Sometimes, the ocean serves up surprises no one expects. For whale watchers off Cape Cod and Washington State, one recent trip delivered a scene straight out of a dream—a rainbow, arcing from a whale’s breath.
When Sunlight Meets a Whale’s Spout
It started like any other whale watching cruise: quiet anticipation, eyes on the waves, cameras at the ready. Then, as a whale surfaced and exhaled, sunlight hit the mist just right—and the spray exploded into a multicolored arc.
Photographer Randy McConnell was lucky enough to capture the moment. “The rainbow came as a complete surprise,” he said. “It was probably one of the most magical things I’ve ever seen.”
For a few seconds, it looked as if the whales themselves were creating rainbows in the sky—a fleeting spectacle of nature and light.
Close Encounters—And a Reminder
Whales often seem as curious about us as we are about them, gliding close to boats for a better look. But with that closeness comes risk: boat traffic can injure these gentle giants, especially since many whale species are still endangered.
Photographer Sara Shimazu, who’s followed Cape Cod’s whales for years, explained: “One of the whales I know is called ‘split fin’ because of old injuries from a boat. Even healed, the scars are a permanent reminder—we need to be ‘whale wise.’ Slow down, stay alert, and give these animals space.”
A Final Thought
A rainbow from a whale’s breath is rare, beautiful, and unforgettable. With a little care and respect, we can help make sure these magical moments aren’t just memories, but experiences future generations get to share.
