Chonburi, Thailand – On July 4, 2025, the serene shores of Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi’s Saensuk Subdistrict were abuzz with excitement as three Bryde’s whales, including a mother and her two calves, were spotted surfacing near Wonnapha Beach. The sighting, captured in a mobile phone video by local fishermen, showed the whales playfully chasing small fish, accompanied by a flock of seagulls diving for escaping prey.
Local fisherman and seafood vendor Eaksak Soemsri, 48, shared the video and photos on Facebook, crediting a fishing boat owned by Sute Chaiyabut for the footage. “We were notified early in the morning by fishermen and the ‘Beer Line’ group about the whales,” Soemsri said. “Initially, we heard of two whales, but when we went out, we found three—a mother, last year’s calf, and a newborn pink calf, about 3 meters long, riding on its mother’s back.” Soemsri, who also organizes whale-watching trips, noted that the Department of Natural Resources and Environment plans to survey the whales this Saturday to document and name them.
Ms. Waree Nimthongplod, a 68-year-old beach vendor, confirmed that Bryde’s whales visit the area annually, typically during the cooler season near Laem Taen, visible from Bang Saen Beach. “It’s rare to see them so close. I invite tourists to come witness these amazing creatures,” she said.
Phinyo Phothikul, a 26-year-old banana boat rental operator, added that Laem Taen’s quieter waters make it a prime spot for whale sightings. “Look for circling seagulls—they often signal whales feeding below. But stay 50-100 meters away to avoid disturbing them,” he advised, noting the presence of Irrawaddy and bottlenose dolphins near Khao Sam Muk.
Soemsri, who operates speedboat tours for whale watching, offers trips for 1,500 THB per person (groups of four) or 15,000 THB for groups of ten, including food, drinks, and insurance. Interested tourists can contact him at 083-5985515.
Anupap Kaewmahawong, a 40-year-old tourist from Kamphaeng Phet, expressed his excitement: “I’ve only seen dolphins before. Hearing about whales so close to shore is thrilling—I’d love to see them!”
The sighting highlights the growing presence of marine life along Thailand’s coast, with Soemsri noting an increase in food sources attracting more whales and dolphins to Bang Saen, Sri Racha, and Koh Si Chang. Visitors are encouraged to respect these animals by maintaining a safe distance to ensure their undisturbed feeding.
By Wisan Saengcharoen, Chonburi Correspondent
English article by Adam Judd for The Pattaya News
