Curious humpback whale surprises snorkeler off Gold Coast

By Ivan PetrenkoSep 2, 2024 23:30 PMNews
Share:
Tail of a humpback whale above water
Humpback whales can reach up to 60 feet. Source: unsplash

An unusual incident occurred off the Gold Coast of Australia when a humpback whale unexpectedly tossed a snorkeler into the air. The incident took place during an organized swim with these marine giants, catching one of the group's guides by surprise.

Two YouTubers on board a tour boat captured the moment when the massive whale launched a person out of the water. Humpback whales, which can grow up to 60 feet long, often show curiosity towards boats and swimmers. Although such encounters usually end peacefully, being in close proximity to wild animals always carries potential risks.

Fortunately, the man involved was unharmed and soon rejoined the group, smiling and high-fiving the other snorkelers. While this incident could have resulted in serious injuries, it ended safely this time.

This incident serves as a reminder to tourists and marine adventure enthusiasts about the importance of maintaining a safe distance and respecting wildlife. Humpback whales, though not aggressive, can accidentally cause harm due to their size and strength. Swimming with whales remains a popular activity in Australia, attracting thousands of tourists every year, but it requires a responsible approach and respect for marine life.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
More News
Wizz Air aircraft taking off above an airport runway

Wizz Air Opens a Montenegro Route from Ljubljana

Jun 4, 2026 10:17 AM
Alicante city skyline with Santa Bárbara Castle at sunset

Alicante Lands on Air Serbia’s Summer Map

Jun 4, 2026 10:04 AM

A Famous Spanish Pilgrimage City Just Got Closer to Cork

Jun 4, 2026 09:51 AM

Cyprus Gets a Travel Confidence Lift

Jun 4, 2026 09:48 AM
Loganair crew and airport staff mark the new East Midlands to Jersey route beside an aircraft

East Midlands Gets a Daily Jersey Link

Jun 4, 2026 09:35 AM
Cars queuing outside an airport terminal drop-off area

Norwich Airport Raises Drop-Off Fee

Jun 4, 2026 09:22 AM
FlixBus logo painted on a marked bus stop area

BER Gets a Bigger FlixBus Map

Jun 3, 2026 17:49 PM
Passengers queueing inside a European airport terminal

Wizz Air Warns Brits on EU Queues

Jun 3, 2026 15:16 PM
Woman speaking through a megaphone during a public protest

Portugal Strike Puts Flights at Risk

Jun 3, 2026 15:03 PM

Billund Gets Ready for Summer Take-Off

Jun 2, 2026 18:07 PM

Air Europa Adds Two Spanish Routes

Jun 2, 2026 01:14 AM
Passengers seated inside an aircraft cabin during a flight

Bad Flyers Could Face UK Blacklist

Jun 2, 2026 01:01 AM
Eiffel Tower and gardens in Paris on a clear day

Loganair Opens Its First France Route

Jun 2, 2026 00:58 AM
Leo Express train standing on railway tracks

Central Europe Gets a 1,300km Train Link

Jun 2, 2026 00:45 AM
Green FlixBus coach parked near a waterfront terminal

Poland’s Bus 666 Rolls Back to Hel

Jun 1, 2026 11:22 AM

Fairmont Brings a Cheshire Estate Back

May 31, 2026 05:09 AM

Lufthansa Adds More Allegris Routes

May 31, 2026 04:56 AM
Guest room at Kove Hotel & Spa Mykonos

Aegean Coast Gets a New Boutique Stay

May 31, 2026 04:43 AM
Passengers near all gates sign inside an airport terminal

France Opens e-Gates to UK Travellers

May 31, 2026 04:37 AM
Air Transat aircraft landing against a blue sky

Montreal Gets a Direct Istanbul Flight

May 31, 2026 04:24 AM
Health worker in protective clothing holding up a gloved hand

Ebola Rules Hit Summer Travel Plans

May 31, 2026 04:11 AM
Santorini terrace overlooking the caldera and sea

Leeds Bradford Gets More Greece for 2027

May 31, 2026 04:08 AM

Warsaw Gets 12 New Ryanair Routes

May 31, 2026 03:55 AM

easyJet Cuts Summer Fares for Payday

May 31, 2026 03:42 AM
Ferry sailing across open blue water

Cyprus and Lebanon Get a Ferry Link

May 30, 2026 01:59 AM
Exterior of a Spark by Hilton hotel building

Milan Linate Gets a New Hilton Stay

May 30, 2026 01:46 AM