In a breathtaking encounter that left both locals and visitors speechless, a humpback whale found its way into Knudson Cove Marina, located near Ketchikan, Alaska.

The moment was captured on camera by Captain Cy of Strike Zone Sportfishing, offering a rare glimpse of one of nature’s most majestic creatures feeding in an unexpected location.

The video, which quickly garnered attention online, shows the massive humpback whale gracefully swimming into the marina, surfacing just a few feet away from the docked boats.

While the sight of a humpback whale is not unusual along Alaska’s coastal waters, seeing one venture so close to human activity in a marina setting is certainly out of the ordinary.

It’s a vivid reminder of the incredible wildlife that inhabits Alaska’s waters, coexisting with human settlements in unexpected ways.

For many who have visited or spent time in Knudson Cove, the video resonated on a deeply personal level.

Image Credit: YouTube, @Alaska Strike Zone Sportfishing

One online user shared their excitement by commenting, “Awesome video… I was standing on that dock last summer so I know exactly where this is at. Tell Kit Jason from the Warriors, Roberto, and big Gabe said hello!”

This particular area, located on the southeastern coast of Alaska, is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of marine wildlife.

However, even seasoned locals and fishermen were surprised by the whale’s behavior.

Another viewer questioned the logistics of the whale’s visit, commenting, “How deep is that water for a whale to feed there? Saw those docks and thought it was only like 6ft deep, but then a whale appears.”

While the depth of the water may seem shallow to those unfamiliar with the feeding habits of humpback whales, this behavior isn’t entirely out of character for these intelligent creatures.

Humpbacks often use a technique known as bubble net feeding to corral and trap schools of fish.

Image Credit: YouTube, @Alaska Strike Zone Sportfishing

By blowing bubbles in a circle or ring formation, they create a “net” that confines the fish, making it easier for the whale to feed. One viewer noted this exact phenomenon in the video, remarking, “Blowing bubbles in a ring to trap the school of fish in the curtain of air. Amazing footage.”

Humpback whales are renowned for their complex feeding strategies and cooperative hunting techniques, especially in regions like Alaska where schools of fish are plentiful during the summer months.

The presence of herring and other small fish in the marina likely attracted the whale to the area, creating the unique opportunity for this remarkable encounter.

While seeing a humpback whale in close proximity to a marina is not a daily occurrence, it highlights the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world in places like Alaska.

As cities and towns expand along the coast, interactions between wildlife and humans become more common, reminding us of the importance of conservation and mindful coexistence with the environment around us.

In the end, this stunning video serves as a reminder of the incredible wildlife that roams just beyond the docks. Captain Cy’s footage has provided a unique window into the world of these majestic creatures, sparking curiosity and excitement among viewers around the world.

Whether you’re a local who frequents the docks of Knudson Cove or a nature enthusiast watching from afar, it’s moments like these that remind us of the wonder and beauty of the natural world.

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