Humpback whale swims with paddleboarder in Ireland

This beautiful video of a humpback whale swimming alongside paddle boarders in Cork, Ireland, has been shared online.

Lucky Jason Coniry can be seen in the footage just feet from the whale in Inchydoney, West Cork, on Wednesday evening.

Amazing pictures were also uploaded on friend Sean Casey's Facebook page.

Speaking to the Irish Examniner, he said: "I still can't believe this happened but she swam right toward my board, rolled on her back and submersed just feet in front; she lifted me and the board very gently out of the water with her pectoral fin and then circled a few times passing under again.

"After being lifted from the water I ended up on the whale's side for a moment. Such a magnificent creature and such a magical experience. I feel very grateful."

He added, however, that the animals must be respected, saying that he has many years' experience in the water and around wildlife. "It's not a good idea for everyone to jump in the water with these animals," he said.

"We all should be respectful of our own limitations, and we must be respectful of these animals."

Singing the praises of Ireland's natural beauty, Coniry added: "Our Irish coastline is largely unexplored and untapped, the West coast is one of the best places in the world to explore by paddleboard and we have amazing lakes and waterways all over the country. It's great to be able to make the most of that."

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