September 30:

What a wonderful day we had for our last tour of the season! We could not have asked for anything more. There was an abundance of sightings it seemed in every direction we looked, beginning with a large blow being sighted off into the distance and well ahead of viewing the humpback whale that eventually showed itself. As we drew near, two breaches were observed. At the same time a second humpback whale was sighted and then a third, followed simultaneously by a glimpse of a single dorsal fin. What excitement and joy! The first orca that we sighted at a distance was later identified as A39 and suddenly a second smaller fin was seen, followed by several more dorsal fins. Until our sighting there had not been any reports of orcas in the area and yet there they were; the A30 matriline, foraging steadily in Blackfish Sound. The weather was glorious with wind conditions perfect for hoisting both the stay sail and the main. It was pure magic, moving quietly along, sailing with the whales as they foraged. Stellar sea lions were in the water swimming, one was viewed catching a salmon while others, with much splashing, were seen to be interacting with one of the humpback whales, rolling all over and around it. Where to look and in which direction to head after our wonderful encounter with the orcas! The humpback whales were magnificent, their dive sequence a graceful sight to behold. Traveling home via the island waterways with its sparkling kelp forests, numerous stellar sea lions and some harbour seals were observed hauled out, the sight and sound of the sea lions, their bodies glistening in the sunshine was an interesting sight to see. The final day in September: a season still showing great change and transition for all species, from high above the water to far below it. Throughout the tour, numerous flocks of birds were sighted high in the sky heading south east on their migratory journey. Mindful of the distance they travel, their flight formations ever changing and creating dramatic ribbons in the sky, they were a wonderful sight to see.

With gratitude and thankfulness for the powerfully inspiring and unforgettable images of the day, our final tour of the season had come to an end and our guests departed, all of them, acknowledging the spectacular beauty and wonder of this very special place on planet earth, that like all other natural habitats, must be respected and cared for by “we humans” who live here now.

Some wonderful days of viewing!

September 29: The A30 matriline were sighted again out in the Queen Charlotte Strait, they were foraging near to the Foster Islands, moving slowly eastbound. There was barely a breathe of wind and glassy calm waters that made the viewing superb!
The orcas were mostly silent although some A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone.

September 28: Another beautiful and spectacular day of marine mammal sightings! What a wonderful day this turned out to be! Just when we thought there were no orcas in the area and we were focusing on the humpback whales who seemed to be every which way we looked, as blow after blow was sighted with some very good viewing close by, an orca fin was sighted off into the distance. How wonderful that sighting was and soon, the A30 matriline were identified. Everyone on board had a beautiful day of sunshine and marine mammal sightings.

September 26: There were no orcas in the area but the sightings of three humpback whales close by were wonderful. Everywhere passengers looked, humpback whale blows could be seen. There were seven humback whales in the near vicinity in total. A myriad of bird species, stellar sea lions and harbour seals were also seen.

Fall has arrived for sure! Today it was cool and a south east wind was blowing on the water in Johnstone Strait. The A30 matriline were foraging at Cracroft Point, they were well spread out and were focusing intensely on feeding. Because of wind conditions our stay sail was raised enabling easy manoeuvreing, back and forth in the flood current in Blakney Passage while passengers observed the orcas forage. Leaving the area and traveling into Blackfish Sound, the water was calm and soon the blows of two humpback whales were sighted. It was wonderful watching the dive sequences of the pair and glimpsing their flukes when they dived. A large grouping of stellar sea lions were observed hauled out, some 130+ others in the water. Other sightings today were: Dalls porpoises, harbour seals hauled out, sooty shearwaters, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, white-winged scoters, surf scoters, oyster catchers, common mergansers in flight, bald eagles and an eaglet nearby the nest, california gulls and glaucous-winged gulls.

This morning when we left Alder Bay the fog was clearing and soon the beauty of Johnstone Strait was revealed, a silver-lit waterway and a sun high in the sky that was shining bright. It was beautiful and so welcome, to again see the seascape and islands after the very heavy fog of yesterday. The A30 matriline were reported in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they were at the east end, headed east but turned and began making their way back to the west. While most of the blows could be seen at Critical Point inside the Reserve, two orcas were sighted on the Cracroft side, they were identified as A30 and A38. They were foraging steadily to the west, as were the rest of the family, parallel on the VI shore inside the Reserve. Two pacific white-sided dolphins were observed swimming nearby which resulted in A30 and A38 taking long dives. A38 surprised everyone when he suddenly appeared alongside the boat, he had traveled a distance from his last dive sighting, near his mother, who was still traveling close to the Cracroft shore. The orcas were obviously searching for food, they were focussed, intent on feeding. A30 and A38 made their way over to the VI shore, all of the orcas remained spread out, intent on foraging along the VI shore. Other sightings today were: Pacific white-sided dolphins, sooty shearwaters, common murres, rhinoceros auklets,, bald eagles, a great blue heron, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

Shortly after leaving the dock in Alder Bay this morning, small groups of Pacific white-sided dolphins were sighted. The first group of 12 or so rode at the bow of the boat briefly, it was a joy to see them swimming just under the water at the bow of the boat, prior to their heading back to feed. While a heavy fog was present for most of the tour, resident orcas, the A30 matriline (9 orcas in total) were sighted. It is always exciting finding orcas in the fog when they have been reported in the area. Blows were heard and then finally black fins appeared looming through the water. It was a great viewing with all of the 9 individual orcas being seen even though they were well spread out and heading west from Blackfish Sound to Donegal Head. Their A-Clan calls were also heard. Stellar sea lions were observed hauled out, as well many were sighted swimming and one individual was seen feeding on a fish. Other sightings today were: sooty shearwaters +, common murres, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, cassin’s auklets, black turnstones, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

Just when we thought it could not get any better it did! Today's viewing has to be one of the best of the entire season. Heading out on tour this morning the fog was beginning to clear in Johnstone Strait and yet our first glimpse of an orca took everyone onboard by surprise including crew when the fin of A33 suddenly rose up through the water and out of the fog near to the boat. With the engine cut, passengers sat and watched as A33 continued on to the west, foraging as he went. The hydrophone was deployed and the wonderful A-Clan calls of the A12 matriline were heard, and beautifully so, and with the fog clearing rapidly, other orcas could then be seen further down Johnstone Strait and slowly making their way towards the west. As it turned out, the orcas passed by very near to the boat, and then turning back and forth as they foraged at Turn Point, some swimming under and alongside of the boat. The viewing was superb and left everyone on board smiling! A humpback whale was sighted across Johnstone Strait at Blinkhorn at the time of our orca encounter. Leaving the area, we headed into Weynton Passage where passengers observed the antics of numerous stellar sea lions 30 + hauled out and many, many more who were in the water swimming and fishing. A humpback whale was sighted near Stubbs Island, it was feeding in the flood current; in total there were 5 humpback whales in the area, some could be seen off in the distance and one was sighted on the way home near the Pearse Islands. It was a purely magical and remarkable tour for all onboard. Other sightings today were: harbour seals, sooty shearwaters +++, common mergansers flying south in small flocks of 20 or less, common murres,, red-necked phalaropes, rhinoceros auklets,, bald eagles, cassin’s auklets,, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

