Animated Padstow Sealife Safaris Logo
Book a trip
Book

Fin Whales

Fin whales are extremely rare whale species found in UK waters and are seen maybe once a year on our Sealife Safaris.
White waves
White waves

About Fin Whales

Scientific Name: Balaenoptera physalus

The Fin whale is the second largest species of whale in the world (second only to the Blue whale), growing up to 27 metres long. They are fast swimmers and deep divers, reaching speeds of nearly 30mph and diving over 200 metres deep – deeper than other rorqual whales like Blue and Sei whales can dive. Their diet consists mainly of krill, small fish and crustaceans, but due to their enormous size, they have to consume up to 2000kg of food each day!

Share with a friend:

100+ years

Average Lifespan

Crustaceans & Fish

Diet

100,000

Population

Did you know?

Fin whales are the second largest whale in the world and can weigh up to 48 tons, equivalent to around 180 Effiel Towers

How often do you see Fin Whales on a boat trip?

Fin whales are extremely rare but your best chance of seeing one is being out at sea during late summer. ​Book a boat trip and if you count yourself lucky you may get to see these beautiful creatures. If you are looking for a Fin whale Look across the horizon. Make sure you scan your eyes slowly from left to right while on the boat and take note of anything that breaks the surface of the ocean water. 

Explore our boat trips
Blue waves
Blue waves

FAQs about Fin Whales

How do i identify a Fin Whale?

Fin whales are unusual cetaceans in that their appearance is asymmetrical with its jaw being black on the left side and white on the right side.

What do Fin Whales eat?

Their diet consists mainly of krill, small fish and crustaceans, but due to their enormous size, they have to consume up to 2000kg of food each day!

Where does the Fin whales get their name from?

The Fin whale is also known as the Finback whale gets it’s name from a distinct ridge along their back behind the dorsal fin.

Where is popular to see Fin whales?

Fin whales are commonly seen in the coast of Iceland and on the Azores of the Gulf of St.

How fast can Fin whales swim?

Fin whales can reach speeds of nearly 30mph and diving over 200 metres deep

More of cornwall's amazing sealife...

Padstow Sealife Safaris give you the chance to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. Depending on the time of year that you choose to visit, you’ll have the chance to see a number of different species.

Seals

One of Cornwall’s most beloved and regularly sighted residents. The UK is home to around 40% of the world’s entire population of this globally rare seal!
Learn about Seals

Dolphins

Become a dolphin expert learning everything from diet to their links with aliens! Learn all about our favourite marine friend.
Learn about Dolphins
Dolphin swimming looking at the camera

Harbour Porpoise

This loveable creature is rather shy. But the crew of the sealife safari vessels have clocked up considerable experience in knowing how to get the best views.
Learn about Harbour Porpoise

Seabirds

We are lucky to have a rich variety of habitats on our doorstep, attracting many different species of birds, both as residents and migrants passing through.
Learn about Seabirds

Jellyfish

Jellyfish can be found all over our UK coastlines as well as in all of the global oceans, but how much do you actually know about the magnificent jellyfish?
Learn about Jellyfish
Blue shark close up

Sharks

Sharks might have a fearsome reputation, but most rarely attack humans. They are a vital part of our ecosystem and we often spot sharks in Cornwall! 
Learn about Sharks

Whales

Think you need to travel much further afield to see whales? Think again! We are seeing an increasing number of whales in Cornwall and the UK, and your best chance for whale sightings is via our coastal boat trips.
Learn about Whales
Sunfish in cornwall

Fish

Become a fish expert learning everything from what they feed on to their behaviour! Learn all about fish that surround our beautiful coastline in Cornwall
Learn about Fish

start your ocean adventure today.

Check our booking calendar for availability:

Book your boat trip
Darkl blue waves
Darkl blue waves
Boat Trips & Tours
Quick Links
Latest Posts
Connect

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +44 (0) 77 54 82 24 04

Find us: Padstow Harbour, Cornwall, PL28 8BP

ionicons-v5_logos TikTok icon
Travellers Choice 2022 Trip Advisor Award

Our boat trips are great in all weather conditions!

Come rain or shine, our boat trips are suitable for most weather conditions. 

Book your trip today! 

©2023 Padstow Sealife Safaris – Sitemap | Website Terms | Privacy

Powered by Green Hosting
Book a trip
Instagram Facebook Twitter Youtube TikTok icon