Windsurfer Collides with Gray Whale in SF Bay

A windsurfer in San Francisco Bay collided with a gray whale on March 24, launching him into the water in a startling encounter captured on video near Crissy Field Beach. The rider, identified as Eric Kramer, escaped unharmed, as did the whale, which surfaced abruptly in his path despite his efforts to slow down after spotting marine life nearby.

The incident unfolded during a routine windsurfing session under calm conditions. Footage shows Kramer gliding across the bay before the whale breaches just feet ahead, causing an immediate impact that sends him flying off his board. He surfaces moments later, floating beside his equipment, while the whale slips back underwater. Bystanders gasped in surprise, according to audio in the video, which has since circulated widely online, drawing thousands of views and reactions.

Kramer, the technical director for Olympic surfing, later shared his account on social media. "It was a whale of a day," he wrote. "Please be cautious and respect wildlife. I had reduced my speed greatly because I had seen a couple whales in the area, but on my last run back it just popped up right in front of me. Glad we are both ok." Federal regulations require...