What a way to spend the day! Nearing Weynton Passage on tour this morning we encountered a large group of Pacific white-sided dolphins, some 100 + that were feeding intensely and passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing of them. Continuing on and traveling through the Plumper Islands, numerous hauled out harbour seals were sighted as well a pair of bald eagles who were fishing. Once out in Blackfish Sound we began scanning for blows and it was not long before a humpback whale was sighted. As it turned out there were 5 and possibly 6 humpback whales in the near vicinity, they were well spread out in all directions where a blow or fluke could be seen off in the distance. Passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing of Chunky and her calf and shortly after another adult humpback whale who was observed to have dolphins and stellar sea lions intermingling with it. On our way home, just as the devonshire teas were being served, passengers were treated to a special viewing of a humpback whale that was rolling over and over, waving its pectoral fins about and some 4-6 stellar sea lions were playfully rolling over and around it. It was an incredible and memorable impression for everyone to take home with them as well as some extraordinary photo’s. Other sightings today were: sooty shearwaters +++, common murres,, red-necked phalaropes, rhinoceros auklets,, surf scoters, bald eagles, a great blue heron, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

September 13,2008: Not mentioned in yesterdays update: Soon after leaving the dock in Alder Bay yesterday morning, what looked to be a large deadhead in the water, turned out to be a male northern elephant seal which disappeared from sight while we were still a distance away. This summer there has been frequent sightings of northern elephant seals in this area which is quite unusual; they are found further south on Vancouver Island, near Race Rocks, Metchosin and Sooke but especially off the California Coast.

Today was another beautiful day in which to celebrate our favourite month, a time of year that brings a feeling of change in the air, as well, numerous bird species into the area. We encountered the A30’s and the A36 boys at Blinkhorn on our tour early this morning. They were well spread out foraging, working their way to the west with the ebb current, the A36’s going the furtherest west. At one point the A30’s stopped to rest, as did A37 and A46. A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone, resting calls and then calls where we observed A30 (the matriarch) to begin moving further west and soon the A30 pod had formed a resting line, moving slowly west in the ebb current. Traveling through Weynton Passage, numerous stellar sea lions were sighted hauled out, many more were in the water interacting together playfully and several were in the Queen Charlotte Strait swimming and fishing. Humpback whale blows could be seen in the distance in all directions, there were nine in total in the vicinity of Donegal Head, Queen Charlotte Strait and Blackfish Sound. Passengers enjoyed viewing Chunky and her calf, watching their dive sequence was mesmerizing and wonderful to watch. Other sightings today were: hauled out harbour seals, pacific white-sided dolphins, two harbour porpoise, common murres,, red-necked phalaropes, rhinoceros auklets, canada geese, surf scoters, bald eagles, sooty shearwaters, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

12 SEPTEMBER, 2008

Today was a beautiful day to be out on the water. The A30’s were sighted off the Sophia Islands this morning heading to the west, their blows could be seen a distance away. They were well spread out and began foraging intensely in the heavy flood current at Blakney Passage, at one point they were seen heading to the west along the Hanson Island Shore and as suddenly they turned back and in a traveling line, passed nearby the boat on their way back to forage again in Blackney Passage. A dozen or more Pacific white-sided dolphins were observed intermingling amongst them. The A12’s were also sighted, they traveled quickly to the east down the VI shore, carried along by the flood current. On the way home, six or more pacific white-sided dolphins came racing along from behind the boat and were soon riding at the bow and passengers enjoyed watching them turning back and forth under the surface of the water. Just when it couldn’t get any better, a humpback whale was sighted foraging near the Stephenson Islands. It was a truly remarkable day in viewing so many marine mammals and sea birds. Other sightings today were: Numerous stellar sea lions hauled out and in the water swimming+++ hauled out harbour seals, common murres,, red-necked phalaropes, rhinoceros auklets, canada geese flying south east, surf scoters, bald eagles, fork-tailed storm petrels, sooty shearwaters, harlequind ducks, oyster catchers, california gulls, glaucous-winged and bonaparte’s gulls.

It was a beautiful and blustery day out on the water with sunshine and orcas! The orcas that were sighted were east of the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and they were identified as the A30’s. They were well spread out and also heading east, foraging as they went; several pacific white-sided dolphins were intermingling among them, the orcas were consequently taking long dives. A39 was the first orca we sighted, he was heading to the west foraging steadily at the time of our first excited sighting. A72 (Bend) was also sighted foraging near to A50 (mother) and A84 (sibling), they were foraging very close to the Cracroft Island shoreline; A38 and A30 were also seen, as were A54 and her two calves. Just prior to our leaving the area, A39, traveling back to the east to catch up with his family, passed close to the boat as it sat idle, giving everyone a wonderful photographic opportunity. We traveled back via Weynton Passage, viewing the hauled out stellar sea lions +++. Other sightings today were: harbour seals, common murres,, red-necked phalaropes, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles and california gulls.

The orcas were east in Johnstone Strait at the eastern end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they were the A34’s who were resting while A55 was further to the west foraging, just inside the boundary of the reserve. The rest of the A34’s soon began traveling to the west moving rapidly along in the ebb current, some pacific white-sided dolphins were seen intermingling with them nearby. On the way back, two stellar sea lions were sighted swimming along and close to Alder Bay, a black bear was observed foraging on the beach.

With reports of orcas heading east in Johnstone Strait towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve we headed in that direction briefly, sighting a Black Bear that was foraging on the beach at low tide. When orcas were reported in Blackfish Sound we veered north, passing through the Blowhole into Blackfish Sound where we encountered the A30’s who were traveling west, foraging along the Swanson Island shore. It was wonderful viewing them as they foraged back and forth steadily, heading west off Bold Head and towards Donegal Head; they were well spread out. A Humpback Whale was sighted along the Swanson shore, moving in our direction and passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing moments during numerous dive sequences. It was moving steadily west and was soon lost from sight in the ebb current. The A30’s who were quiet earlier began to vocalize and passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls. It was exciting when A54 and her two calves who had been foraging 200 meters distance away, suddenly turned towards the boat as it sat idle and drifting and swam alongside of and under the boat, much to the delight and wonder of all on board. We cruised home via numerous islands partaking in the beauty and majesty of it all. Other sightings today: stellar sea lions hauled out and swimming++++, harbour seals hauled out++, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles and an eaglet in a nest, red-necked phalaropes, common murres, two great blue herons, 4 fork-tailed storm petrels, a peregrine falcon, glaucous-winged and california gulls.

Despite the mist that persisted for most of our tour, orcas were sighted this morning in Johnstone Strait. We encountered A12 and A33 traveling west towards Cracroft Point, they were foraging a few 100 meters apart. Distant A-Clan calls could be heard via the hydrophone but mist and fog conditions obscured the VI shore making visibility difficult. The A34’s were located on the VI shore near Kaikash Beach, they too were foraging, making their way to the west. With the hydrophone deployed, their A-Clan calls were heard, this time at a closer range and they were wonderful to listen to. Passengers observed when the A34’s suddenly turned and began heading back to the east, A12 and A33 on the Hanson shore had also turned.

