitment
At Soleil Excursions, every trip at sea is guided by respect for cetaceans and their environment. Whether it is a humpback whale, a sperm whale, or more rarely a beaked whale, our priority remains the same: to observe without disturbing, to understand, and to share.
These exceptional encounters are among those rare moments the sea sometimes offers us. They remind us that Guadeloupe is a unique territory for marine biodiversity, and that every outing can hold a surprise… even the most discreet one.
Join us from Baillargent Harbour in Pointe-Noire for a unique excursion departing from the Leeward Coast, to encounter the cetaceans of Guadeloupe.
Photo credits: Valérie Gueit.
Photographs taken in accordance with the observation protocols and approach distances of the AGOA Sanctuary.
- Source : Soleil Excursions
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