Abigail Dahl
My journey with whales began as a child when I met “Luna” (L-98), a solitary sociable orca who sparked a lifelong passion for cetaceans. Since 2017, I’ve worked seasonally with whales around the world, eventually becoming a licensed whale swim guide in Tonga, a USCG certified commercial captain, and a professional underwater photographer.
The most meaningful chapter on my journey has been working with Hvaldimir, the solitary beluga whale in Norway for two years. I worked alongside local communities to share his story, encourage respect for his well-being, and contributed to scientific research on solitary sociable cetaceans up until his death in 2024.
My work is a lifelong career path, with goals of continually developing my skills while contributing to research and conservation efforts to protect these incredible animals.
– USCG 100 Ton Near Coastal Master Captain’s License (Towing & Sailing Endorsements)
– Professional Topside & Underwater Photographer
– Solitary Sociable Cetacean Experience (2 years working with Hvaldimir the beluga whale in Norway)
– SCUBA Rescue Diver Certification
– Licensed Whale Swim Guide, Kingdom of Tonga
– Certified Salish Sea Orca & Marine Mammal Naturalist
– Certified Lifeguard
– USCG Certified CPR/ AED/ First Aid Certifications
– Basic Freediving Safety Certification
– Bachelor of Science, Marketing & International Business
