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I've been whale watching a few times, and found it quite thrilling to see backs and tails break the surface. But, I always thought it would be really cool to be able to view the entire whale. Humpbacks are beautiful creatures with interesting whale songs. But, belugas are rare, mystical beasts, capable of facial expressions. Recently, I went on a fascinating outing and, let me tell you, whale hugging is better than whale watching any day of the week. This is my White Whale Tale...

Cumbersome gear is required for snorkeling big goggles, heavy-duty wetsuits, goofy flippers, etc. But, it seems, unbecoming water-wear can also sometimes be deemed necessary to stand in depths of only 3 to 4 feet.

At Connecticut's Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, for example, a most unflattering outfit is mandatory to gain participation in their very unique program.

One day, decked out in a tight-fitting pair of brown wading overalls, with clunky boots attached, I stepped into a 750,000 gallon salt water pool to interact with white whales.

Now, I usually like to experience marine animals in a natural environment. But, since I don't plan on taking a dip in the Arctic seas anytime soon, this mystical Mystic Encounter seemed to be my best bet. And, I figured, sharing personal space with a beluga would beat observing humpbacks from the deck of a boat any day.

The Aquarium is home to Inuk, Kela and Naku, who have the distinction of being the only ivory whales in New England, and three of only twenty or so such marine animals in all of North America. And, these beluga beauties did not fail to impress.

First of all, the program, which runs on select days throughout the year for an additional fee, was much more hands-on than I could have ever imagined. Just by following some very simple verbal instructions, I was given the chance to feel the magic of these magnificent creatures. I held my arms out in front of me to form a half-circle and, with that one easy motion, I had opened myself up to a once in a lifetime experience.

A rounded head gently broke the surface of the water and came to rest inside my grasp. So, there I was, standing in awe. I was actually hugging a beluga whale around the neck.

During the course of this session, I was also able to touch a front flipper with an open palm, and thus give Kela "five". And, with little disregard for her thirty or so teeth, I put my hand directly inside this beluga's mouth to give her a nice tongue rub. It was oddly interesting, and the animal really seemed to enjoy the attention. She opened up nice and wide and, because this particular species of whale is able to change the shape of its mouth, her facial expression actually seemed to be one of joy. It really looked as if this white whale was smiling. I know I certainly was.

I even got to hear two of these creatures, which are relatives of the dolphin and porpoise, emit little clicks, squeaks and whistles underwater. I don't know exactly what they may have been saying, but I do hope that these sociable creatures, like me, had a whale of a good time.

Learn more about this author, Sheryl J. Miller.
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