It was a beautiful fall day on the water, the assembly of large numbers of common murres having arrived into the area and the sound of their calls across the water was familiar and signified that fall had indeed arrived. The A12’s were sighted at Big Bay early on in the tour this morning and passengers on the SV Tuan enjoyed observing them as they foraged, traveling east along Hanson Island when they turned into Blakney Passage making their way into Blackfish Sound. A humpback whale was also sighted and some wonderful viewings were enjoyed. It was an action packed afternoon for passengers on the motor cruise. A humpback whale fluke was seen disappearing out of sight out in the Queen Charlotte Strait at the same time that numerous stellar sea lions were swimming close by, exuberant and splashing about. While scanning for the humpback whale, waiting for it to surface again, it was surprising to suddenly see orcas, the A12’s who were also near by in the Queen Charlotte Strait. A33 was well out in the Strait heading west when A12 turned towards Weynton Passage; the A34’s following. A33 circled around and was soon parallel to his mother and entering into Johnstone Strait on the flood current with the A34’s following. A12 and A33 commenced foraging on the VI shore while the A34’s rested, moving slowly down the Hanson Island side of the Strait. The viewing of the humpback whale was superb, meanwhile, stellar sea lions were everywhere it seemed! It was extremely interesting to observe them swimming and feeding in the water and also hauled out. Other sightings today: Humpback whales, harbour seals hauled out, common murres+++, fork-tailed storm petrels, red-necked phalaropes, red-necked grebes, cassin’s auklets, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, and california gulls.

It was a beautiful viewing of the A12’s that we were privileged to observe while out on tour today. When we first encountered the orcas they were foraging steadily, west towards Blinkhorn on the VI shore, A12 and A33 were in the lead. The A34’s followed, they too were foraging, A55 was in the lead and it was such a treat viewing this family group at the time that we did. They passed on by and while we were drifting in the current with the engine off listening to their wonderful A-Clan calls, the family suddenly turned and approached nearby. It was a very relaxed and special viewing with multiple spyhopping, resting on the surface, pectoral slapping and playful interactions between all members. Their calls still being heard via the hydrophone, passengers observed as they grouped together forming a resting line and then began to move very slowly towards Weynton Passage, changing direction to drift with the ebb current through one of the passages of the Plumper Islands (Lulu Island Passage). Stellar sea lions were everywhere in the water swimming and playing and amongst the chaos of them all, the A34’s were seen passing gracefully through the same narrow waterway (of which dozens of Stellar Sea Lions were also navigating their way through) and eventually into the Queen Charlotte Strait. Scotch mist persisted and hung for awhile like a curtain of rain obscuring much of the Plumper Islands and the Coast Mountains could not be seen. And yet it was beautiful, the gentle magic of the rain forest unfolded, passengers listened to the calls of birds on the islands and watched the antics of the stellar sea lions, 35+ hauled out and at least double this number swimming in every direction, many in playful interaction with each other. Other sightings today: harbour seals hauled out, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, red-necked phalaropes, black turnstones, a great blue heron and california gulls.

This morning orcas were sighted out in front of Alert Bay, just ahead of passengers arriving to board and so it was with much excitement that the tour got underway. It turned out to be the same seven Transient orcas (mammal feeders, mostly marine) who were in the area two days ago, on August 30; the T34’s, T37’s and T72. When SV met up with the orcas they had just finished feeding and were resting and passengers were able to view these transient orcas in their relaxed state. Resting is rarely seen in transients , representing less than 3 % of their overall activity, as compared to 10-15% for residents. Passengers observed that the resting transients were uninterested in two Harbour Porpoises swimming nearby. After a time, the orcas began to travel to the west, passing west of Pultney Point on Malcolm Island. Other sightings today: Stellar Sea Lions swimming, a common Loon, a mink, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, red-necked phalaropes and california gulls.

Today was an exceptional day for viewing a variety of marine life. We began our tour with the sighting of a black bear on the beach, this was followed soon after by the sighting of a female northern elephant seal. It is always considered a rare sighting in this area to see one and very exciting for everyone on board to see. The A30’s were foraging west of Blinkhorn on the VI shore, they were well spread out and close to the shore, their foraging was intense and it was wonderful listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone as they foraged. Passing through Weynton Passage en route to viewing two humpback whales, over 116 stellar sea lions were counted hauled out and there were more in the water swimming; it is the most countered so far this season. The viewing of them hauled out is always interesting and never ceases to amaze. The two humpback whales were sighted in the distance in the Queen Charlotte Strait, they were breathtaking to watch. Swimming side by side their surfacing and diving was almost simultaneous, an amazing sight to see. The sunlight was welcome and warm on our backs as we headed for home, what more could we ask for! Other sightings today: harbour seals hauled out, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, surf scoters, red-necked phalaropes, a peregrine falcon and california gulls.

When leaving the dock this afternoon the sun was shinning and continued to do so throughout the tour. We first sighted the A12’s off Weynton Passage as they crossed over to the VI shore in the heavy flood current. A55 was foraging steadily in the current off on his own while A34 and the rest of her offspring were foraging and at times could be seen resting, near to the VI shore; their beautiful A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. They soon began to travel east, crossing over to Cracroft Point and passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing as they foraged nearby the boat in the flood current at Blakney Passage. On our way home, when heading back to the west, 7 Transient orcas were also sighted traveling east down the VI shore. They had been identified as the T34’s, T37’s and T72. The sightings of Transient orcas this summer has been few and so it was an afternoon made even more interesting by their appearance in Johnstone Strait.

Today proved to be a day of wonderful viewing despite the heavy rain! On the morning tour passengers had the experience of sailing with the whales: the A8’s, A23’s and the A30’s and while under sail, by trailing the hydrophone, passengers were able to listen to their wonderful A-Clan vocals as they foraged. On the afternoon sail time was spent with the I12’s, they were also foraging and I47 surprised everyone when surfacing near to the boat, allowing a wonderful and unforgettable sight! The humpback whales were once again back in the area and passengers enjoyed the viewings of KC and another Y Humpback Whale who is new to the area. Two other humpback whales including Houdini, were also sighted in the distance. It was a day of varied weather conditions that also brought with it, some exciting marine sightings. Other sightings today: The rare sighting of 8-10 Arctic Terns, stellar sea lions 75 ++ hauled out and swimming, harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, surf scoters, white-winged scoters, juvenile pigeon guillemots, red-necked phalaropes, cassin’s auklets and california gulls.

Heading out on tour this afternoon passengers were thrilled to see orcas early on in the tour, they were foraging in the flood current near Turn Point in Johnstone Strait and across to the Vancouver Island shore, well spread out. The three A36 boys had been foraging at Blinkhorn for quite some time ahead of our arrival while the A12’s traveled to the west, foraging along the Hanson Island shore. As they made their way closer to Weynton Passage the A12’s worked their way into the heavy current providing some wonderful viewing. They were observed foraging, resting, spyhopping and pectoral and tail slapping was also seen. The view-scape was remarkable, the backdrop lighting was a silver grey-blue that shone ahead of the coming rain. Meanwhile, the upwellings and whirlpools were amazing to watch with seabirds, orcas, dall’s porpoises and bull kelp all being swept along. It was breathtaking observing natures elements at play! We stayed with the A12’s and watched as they made their way slowly into Weynton Passage traveling at just 2 knots against the flood current, the viewing was superb. Some 80 + stellar sea lions were also seen hauled out in our passing through Weynton Passage and added to the wonderful sights and sounds of the marine world. Other sightings today: Numerous other stellar sea lions swimming, harbour seals, dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles, california and glaucous-winged gulls, 34 canada geese and black turnstones.

