This article from Daily Mail features stunning photos of divers swimming with huge whales, as well as insights from one of the divers.
Swimming next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea.
The amazing photographs were captured by an underwater diving company while out exploring the ocean in Tonga.
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| Deep sea swim: Swimming next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea. Image Source: www.dailymail.co.uk |
Scott Portelli, 41, manager of Swimming with Gentle Giants, said: 'I have been swimming with whales in Tonga for over 12 years.
'It's hard to describe a feeling, but from a visual perspective, we are in a vast blue environment with a 40 tonne, 18 metre long whale.
'Whales are the gentle giants of the sea and humpbacks specifically are the most charismatic, they are curious and will often seek out interactions with humans.
'I never feel in danger even though they have the ability to swipe me like a fly with their enormous tail if they wanted, but they are so thoughtful conscious of your space they will manoeuvre within inches of you.'
As well as whales, other underwater life such as dolphins, manta rays, turtles, blue marlin, sharks and seals occasionally pop along to enjoy the experience.
Mr Portelli added: 'People have come out of the water in tears after being in the water with a whale; some cry with joy and amazement, and some just can't speak as they take in the experience.
'It is clear that its life changing for anyone that swims with a whale, their perspective changes, and swimming with whales is addictive, I have so many returning guests each year.
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| Life of luxury: Scott Portelli, 41, manager of Swimming with Gentle Giants, said: 'I have been swimming with whales in Tonga for over 12 years'. Image Source: www.dailymail.co.uk |
'My simple aim is to raise awareness of these beautiful animals.
'The Japanese hunt 1050 whales every summer, but there is no reason for this lethal form of research.
'It is great being around like minded people as well as being able to bring joy to people that experience the whales, I couldn't imagine doing anything else.'
Phil Newsum is an advocate of commercial diving. He serves as the executive director of the Association of Diving Contractors International, Inc. Visit this Facebook page for more articles about diving.
