Congratulations to all the winners of the 8th annual Whale SENSE photo contest! We had a total of 132 amazing photos submitted for voting this year. Like what you see? Be sure your next whale watch is with a Whale SENSE Company!

Surface Active Marine Mammals – Chris St Lawrence, American Princess Cruises

A rare look inside the mouth of a humpback whale lunge-feeding off the coast of New York City.

Tail Shot – Garry Bennett, Rudee Tours

Tail shot of humpback whale off the shore of Virgina

Mobile Phone Capture – Garry Bennett, Rudee Tours

Common dolphins playing at the side of our boat as we pass. Reminder: NOAA Fisheries viewing guidelines recommend that boaters do not intentionally direct your watercraft or accelerate toward a marine mammal with the intent of creating a pressure wake allowing them to bow or wake-ride.

Scenic View – Kristen Rayfield, Rudee Tours

Cape Henry Whale Tail

Non-Whale Marine Life – Kristen Carson, Cape May Whale Watcher

Harbor Seals hauled out on rocks off the coast of Delaware

Thanks again to everyone who submitted photos (we loved all of them), shared the albums, and voted. We hope you will continue to spread the word about the Whale SENSE program and the importance of responsible wildlife viewing. As always, feel free to explore the website for more information about the Whale SENSE program and our partners.

Stay tuned for another post announcing the runners-up for each category!

To see all photos for each category visit: