By Beluga Boat Captain Hayley Shephard
We have long waited the for a summer day in Churchill and it finally arrived in all its splendor on July 28th. Blue sky stretched far across the horizon, mirroring the vastness of the Hudson Bay. The water was like glass, void of waves, not even a single ripple could be seen.
As soon as we were launched and making our way out of the port, whales arrived at our side, immediately surrounding us with their strong and curious presence.T hey glowed like aqua green lanterns, the very same colour you see in the sky when the Northern Lights are dancing. We could see through the water so easily, so clearly. The eyes of the Beluga’s stared back at us, their scars on the skin so easily detected and the glistening light on the body from the sun mesmerized us.
Although the vocalizations are broadcasted live through the internet and not to the boat, we could hear their thrilling calls right through the hull of the boat. One whale vocalized as it was surfacing therefore this music was heard by all in close proximity.
I am privileged to be on the water again, for another season, viewing these magnificent creatures and sharing what I see with friendly folks around the world. Yay, the Beluga Boat is back.
