The 5 best whale videos

Close encounters with large marine mammals probably beat any other experience both under the water and while on the water. These awesome videos capture the thrills, joy and wonder of five remarkable encounters. From the drama of just missing being swallowed whole to the moving story of rescuing a young humpback whale, these brief clips are some of the best whale videos around

1. WHALES ALMOST SWALLOW DIVERS WHOLE

Prepare to be amazed – this is dramatic as any Spielberg movie. Truly a close encounter! Filmed off the coast of central California, two divers are almost swallowed – by accident – by a couple of humpback whales.

2. FACE TO FACE WITH A SPERM WHALE

Filmed by Howard Hall, DIVE’s World Editor Douglas David Seifert gets up close to a sperm whale in Dominica. Douglas has been getting up close to photograph whales for more than 20 years and is an expert on such encounters. Read his fascinating report on the booming business in Sri Lanka of such encounters and discover the pitfalls such encounters can have for both the whales and the tourists.

3. BEHIND THE PHOTO

National Geographic photographer Brian Skerry describes coming face-to-face with a southern right whale – and capturing a fantastic shot. Discover what it feels like to capture such a moment and to take such an iconic image.

4. A GRATEFUL WHALE

Some snorkellers free a whale from entanglement in discarded fishing net – and it shows its appreciation with an incredible acrobatic display. This short film highlights the growing problem lost or dumped fishing gear is causing around the world. Thankfully the careful persistence of the crew and the gentle cooperation of the distressed whale results in a happy ending in this case. The joyful celebration of the freed whale is something to behold.