Close Encounter: Rafter Swallowed and Spat Out by Whale in Patagonia

During a packrafting adventure in the waters of Chilean Patagonia, 23-year-old Adrián Simancas experienced a surreal moment when a humpback whale lunged at him, leading to a brief "swallowing" before he was spat back out. His father captured the astonishing event on video.

Paddling through the picturesque yet unpredictable waters of Chile’s Patagonia, 23-year-old Adrián Simancas and his father, Dell, were enjoying their packrafting expedition near the San Isidro Lighthouse when an unexpected event unfolded. Without warning, a massive humpback whale emerged, lunging and apparently swallowing Simancas whole before rolling back into the water.

The startling moment was caught on film by his father, who recorded the incident as it happened. Simancas recounted the experience in a recent interview, stating, “I felt something hit me from behind—everything occurred in an instant. I was enveloped by something dark blue or white, and the sensation of slimy texture brushed against my face.”

In a matter of seconds, Simancas found himself submerged and expecting a harsh impact. However, he quickly realized he was merely engulfed in water, inside the mouth of a whale. “I had closed my eyes, expecting the worst, but then I felt my life jacket pulling me upwards, and suddenly I was free,” he recalled.

Fortunately, moments later, he resurfaced along with his inflatable packraft. The sheer size of the whale was evident as its dark back surfaced behind him, dwarfing Simancas before it submerged into the depths of the ocean once again.

This captivating encounter took place amidst thrilling wildlife scenery uniquely characteristic of the region, known for its stunning forests, diverse marine life, including sea lions and eagles, and majestic whales frequenting the coastline. Adrián and his father emphasize the importance of enjoying nature responsibly amid these astonishing wildlife interactions.