Passengers onboard the SV Tuan this morning spent much of their viewing time with a Humpback Whale in Blackfish Sound. It was the first sighting of a humpback whale in the area for quite some time and the viewing was extraordinary, especially when six or more Stellar Sea Lions arrived to seemingly play with the whale by rolling all over and around it. The humpback whale was believed to be “Twister” and was indeed observed to be twisting, rolling about, waving its pectoral fins and spyhopping which was a treat to see. A series of some 20 trumpeting calls were also heard during the encounter with the sea lions that ended abruptly when they swam off. It was wonderful observing the interaction between the two species and could be described as a “once in a lifetime viewing and priceless”. Our local waterways offer an abundance of marine life that is ever changing and always amazing, just as it was today! Other sightings today: Numerous other Stellar Sea Lions hauled out and swimming, Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes +++ Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, California and Glaucous-winged Gulls.

Today proved to be another glorious day of viewing marine life in the waterways of Johnstone Strait and Queen Charlotte Strait. The weather was moody with lovely lighting in the morning changing to a sombre grey in the afternoon with rain followed by sunshine with a silver sheen that stretched far into the distance and beyond. The orcas reported in the area today were the A12’s, A23’s, A25’s, A8’s and A24’s. On the morning tour the orcas were in a long resting line, traveling slowly to the east, it was wonderful to watch their synchronized surfacing to expire and inhale. The A12’s, A25’s and A23’s were the pods closest to the boat and were enjoyed by all. The pods were again seen on our afternoon tours, this time they were traveling to the west along the Hanson Island shoreline, the viewing was superb from both vessels and A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. The orcas made their turn back to the east, crossing towards the Vancouver Island shore. Their activity today included: resting, traveling, foraging, breeching and pectoral and tail slapping. On the way home, passengers on MV Cetacea enjoyed viewing the A30’s as they made their way east towards Donegal Head on Malcolm Island. Other sightings today: Stellar Sea Lions 75 ++ (hauled out and swimming), Harbour Seals, Bow riding Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes +++ (and small flocks of them flying south), White-winged Scoters, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in a nest, Belted Kingfishers, a Great Blue Heron, Black Oyster Catchers, California and Glaucous -winged Gulls.

Today was one of those magical days on the water that leaves one speechless with wonder. Rain greeted passengers when they boarded the boats this morning and yet within moments everything changed; the sun began to shine and suddenly a rainbow arched across Cormorant Island behind the boats as we headed to the east. Looking east down Johnstone Strait the lighting was beautiful and there was a feeling of excitement and joy among passengers and crew. The orcas were traveling to the west from the Boat Bay Light, most of them were on the Cracroft Island shore, well spread out and stopping to forage along the way, the A12’s, A8’s, A24’s, A23’s and A25’s. A-Clan vocalizations were heard by passengers on both vessels, passengers on the SV Tuan enjoyed hearing some vocals from the A25’s above the water at one point without the hydrophone being deployed. Some quality viewing was observed of the A25’s. The behaviour today observed of the orcas was varied with tail slapping, pectoral slaps, breeching and half breeches, spyhopping as well some intense foraging, lunge diving and momentary resting. Touring back through the island waterways the scenic viewing was wonderful and two more wonderful arching rainbows were seen. The Stellar Sea Lions have arrived in mass with many new arrivals in the last few days. Large flocks of Red-necked Phalaropes (juveniles and males) have also arrived from the arctic tundra and were sighted today feeding in protected bays and among kelp forests. Other sightings today: Stellar Sea Lions hauled out 75 ++, Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes ++, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in the nest, Belted Kingfishers and California Gulls.

Passengers enjoyed some wonderful sightings of resident orcas in Johnstone Strait this morning aboard SV Tuan. There were several pods spread out across the strait traveling to the west, foraging along the way: the A30’s, A23’s, A8’s and A25’s. Quality time was spent with the A30’s and the A23’s as they foraged back and forth, their A-Clan calls were clearly audible both above and below the waterline. Hearing their vocals above the water added to the magic of the viewing and delighted everyone on board. When the orcas turned and headed back to the east towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve some social behaviour was observed and included spyhopping, tail slapping and pectoral slapping which was intriguing to watch. Other sightings today were: Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, California Gulls and Glaucous-winged Gulls.

Today was one of those lovely days that we dream about and love on the North Island; clear blue skies, calm waters, sunshine and warmth! There were many orcas to be seen in Johnstone Strait this morning, several pods were in transit, the A12’s, A30’s, A8’s and A24’s. Passengers on the morning tour enjoyed some wonderful encounters with the A12’s who headed into Blakney passage and were steadily foraging off Cracroft Point and near to the boat at times as it sat idle and drifting, their sleek bodies were seen as they swam underwater along side the boat, delighting and surprising everyone when they did so. Their A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone. On the afternoon tour, the A12’s were again sighted, this time out in the Queen Charlotte Strait, they were foraging and moving somewhat slowly to the west but not in any rush. Pacific White-sided Dolphins were also in the area feeding, passing at times very near to the boat enabling everyone on board to enjoy their enthusiastic energy. Other sightings today were: Several Stellar Sea Lions swimming and also hauled out 23++, Harbor Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Turnstones, Bald Eagles, White-winged Scoters, Black Oyster Catchers, A Peregrine Falcon, California Gulls and Glaucous-winged Gulls.

With far less wind blowing than yesterday it was a very interesting day of viewing the northern resident orcas. It was out in the Queen Charlotte Strait that we caught up with a small group of orcas, they were identified as the I35’s, a subpod of the I31 Matriline. Most of our viewing time was spent with I67 who was foraging intensely and lunge diving. Some G-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone when we first caught up with the pod. They were headed west and we left them at Lizard Point. On the afternoon tour, it was surprising to find the A30’s foraging at Beaver Cove shortly after departing from Alder Bay. Even though rain was falling gently, the sightings of the 9 orcas and the sounds of their A-Clan vocalizations as they foraged were superb! Passengers enjoyed some wonderful viewing, especially of A38 and A30 as they passed nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting; foraging and traveling behaviour was observed when the pod made their turn back to the east and we left them at Blinkhorn. Other sightings today were: Several Stellar Sea Lions swimming and interacting together in playfulness, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Turnstones, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in its nest, California Gulls and three flocks of unidentified ducks flying SE were also seen.

Heading out on tour this afternoon heavy SE winds were already in force with choppy waters and winds gusts; the sea state made worse by the flood current against the SE winds. The A36’s were headed to the east in Blackfish Sound, they were traveling grouped together the three brothers: A32 (44 years old) A37 (31 years old) and A46 (26 years old). This subpod will eventually die out because their mother, the matriarch A36 died in 1998 and there are no surviving female offspring. It is always a special treat to see these brothers. Other sightings today were: Stellar Sea Lions, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in a nest, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls were also seen.

It was another beautiful day of viewing resident orcas in the waters of Johnstone Strait. The pods that were sighted today were the A8’s, A23’s, A25’s, A24’s and the A12’s. They were again well spread out across Johnstone Strait. Traveling, foraging, tail slapping, breaching and spy-hopping socializing behaviour was observed. Passengers on both vessels enjoyed wonderful encounters with some surprise viewings near to the boats as they sat idle and drifting. A-Clan vocals and ecolocation could be heard via the hydrophone and were wonderful to listen to. Other sightings today: A very rare sighting of a Northern Elephant Seal sighted by crew and passengers on the SV Tuan en route to viewing orcas. When an elephant seal dives for food, it can remain submerged for 80 minutes and reach depths of up to 5000 ft(1500 m). Dall’s Porpoises bow riding briefly, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in a nest, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls+++ were also seen.

