These are some of my favorite photos from one of the most unforgettable encounters of my trip. Watching humpback whales playing with rough-toothed dolphins was a spectacular sight. We were fortunate enough to spend three hours with them (my legs definitely felt it after all that swimming!). They were vocalizing, twirling, and blowing streams of bubbles!
Scientists have documented over 190 interactions between whales and dolphins across the world, with many showing signs of play and curiosity rather than competition. Humpbacks in particular are known to roll, expose their bellies, or turn their fins toward dolphins—behaviors thought to be social or affiliative.
Rough-toothed dolphins are highly social and intelligent, and when they come together with humpbacks, the encounters often look like pure play: bow-riding, close swimming, and shared vocalizations. Researchers suggest these cross-species interactions may serve as a form of social bonding, mental stimulation, or simply the joy of connection in the open ocean.
What do you think the whales and dolphins are saying to each other?
-Victoria
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