Windsurfer Collides with Gray Whale in San Francisco Bay

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A San Francisco windsurfer named Eric Kramer was knocked off his board when he slammed into a surfacing gray whale in San Francisco Bay. The collision was captured on video, and Kramer later stated that both he and the whale seemed unharmed. This incident comes amid concerns over the declining gray whale population in the region, with several dead whales found around the bay in recent days.

Why it matters

Gray whales have faced a yearslong population decline, and this collision highlights the need for increased awareness and caution when recreating in areas where these endangered marine mammals are present. The incident also raises questions about vessel traffic and its impact on the whales' wellbeing.

The details

The video shows Kramer being knocked off his windsurfing board as the gray whale breaches the surface in front of him. Kramer later wrote that he had slowed down after spotting whales in the area, but the collision still occurred. While both Kramer and the whale appeared unharmed, the incident comes after a female gray whale was found dead last month, believed to have been struck by a vessel. Three more dead whales have been discovered around the bay in recent days.

• The collision occurred on April 2, 2026.
• A female gray whale was found dead last month, believed to have been struck by a vessel.
• Three more dead whales have been discovered around the bay in recent days.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities will likely investigate the recent spate of gray whale deaths in the San Francisco Bay area to determine the causes and take steps to protect the endangered marine mammals.