Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) are easily recognizable, as they have a big head which covers about 1/3 of their bodies. You may be left wondering, why are they called sperm whales instead of big head whales? This is because inside this massive head, there is an oily liquid called spermaceti. In the past, whalers confused this liquid for sperm, and for that reason, they called these whales sperm whales. The function of the sperm-like liquid is still uncertain, but many researchers believe it aids their buoyancy or echolocation.
A Bit About Sperm Whales
Sperm whales have the largest brain of any whale and can dive up to 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) deep to hunt for giant squid and fish. This “freediving” can last up to 90 minutes, and once back to the surface, the whale breathes for several minutes. While diving down, sperm whales eat giant and colossal squid, octopus, cephalopods, cuddle fish, and a variety of other fish, however, their primary diet consists mainly of squid.
Only the lower jaw of this whale is equipped with conical teeth, while the upper jaw has cavities in which the lower teeth are inserted when the mouth is closed. The shape of the teeth suggests that these whales don’t use them to bite or tear their prey. Rather, researchers think that sperm whales swallow their prey whole.
Female sperm whales can form pods of 15-20, including their calves, while males are more solitary animals. The sperm whale is a pelagic mammal with a worldwide range, and will migrate seasonally for feeding and breeding. Females and young males live together in groups, called pods, of 15-10, while mature males, or bulls, live solitary outside of the mating season.
The only known natural predator to the sperm whale is a pod of killer whales. Although these attacks are rare, they have been observed in the wild, and are known to cause sperm whales to produce ambergris, which you may have heard of, since it is commonly used in perfumes and essences. Ambergris is, put quite simply, sperm whale vomit. Very fancy, isn’t it?
The Best Places for Whale Watching with Sperm Whales
The following are the world’s best places to watch sperm whales in their natural habitat. Let’s check out these bucket list destinations.
Reykjavík and Húsavík, Iceland
This cold and beautiful island offers the opportunity to participate in excellent whale watching. Iceland has become one of Europe’s premier whale-watching destinations. Whale watching is as essential a part of any trip to Iceland as seeing the well-known Northern Lights, Hot Springs, and Glaciers. Here you can observe humpback whales, minke whale, sperm whales, killer whales and dolphins. The area’s whale watching excursions last half a day and, although you can see whales all year round, we recommend going between May and August.
In clear weather, you should be able to see a vast amount of iconic Icelandic sites on a tour from Reykjavík. To the south, you will be able to see the cone-shaped volcanoes that line the barren and haunting Reykjanes Peninsula. Whereas to the North, it is often possible to see Snæfellsjökull Glacier.
Best Time: May to August
Baja California Sur, Mexico
Are you planning a trip to Mexico? We suggest visiting Baja California Sur. Here you’ll find beautiful landscapes and local culture as well as excellent whale watching possibilities. Baja California’s UNESCO protected bays, meaning whales here are protected from big boats, water pollution and hunting, combined with the naturally calm, warm and nutrient-rich waters, make it the perfect breeding spot for sperm whales and grey whales, as well as many other species.
Most tours in Baja, no matter which type of whale you’re going to see, use Mexican pangas, 22 foot (6.7 metre) fibreglass boats capable of holding only 8-10 people. These boats, usually operated by local fishermen turned expert whale guides, allow for a fantastic trip.
We also recommend visiting Bahía Magdalena, San Ignacio lagoon, Guerrero Negro and Ojo de Liebre Lagoon.
Best Time: January to March
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Pico Island, Azores
Pico Island is one of the 9 islands in the archipelago of the Azores, located in the Atlantic Ocean. Over 20 species of whales and dolphins either inhabit or pass by our waters along their migratory routes, making Pico one of the best spots in the world for whale watching. Every year these waters host about 20 species of cetaceans, including sperm whales, blue whales, fin whales and dolphins.
Known in the past as an important ground for sperm whale hunting, since the mid 80’s the Azores have become one of the best case studies of how the presence of whales and dolphins can be turned into an ecologically sustainable business, with educational value and full protection of the animals. After an introductory briefing, your whale watching tour will begin. Some operators even use a hydrophone so that you will be able to hear the whales in addition to seeing them.
Best Time: Mid-May to October
Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand
Whales thrive close to Kaikoura because of its unusual submarine landscape. The continental shelf drops quickly into a number of extremely deep underwater canyons. In addition, a warm current from the north meets a colder one from the south. This causes nutrients from deep within the ocean to be carried upward, a phenomenon that helps to support all types of marine life from plankton and krill to dolphins and whales.