The orcas were reported as being to the far east in Johnstone Strait in the early morning, they were resting near Port Neville and began traveling to the west at a rapid and steady pace. It was on the afternoon tour that we encountered them just west of the Boat Bay Light on the Cracroft Island shore, the A8’s and the A24’s, other pods were further behind in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, foraging and heading west as well. Some wonderful viewing was observed and A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. It was a spectacular and beautiful afternoon to be out on the water. Other sightings today were: Stellar Sea Lions, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in a nest, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

The fog was again present when the SV Tuan headed out on tour this morning. Johnstone Strait cleared quickly and then around noon, fog drifted out of Weynton Passage, drifting as far west as Alert Bay and clearing again as we left on our afternoon tour. A beautiful day and wonderful encounters with orca sightings early in the morning and again on the afternoon tour. The orcas were all spread out across the Strait on both sides on both tours, their blows could be seen in all directions. Passengers observed some intensive foraging, spy-hopping, breaching, traveling and resting behaviour. The pods seen today nearby were: The A8’s, A24’s and the G17’s. Other sightings were: Dall’s Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets , Pigeon Guillemots, Red-necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in a nest, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

The morning fog began clearing ahead of SV Tuan as it headed out on tour and beautiful photographic images were made possible. The orcas were resting in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, all of the A5’s and the A24’s, as well the A12’s, but further east when the SV Tuan arrived and passengers were content to watch from the reserve boundary. It was wonderful and very surprising to see the A5’s and the A24’s suddenly make their move towards the boat as it sat idle and travel out of the reserve, heading back to the west. The viewing was superb! On the afternoon tour, passengers on board MV Cetacea enjoyed watching the interaction between numerous Pacific White-sided Dolphins and orcas. The orcas were taking long dives traveling and some foraging behavior was also observed. Other sightings were: Bow riding Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbor Seals, one Coastal Black-tailed Deer, Rhinoceros Auklets +++ Pigeon Guillemots, Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Bald Eagles+++ and two Eaglets in their nests, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

Today was like a repeat of yesterday with so many orca sightings, it was such a wonderful day for those on board. The pods were all spread out across Johnstone Strait and the sights, and the sounds of the A-Clan calls were phenomenal! The pods that were present today were: The A30’s, A8’s, A24’s, A23’s and A11’s. Other sightings were: Dall’s Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets +++ Pigeon Guillemots, Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Bald Eagles, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

Today has to be one of the best days of the season with many pods of orcas being present in Johnstone Strait. The fog lasted long into the day making the finding of orcas difficult in the morning, and while their blows could be heard it was not always possible to see an orca but breaking out of the fog into Johnstone Strait near Weynton Island, the orcas were clearly visible and beautiful to see. On the afternoon tours, the viewing was wonderful. Orcas could be seen stretching well across the Strait, some were foraging, many of them were observed to be in resting lines. Pacific White-sided Dolphins joined MV Cetacea , riding at the bow early in the tour and could be seen frequently by passengers on both vessels, they were also seen interacting with the orcas who were taking long dives. Because the pods were so spread out it was not possible to see them all. Time was spent viewing the A30’s and A24’s and on the way home, up in Weynton Passage, the A11’s were sighted. The lighting was glorious with the sun shining on them as they lay resting on the surface of the water, as well, there were multiple spy-hops observed which delighted everyone on board. Other sightings today were: Dall’s Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets +++ Pigeon Guillemots, Common Murres, Black Oyster Catchers, Black Turnstones, Bald Eagles, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

Today was a truly amazing day to be on the water. Overcast conditions and rain was forecast but as we headed out on our tours this morning, the day cleared and our viewing began in earnest. A humpback whale was sighted en route to viewing orcas off Malcolm Point early in the day by passengers aboard the MV Cetacea, This humpback whale was new to the area, having not been seen before. The A36’s were sighted at the top end of Malcolm Island, they were foraging and then turned east with other incoming pods who were also sighted close-by, the A30’s and the A12’s. All pods were moving steadily eastbound and were also seen by passengers aboard the SV Tuan. Spy-hopping, tail slapping and breaching was observed. On the afternoon tour, passengers aboard the SV Tuan were delighted to view the same incoming pods as they headed east from Lizard Point, foraging and resting behavior was observed, some resting calls were heard via the hydrophone. Other sightings today were: Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets +++ Pigeon Guillemots, a Common Murre, Bald Eagles and California Gulls.

On the afternoon tour passengers on board M.V. Cetacea encountered the orcas the A24’s, A8’s and A25’s heading back to the west, foraging as they went along the Hanson Island shore. An orca was seen with a salmon in its mouth, spy-hopping was also observed but mostly the behavior noted was foraging. The A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to via the hydrophone. Passengers on board SV Tuan enjoyed the presence of a group of 16 or more Dall’s Porpoises riding at the bow of the boat for quite some time, there were also sightings of Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in the nest, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

It was a beautiful day on the water and the orca sightings wonderful. It began with the initial sighting of A46 (youngest of the three brothers of the A36 pod) he was foraging ahead of his brothers and close to the VI shore while A32 and A37 were foraging centre strait. The other orcas, the A8’s, A23’s and A24’s were further behind; most of the A24’s were on the Hanson Island shore. It was lovely listening to the A-Clan vocalizations via the hydrophone. On the afternoon tour, the A36’s were again sighted. The other pods had made their way back to the east and into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A36’s meanwhile continued to forage intensively at Cracroft Point, working their way towards the west in the ebb current. Their A-Clan vocals were superb to listen to and it was wonderful to view these three majestic brothers, alive and seemingly well in Johnstone Strait once again. Other sightings today: Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Oyster Catchers, Black Turnstones, Bald Eagles, Glaucous-winged and California Gulls.

The orcas seen on todays tour were the A24’s, A23’s and A8’s. They were foraging and resting, heading west along the Hanson Island shore before turning back to the east. Passengers were very excited, enjoying the viewing and listening to the A-Clan vocals which were wonderful to hear via the hydrophone. Several Dall’s Porpoises were seen with their Calves, as well the sighting of a Humpback Whale that was feeding in Weynton Passage. Other sightings today: Harbour Seals, one Coastal Black-tailed Deer, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, a Common Murre, a Solitary Sand Piper, a Canada Goose, Bald Eagles and California Gulls.

What a beautiful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait! Fog again obscured the waterways when SV Tuan headed out on tour this morning, but the clearing was rapid with big spaces opening up ahead of us as we cruised along. Orcas were reported east bound in the fog bank on the VI shore, passing into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and hidden in the fog. Crossing Blakney Passage and nearing Cracroft Point on the other shore, a curtain of fog lifted revealing a very large dorsal fin and other smaller fins in the distance. What a surprise for the excited guests on board catching their first glimpse of orcas! A38 was foraging suddenly nearby, followed by A39, both of them proceeding a little further west foraging. The rest of the A30’s who had been foraging formed a resting line and began making their way very slowly, crossing the strait towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. A39 who had made his way more centre strait turned, as did A38 and both began moving east in the direction of their family. The orca sightings were superb, as was the natural beauty and lighting surrounding them. Other sightings today: harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets,, pigeon guillemots, bald eagles, surf scoters and california gulls.

