Whales, whales everywhere – sightings abound. From Crown Bay, yes, Crown Bay, to Hull Bay the frolicking mammals have been spotted in the past week.
For a close-up look at the creatures, the Environmental Association of St. Thomas-St. John is hosting its annual whale watches Saturday, Feb. 26, and Sunday, Feb. 27.
"Last year was so exciting — we saw a mother and calf playing near our boat," said EAST president, Carla Joseph. "And this year should be even better," Joseph said, "as they are being spotted in record numbers now."
In addition to local boat captains signaling any sightings to the watch boat, spotter pilots from private aircraft will report from above. "This," Joseph said, "along with the sightings already on record, should make this year's watch really exciting."
Eco-guides for this year are Steve Prosterman, of the University of the Virgin Islands marine science department, and wildlife expert Craig Barshinger. The watches will be aboard the Jolly Mon catamaran, and depart at 8:30 a.m. each day from the National Park Dock in Red Hook, and return at 4 p.m.
To join in the fun, Joseph suggests signing up for the event early, as the watch is usually a sell out. Tickets for the event must be purchased in advance. They are $45 for EAST members, and $55 for nonmembers, and can be purchased at Nisky Mail Service, East End Secretarial, Connections in St. John and from the EAST office on Norre Gade above Pearl Vision Center. The office is open every weekday except Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Joseph advises watchers to bring sun screen, water, lunch, towels and cameras. The whales, hopefully, will be supplied. The boat will anchor for swimming and snorkeling at an offshore cay.
EAST is a nonprofit, volunteer run organization dedicated to environmental education, awareness and advocacy. For more information, call (340) 776-1976 or (340) 693-3564.