In the small town of Kaikoura, located on the east coast of the South Island, whale watching tours are a major part of the tourism industry. These boats travel the high seas in order to spot large cetaceans such as sperm whales and humpback whales. These excursions last 3-4 hours and will give you unforgettable memories. Furthermore, this trip is most suitable for those who love both the sea and the mountains.
Best Time: June to August
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Andenes, Norway
In northern Norway is the village of Andenes, which has a long tradition of fishing but is now famous for whale-watching.
Andenes is a good starting point for whale watching tours because it is very close to the edge of the continental shelf where whales are often feeding. This makes the travel time to the whale grounds short, allowing you more time to spend among the whales. During Norway’s summer, you can see sperm whales, killer whales and pilot whales.
Many operators will also include tickets to the nearby Whale Museum. The museum covers a number of topics on whale biology, the ecosystem they live in and specific information about the local conditions that enable whale watching from Andenes. The museum also has a real skeleton of a sperm whale!
Best Time: Late May to Mid-September
The Best Places for Swimming with Sperm Whales
If you’re ready to jump in the water and get a more subversive experience with sperm whales, check out the following list of the best places to swim with sperm whales in the world.
Dominica, Caribbean Sea
Of volcanic origin, the enchanting Commonwealth of Dominica, is 290 square miles (750 square kilometers). Worthy of note are its marine environments, which are of particular interest for scuba divers. It’s possible to do both whale watching and swimming with sperm whales nearby.
Dominica’s sheer underwater drop-offs create deep sheltered bays along its western coastline–the perfect haven for the sperm whale to breed and calve. Swimming is limited to a few people at a time, so it is necessary to obtain special permission to do so. The local government is trying to preserve and protect these animals. In addition to sperm whales, you might see pods of dolphins and false killer whales.
Best Time: February to March
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Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is known for its rich marine treasures. Not only is it the home to the largest population of blue whales in the world, it is a known feeding area for pods of sperm whales during the same season. Would you like to see sperm whales, blue whales, dolphins and other amazing sea creatures? You should visit Sri Lanka and go to Trincomalee, a beautiful town on the eastern coast.
From this sleepy beach destination, half-day whale watching tours depart year-round, but the best time to swim with super pods of sperm whales is in February and March. Do not miss the opportunity to discover a fascinating tropical island and participate in some of the world’s best whale watching and swimming.
Best Time: February to March
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Encounters with Sperm Whales – Things To Keep in Mind
We always recommend following the code of conduct while enjoying sperm whale encounters. It’s the best way to respect these gentle giants. We suggest verifying that the company providing your whale tour is registered and has a permit to do so. It’s also best to use eco-friendly companies. This will ensure you have the best possible experience while knowing that the whales and environment are respected.
Common Questions About Sperm Whales
How Big is a Sperm Whale?
These mammals are large-toothed whales, and can grow up to 49 to 55 feet (15 to 18 meters) long.
How Much Do Sperm Whales Weigh?
They can reach a weight of 35-45 tons. In this species, females are smaller than males.
How Long is the Gestation Period of Sperm Whales?
Gestation, more commonly known as pregnancy, lasts 14-16 months.
How Much Does a Baby Sperm Whale Weigh at Birth?
Babies are about 13 feet (4 meters) long and weigh up to 1 ton.
How Long Do Sperm Whales Live?
Their lifespan is about 70 years.
What Do Sperm Whales Eat?
They can eat up to an entire ton of food per day! Their favorite meals include large squid, octopus and fish.
How Often Do Sperm Whales Need to Eat?
There is no precise answer to this question. Usually, there are two phases in the life of a whale every year. During the first phase, the whales eat as much as possible to accumulate fat and energy. During the second phase, the whales do not eat, instead focusing their energy on mating rituals.
How Many Sperm Whales Are Left in the World Today?
The population is estimated to be around 100,000. Their current population trend is unknown, as these animals are harder to study than most.
Are Sperm Whales an Endangered Species?
No, but they are considered “VU” (Vulnerable) by the IUCN.
How Fast Can Sperm Whales Swim?
Their big tail allows them to reach speeds of about 23 mph (37 kph).
What Sounds Do Sperm Whales Produce?
Listen to the sound that they produce in order to echolocate.
Where Can You Find Sperm Whales?
Take a look at the home range map of sperm whales.
If swimming or watching these majestic creatures is on your bucket list, amazing options abound! Not sure where to start planning? Browse all the available dive resorts, liveaboards and day trips on PADI Travel.
Credits: This article was written by Mario Passoni, a marine biologist involved in several projects concerning ocean conservation and education. Special thanks to Wayne Sentman from the Oceanic Society as well as Thalia Martinez.