It was a day of breathtaking beauty, one of dramatic change where the dense fog of the morning evaporated into a day and afternoon of glorious sunshine. The pods seen today were the same as yesterday, all of the A5’s and the A30’s. It is reassuring to see that their travel to the far east (traveling great distances) in search of food has changed in recent days and they are spending more time in the western part of Johnstone Strait, foraging in the area from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve up to Turn Point or further west to the Stephenson Islands and Beaver Cove, then turning back to the east. On our tours today they were observed to be foraging most of the time, in their family groups, well spread out across the strait. Some half breaches, resting, a spyhop and some playful interaction between siblings were also observed. Other sightings today: harbour seals, dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets,, bald eagles and an eaglet in the nest, california gulls+++, belted kingfishers, a great blue heron and black oyster catchers.

The morning tour on SV Tuan began with a heavy fog and almost zero visibility but what a sight when tree tops began appearing out of nowhere along the shoreline. When the curtain of fog had finally cleared in Johnstone Strait, the orcas were sighted and beautifully so! It was the same group as yesterday, the A5’s and the A8’s. They were all spread out and foraging, some along the Hanson Island shore and others crossing over to the VI shore. With the engine off and the boat drifting in the current, A-Clan vocals could be clearly heard via the hydrophone. On the afternoon tour, after a brief encounter of bow-riding Pacific White-sided Dolphins, MV Cetacea met up with the A25’s who were traveling back to the east, foraging steadily along the VI shore, the other pods were further east and in the Robson Bight Reserve. After listening to their A-Clan calls, we left the area and headed up into Blackfish Sound where the A30’s were sighted heading in from Bold Head. It was exciting viewing. A39 was sighted followed by the A54’s and a single Pacific White-sided Dolphin who was swimming with them. The A50’s foraged near to the boat delighting passengers; the two calves played on the surface for a time and it was interesting to hear a single call on the hydrophone and watch as the two calves raced after their mother. A 38 was also seen at a distance where the small nick near the top of his dorsal fin could be seen by binoculars. Other sightings today: harbour seals, dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, white-winged and surf scoters, bald eagles and california gulls+++.

This morning the orcas were sighted at Cracroft Point, they were in resting lines, the rhythmic pattern of their surfacing in unison to exhale and inhale was beautiful to watch and mesmerizing as were the sounds they made in the stillness of the morning; the A5 pods and the A24’s. On the afternoon tour, the orcas were moving west from Cracroft Point along the Hanson Island shore. Light winds were blowing and both the main sail and the stay sail were hoisted enabling passengers the experience of sailing quietly with the orcas while trailing the hydrophone while listening to their A-Clan calls. Some of the pods carried on west towards the Stephenson Islands (the A25’s and A8’s) while the A23’s and A24’s crossed over to the VI shore, all of them foraging. It was up in Beaver Cove that all of the pods foraged intensively before they turned back to the east. The lighting was beautiful and the sightings superb! California Gulls were again spread across much of Weynton Passage, a spectacular sight and sound as they fed contently in the flood current.

Heading out on tour this afternoon it was reassuring to know that orcas were again plying the waters of Johnstone Strait. The three pods, the A24’s, A8’s and A23’s who had foraged at the top end of Johnstone Strait in the morning had made their way back to the east and into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. As happened yesterday afternoon, we again encountered orcas at the Boat Bay light after they had left the Reserve, heading back to the west. The A8’s were nearest to the boat, they were foraging as they traveled along. A-Clan vocals could be heard via the hydrophone and passengers again enjoyed some wonderful viewing. On the way home, bow-riding Dall’s Porpoises traveled along for some 30 minutes delighting everyone on board. At Weynton Passage, the lighting was superb, the water was white with Gulls, mostly California Gulls who were resting in the back eddy of the flood current.

It was a perfect day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait! Soon after leaving the dock and well ahead of serving our morning tea of fresh baked muffins, we were sailing with the A12’s who were spread out and foraging at the top end of Johnstone Strait and also into Beaver Cove. With the main sail up and a very light breeze blowing, we were able to sail quietly along trailing our hydrophone from which the A-Clan calls could be clearly heard. The viewing was superb, it was a glorious day, quiet out on the water and the calls were beautiful to listen to. Tail slapping, foraging and two breaches were observed (A55). When A12 and A33 made their way over to the Stephenson Islands, the A34’s followed and they all passed through Weynton Passage. At the same time, a humpback whale was sighted in Weynton Passage traveling into Johnstone Strait, taking long dives. It was at Weynton Island that it traveled close into shore, along the shoreline of Hanson Island where passengers enjoyed some very good viewing. On the afternoon tour, the A12’s were sighted at the Boat Bay Light. They had traveled back into Johnstone Strait via Blackfish Sound, and were swept through Blakney Passage on the flood current, traveling then into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. We encountered them at the light, after they had left the Reserve, heading back to the west, foraging as they went and passengers again enjoyed some wonderful viewing. Pacific White-sided Dolphins were seen at a distance and on the way home, bow-riding Dall’s Porpoises thrilled and delighted everyone on board. Other sightings were: harbor seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, California Gulls, Harlequin Ducks, Bald Eagles and Surf Scoters.

When the SV Tuan headed out on tour this afternoon there were reports of orcas heading east at the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve (A30’s, A23’s, A8’s) and orcas heading west, west of Lizard Point (A12’s). We began by heading west but when a report came in that some of the pods had turned back to the west at the east end of the reserve, we headed in that direction. The heavy flood current had us make our way swiftly down Blackfish Sound and we were soon in Johnstone Strait where blows and the dorsal fins of the orcas could be seen heading in our direction. A large dorsal fin was sighted nearby, identified as A38 (oldest surviving son of A30 from the A30 pod). He was separate from his family who were much further east in Johnstone Strait, he was observed foraging intensely, moving back and forth. The A8’s were also foraging steadily along the Cracroft shore, turning back at times to forage then moving west against the flood current, taking long dives. One lucky passenger managed to snap a wonderful photo when one of the orcas spy-hopped, delighting everyone. A few dall’s porpoises were observed to be traveling with the A8’s as they crossed Blakney Passage in the heavy flood current. The day was glorious and the lighting magical when we left the orcas, heading for home. Other sightings were: Several stellar sea lions swimming, dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, California Gulls, Bald Eagles and Surf Scoters.

What a special viewing! It was a wonderful day for passengers onboard the SV Tuan. Heading east in Johnstone Strait this morning orca blows could be seen on the VI shoreline heading our way; other blows were also sighted at the bottom end of Hanson Island. As we neared the approaching orcas on the VI shore, the engine was cut and the hydrophone deployed. Several small groups were observed foraging close to the shore but in the shaded waters it was not easy to identify them. The A30’s were present and some other pods, possibly G-Clan pod(s), G-Clan calls were heard, as well as A-Clan calls. The A30’s were superb! Foraging further out from the shore they were clearly visible and passengers had some memorable moments when they turned to travel back to the east passing nearby. A few more delightful moments were spent watching A73 (Bend) stopping near-by to nudge up to and against a log as though in play. The orcas were seen to be foraging intensively, and passengers watched as A30 foraged back and forth, A38 also foraged nearby with his mother. Heading into Weyton Passage, Dalls Porpoises joined us at the bow, bow-riding. Watching them dart back and forth below the water line and above is always a treat. Other sightings throughout the day were: Three hauled out stellar sea lions and several others in the water, harbor seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Turnstones, California Gulls, Bald Eagles and an eaglet in the nest. As the mist cleared from Weynton Passage, on the way home, a sparkling sea-scape was revealed in the warming and most welcome sunshine.

