First with whaling and now with research. Some whales are naturally curious. The Mink whale has been know to approach a boat to within 20 to 30 yards. After one quick pass, they usually go back to their main goal, feeding. Whale watching is a popular activity in the Northwest, especially during migration.
Cetaceans are the only animals other than the elephant to have a brain larger than a human.
This may account for its unusual sensory abilities and intelligence. With more research some day this may be a proven fact.