It is led by American marine biologist Dr. Michael Poole, an expert on, and advocate for, these practically human aquatic mammals. Numerous cetaceans are in evidence in this Moorea spot. But first, Dr. Poole waits to see if the whales seem up for company.
He interprets their tail-flipping as a definite yes, and we climb into the water to watch the whales close up. They are lively but alert, keeping their intelligent eyes on us as we peer intently at them.
Among these playful yet watchful creatures are a mother humpback whale with her curious but shy calf. At about 12 feet long, he’s just a toddler, and feels most secure half-huddled against his mama.
The commotion in the ocean attracts some dolphins, who join the mammalian party. Hey, I realize, I’m a mammal. I’m a swimmer. I belong here. And I almost have to be hauled out of the water.
Finally it is the last night of our Star flyer voyage around French Polynesia. Tomorrow we dock back in Tahiti. The mood at the ship’s bar is euphoric, especially among those who went whale watching.
But it’s bittersweet, too. No one wants our seaborne tropical idyll to end. We vow there will be others, and those of us who are not already repeat Star Clippers passengers will soon be.
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