Today has to be one of the most exciting days of the season. While the orcas were away in the far eastern section of Johnstone Strait and also to the far north, the humpback whale and other smaller cetacean sightings were quite wonderful. Passengers on S.V. Tuan this morning enjoyed viewing a humpback whale as it foraged back and forth in the area of Weynton Passage. It was quiet on the water and the sounds of the blows could be heard a distance away. It is possible that two humpback whales were seen on this tour. Of great interest was the sighting of a dall’s porpoise and her calf. Another humpback whale was sighted off Yellow Bluff in Alert Bay this morning enabling residents and visitors to the island to see it from shore. On the afternoon motor cruise, with a heavy flood current, life was well and truly in motion in Weynton Passage. A humpback whale was sighted early in the tour and as the water eddies swirled around, numerous pacific white-sided dolphins could be seen feeding. As the boat traveled along, bow-riding dolphins were everywhere, they were astonishing to watch. Another humpback whale was sighted, a stellar sea lion was observed eating a fish, the dolphins were again riding at the bow and among them were two dall’s porpoises. Watching the two humpback whales, their blows a distant apart with their arching bodies taking deep dives, it is possible a third one might also have been present. And while it rained for most of the tour, with rain drops falling like diamonds into the ocean and the backdrop of Vancouver Island, re-appearing through the curtain of rising mist; the elements of nature seemed even more vibrant and beautiful than ever. Other sightings throughout the day were: Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes, California Gulls and Bald Eagles.

Shortly after leaving Alder Bay this morning, passengers on both tours were delighted to see
the blows of orcas ahead of them in Johnstone Strait. The orcas were identified as being the A12’s who had traveled the distance back from Chatam Point where they had been sighted around 6.00 p.m. last evening. Initially, A55 was observed to be foraging nearby but soon rejoined his family as they traveled back towards the east, forming a slow moving resting line. Seeing all of the A12’s together, it was a wonderful sight. Cruising home via Blackfish Sound, passengers aboard M.V. Cetacea observed a Stellar Sea Lion fishing, they also experienced the fun of bow-riding Dall’s Porpoises. Meanwhile, passengers onboard the S.V. Tuan in Weynton Passage were fortunate to see a Minke Whale feeding in the heavy flood current, they also enjoyed bow-riding Dalls Porpoises. All passengers enjoyed viewing a Humpback Whale who was also feeding in the flood current in Weynton Passage. On the afternoon tour, the A12’s were inside the Ecological Reserve and were viewed from the boundary initially when A12 and A33 began to move outside of the boundary and passengers onboard M.V. Cetacea enjoyed watching as A33 foraged back and forth. Other sightings today: Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Black Oyster Catches, Black Turnstones, Marbled Murrelets, California Gulls and Bald Eagles.

It was again a very interesting day for observing Cetaceans. The S.V. Tuan headed out this morning on an 8 hour tour and had a busy day of viewings. When the boat met up with the orcas, passengers could see them well spread out across the Queen Charlotte Strait, headed in a NW direction, some moving towards Malcolm Point, others north, towards the Mainland. The pods included the A24’s, A8’s, A23’s, A30’s and the A11’s. Other pods could also have been present but because of the range between the traveling pods it was difficult to tell. It was quite remarkable to see them so spread out and so far across the Strait; they were foraging steadily as they went. Passengers enjoyed listening to their wonderful A & G-Clan vocals via the hydrophone. Because it was very still and quiet on the water, the vocals were incredible! The orcas continued to travel further to the NW and northern Mainland parts of the Queen Charlotte Strait. Also sighted were bow-riding Pacific White-sided Dolphins, two Wandering Tattlers and one Heermann’s Gull. On the afternoon Motor Cruise passengers enjoyed the viewings of “Twister” the Humpback Whale, A Minke Whale, Dall’s Porpoises and their calves, Harbor Seals, four Black-tailed Deer including a mother and her fawn, Bald Eagles and their nests, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Turnstones, Black Oyster Catchers, Red-necked Phalaropes, Rhinoceros Auklets and numerous California Gulls.

It was a blustery day on the water, but the gales turned out to be not as fierce as was predicted during both of our tours today. Passengers on the 8 hour tour today on S.V. Tuan had some very good sightings of the two leading groups that entered into Blackfish Sound through Blackney Passage, the A36’s and the A12’s. The I15’s and the I31’s were further back, to the east in Johnstone Strait. Passengers on the Motor Vessel Cetacea also had similar good viewings of the A36 brothers and the A12’s. It was good to see the A34’s and then A12 and A33 appear in the choppy waters of Blackney Passage. The orcas were observed traveling, foraging, resting and a spy-hop was also seen. The dives were long at times in Blackney Passage and small groups of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were seen interacting with the orcas. A Humpback Whale was sighted by both vessels in Weynton Passage on the way home, it was identified as “Twister” who seldom flukes but passengers were fortunate to see it fluke. Other sightings today were: Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, California Gulls and a Peregrine Falcon.

It turned out to be a very interesting tour. Soon after leaving the dock in Alder Bay this afternoon passengers were fortunate to see the blows of a Humpback Whale in the distance and as they watched, it was evident that the whale was heading to the west, passing nearby. When it fluked, it was identified as being BCY0057, the 8 year old calf of Houdini, born in 2000. It was good to see this whale again in Johnstone Strait, the identifying white patch on its fluke was clearly visible. When we met up with the orcas, they were well spread out across Johnstone Strait, heading to the west. They were traveling at a steady pace, taking long dives. The I31’s were on the VI shore, the A36’s were favoring the Cracroft shore, as were the I15’s with I43 being well in the lead. With the main sail up and the hydrophone trailing, it was a special experience to sail quietly with them, listening to the G-Clan calls. Some foraging behaviour was observed at times. Pacific White-sided Dolphins were playful, interacting with the orcas
and Dall’s Porpoises were also seen. Other species observed: Surf Scoters, Rhinoceros Auklets, Marbled Murrelets, California Gulls, a Merlin.

Soon after departing from the dock at Alder Bay this morning, there was a report of a pod of Orcas heading east from Donegal Head on Malcolm Island. The incoming pod of orcas turned out to be the A30’s, it was their second visit for the summer; they had last been sighted in Johnstone Strait on June 24th. They quickly passed through Weynton Passage and continued traveling to the east at a fairly rapid pace, pushed along by the flood tide. They were spread out across the Strait, foraging as they went. A30 and A38 favoured the Hanson Island side of the Srait while A39 and his sisters, A50 and A54, and their offspring, favored the Vancouver Island shoreline. A30 and A38 began crossing over to the V.I. shore and it was apparent that they were all heading towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. It was wonderful to sit quietly and listen to their clearly audible A-Clan calls via the hydrophone. On the way home, hauled out Harbour Seals+++ were viewed and numerous bird species that included: Pigeon Guillemots, Rhinoceros Auklets, Harlequin Ducks, Glaucous -winged and California Gulls, Black Turnstones and an Ancient Murrelet.

