Rafter Survives Unbelievable Encounter with Humpback Whale in Patagonia

Adrián Simancas experienced a shocking brush with a humpback whale in the waters of Chile’s Patagonia, where he was momentarily swallowed and then expelled. His father managed to capture the surreal event on video, showcasing the unexpected encounter.

In a jaw-dropping incident off the coast of Patagonia, 23-year-old Adrián Simancas had a breathtaking encounter with a humpback whale while packrafting near San Isidro Lighthouse. The young man and his father, Dell, were navigating the choppy waters when suddenly, from the depths, a massive whale lunged toward them. As if in a surreal twist of fate, the whale seemed to envelop Mr. Simancas, pulling him into its open mouth.

Describing his experience, Simancas recalled, “I felt something hit me from behind — all this happened in a second — something dark blue or white enveloped me, and a slimy texture brushed my face.” He remembers closing his eyes, bracing for impact and expecting the worst, but was instead greeted by the sensation of water surrounding him.

After what felt like an eternity, he was buoyed back to the surface by his life jacket, followed closely by his inflatable raft. The majestic creature, estimated to be the size of a kayak, surfaced momentarily before diving out of sight. The entire incident was captured on video by his father, providing breathtaking and heart-stopping footage of the encounter.

The Simancases were enjoying a day of packrafting amidst the rich wildlife of the region, known for its sea lions, eagles, and majestic whales, but little did they expect such an extraordinary close encounter. Given the nature of the event, it serves as a stunning reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of nature.