Charlie Young

Standing on the bow I scanned the horizon for signs of whales when out of the corner of my eye I saw a dark shadow rise out of the water and come crashing down with a colossal splash. I watched as the shadow rose again, but this time not just one, but two. ✨

Precariously balanced in some rough conditions I attempted to photograph the dance, hoping that if I was lucky, at least one photo would come out in focus. Here is the result.

It’s by no means perfect, but it’s my favourite photo from our X .roamer expedition yet.

Heading out the remote banks to survey for whales here has been full of surprises, and seeing these two grown whales breaching in unison was something I will never forget.

There’s lots of different theories on why they do this. Explanations include communication, competition and parasite removal.

My theory having watched these two is that they are friends or lovers. We’ve seen plenty of heat runs where the males growl and smash into one another in a vicious frenzy. But these two seemed to be breaching together out of pure joy.

I’m calling it “The dance of giants” - shot on a6400 📸

It’s hard to imagine the world without her in it. But I am just so eternally grateful for everything she has done. Let her spirit live on in all the ways she inspired us—with her tireless dedication to the natural world, her deep compassion for animals, and her unwavering belief in the power of hope! ✨❤️

It’s been a struggle…

So grateful to my husband, family and friends who’ve supported me through all the ups and downs.

Here’s to getting better! ❤️‍🩹