More than 100 feeding adult humpbacks have put on a show to kick off the whale watching season
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While their annual migration attracts visitors all along the Far South Coast, photographer David Rogers said the large number seen feeding over the weekend in water near Haycock Point in Ben Boyd National Park was unprecedented during his career.
"It was absolutely insane. It was like sensory overload because you could actually hear and smell them," he said.
"It was a real insight to me as to what it was like in the pre-whaling days."
Merimbula Marina owner Jessica Miller witnessed the weekend's feeding event, and said one passenger on board their whale watching bost True Blue told her it was the most he had seen working together in his 24 years whale spotting.
"It was an amazing natural wonder. It was amazing to see that number of whales feeding," she said.
"Once you have an encounter you realise they are amazing animals.
"People have a real connection with them."
Photos and video shared to Merimbula Marina's Facebook page has been seen and shared by hundreds.
"Feeding events like this do not happen often and when they do they often leave us speechless!" the company posted.
"The raw energy was palpable and it was hard to know where to look. We are feeling very blessed to have been able to witness such an incredible natural wonder.
"Who knows how long they will stay on the Sapphire Coast but it is a timely reminder of how important it is to look after our oceans. They are home to so many wonderful and majestic animals. It was definitely another afternoon to remember!"
Passengers and photographers with Cat Balou Cruises, out of Eden, also enjoyed the amazing spectacle.
"What an amazing day, certainly one we won't forget in a hurry!" They said on their Facebook page.
"So many whales seen we couldn't count them all. For much of this morning's cruise we were surrounded by whales in every direction as far as the eye could see."