On our tours yesterday two Humpback Whales were sighted, “Twister” in the morning on S.V. Tuan and “Frosty” in the afternoon on M.V. Cetacea. It was a beautiful day for viewing and enjoying the scenic beauty. Other species that were also seen on the combined tours were: Stellar Sea Lions, hauled out Harbor Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in the nest, Black Oyster Catchers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Harlequin Ducks, Black Turnstones, California Gulls +++ and a Wimbrel.

It was another beautiful day to be out on the water viewing the myriad of sea life that abound in these waters. Even before leaving the dock in Alert Bay this afternoon, two swarms of krill were visible on which Rock Cod were feeding. It made very interesting viewing and gave a deeper perspective and understanding to all who stood by watching, regarding the ocean and its dynamic food chain. While on tour, “Twister” the Humpback whale was sighted and some very good viewing was enjoyed, especially when it surfaced at one point near to the boat as it sat idle. It was a surprise viewing that gave everyone a chance to clearly see its dive sequence in motion and to listen keenly to a deep expiration and the inhalation that followed. Also sighted while on tour: Three Stellar Sea Lions hauled out, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles ++. The viewing of a large school of herring again drew attention to the dynamics of the food chain in the ocean.

It was a very exciting day for both the morning and the afternoon tours with incoming new pods of orcas! When the orcas were first sighted this morning, they were spread out across Queen Charlotte Strait heading towards Blackfish Sound and Johnstone Strait. Passengers on the SV Tuan enjoyed a wonderful sail under canvas, moving quietly with them. The orcas this morning were identified as being the C10’s and C6’s. It was wonderful listening to their vocals via the hydrophone. A Humpback Whale was also sighted and enjoyed on this tour. On the afternoon tour the orcas from the morning had carried on east into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, traveling even further to the east. Orcas were meanwhile reported heading east from Malcolm Island and it was at Weynton Passage that passengers on the MV Cetacea were able to view the new arrivals. They were moving rapidly to the east, and were identified as possibly being the A11’s returning. Other sightings today were: Stellar Sea Lions, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles++

The orcas today were seen from the boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.
At the time of viewing the east-bound orcas (A12’s) had passed into the Reserve, meeting up with the pods (A5’s) that were returning from the east. The orcas were grouped in a resting social line where multiple spyhops were seen+++. Even at a distance of some 400 meters the viewing was good as the orcas were towards the centre of the reserve and out from the rubbing beaches and shoreline where the viewing is further away (1000 meters). Passengers also enjoyed the viewing and interaction of two small groups of Pacific White-sided Dolphins en route to viewing the orcas.

It was an extremely interesting day to be out touring. The sea was calm and the lighting perfect for viewing off into the distance. Hauled out Harbour Seals were seen early in the tour followed by the sighting of the Humpback Whale who is commonly called "Twister". Fluking is infrequent with this whale but today we were fortunate because at one time, when taking a deep dive, the fluke was fully exposed and it was exciting when a full breach was observed as passengers and crew looked on! Following this, a pleasure craft reported seeing orcas in Arrow Passage heading south and it was near the White Cliff Islands that we spotted them; several blows and dorsal fins were seen as they headed towards Knight Inlet. As we drew near, the orcas were quickly identified as being Transient Orcas (marine mammal feeders) by Jared, S.V. Tuan’s Skipper. They were: T014, T020, T021, T124,T124D, T124E, T090, T090B. The viewing was excellent, and while the orcas headed on up the Inlet, there was time enough for photography, for enjoying their visual beauty and for listening to their powerful blows. On the way home, a Minke Whale was sighted briefly. Also today, out of interest, an Ancient Murrelet was also seen.

When S.V. Tuan headed out this morning the sea was very calm and remained so all day long.
A humpback whale was sighted and when drawing near, some very good sightings were observed. Dalls Porpoises and a Stellar Sea Lion were also sighted. On the afternoon sailings, the MV Cetacea and SV Tuan experienced similar sightings. Two Minke Whales were observed feeding, as well a Humpback Whale. There were sightings of Harbour Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Stellar Sea Lions and a River Otter. Dall’s Porpoises were bow-riding on M.V. Cetacea early on in the tour. Bald Eagles in flight, fishing and in trees (along with their nests) were sighted. Krill was plentiful in the water and observed on both the a.m. and p.m. tours.
The scenic and very peaceful waterways of the Plumper Islands were enjoyed by all on the way home where Belted Kingfishers were seen darting back and forth.

It was a very blustery day out on the water, sunny and beautiful. This morning while on tour there were no reports of any orca activity from any boats on the water. Sea conditions were very choppy and made scanning for blows and fins difficult. The day was glorious even so and the wind was perfect for sailing. After leaving the dock at Alder Bay this morning, we sailed across Weynton Passage and on down Johnston Strait dropping the sail to enjoy the scenic waterway at the bottom end of Hanson Island and cruised on up into Blackfish Sound. Dall’s Porpoises bow-riding delighted all onboard. As the tide turned to flood in Weynton Passage there was active herring ball and gull feeding activity in the choppy waters but there was no sign of any Minke or Humpback Whales at the time we toured back, heading for home. The scenic water ways, bathed in sunshine were beautiful to see and enjoyed by all.

Seeing blows and fins at the top end of Johnstone Strait this morning was a welcome and wonderful surprise; the viewing of orcas being so early into the tour. As we neared the two pods (A8’s and A23’s) they had just turned back to the east. The A23’s + A28 were traveling on the VI shoreline, A60 a few 100 meters out but parallel to the pod. The A8’s were on the Hanson Island shoreline. Wind conditions were perfect for sailing and so with our mainsail hoisted, it was really enjoyable to sail along quietly with the A23’s. As the A8’s began crossing back over towards the VI shoreline passengers had some very good viewing of them. The new calf this time was observed to be swimming with A42. Other sightings: Stellar Sea Lions swimming, Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles in trees and fishing, Rhinoceros Auklets and numerous Gulls who were feeding on krill and herring.

It was another breathtaking and beautiful day of viewing marine mammals on the water.
This morning a Minke Whale was observed very early on in the tour followed by the sighting of KC the 6 year old Humpback Whale. KC was enjoyed under full sail, it was wonderful to be moving quietly along beside, giving everyone a very special viewing experience. Dall’s porpoises were seen along the way and a second sighting of a Minke Whale was observed on the way home along with numerous Harbour Seals. In the afternoon, passengers early into their tour had a brilliant viewing experience with a Humpback Whale. It was lunge feeding on krill and the viewing was superb and very exciting! Krill was seen to be everywhere, easily visible on the surface of the water. A Minke Whale was also sighted, Dall’s Porpoises ++ Harbour Seals ++ and a Stellar Sea Lion.

What an amazing afternoon to be out on the water; the sea was alive with an abundance of marine mammal activity. As both vessels headed out the sun was shinning and the sea was calm giving good visibility to see far into the distance. The orcas were sighted heading west in Johnstone Strait, the A8’s and A23 pods, they were working both shorelines as they foraged. Before turning at the top end, the A23’s vocalized briefly and turned back to the east just as the A8’s had also done. It was interesting to see A60 cross back over and rejoin with his family as both pods headed down the VI shoreline. KC the 6 year old Humpback Whale was observed by all, the whale being easily identified by its fluke. Passengers onboard the SV Tuan enjoyed the company of Dall’s Porpoises and Pacific White-sided Dolphins bow-riding on two occasions. Others sightings on the tours were: Stellar Sea Lions, hauled out Harbour Seals and their pups, Bald Eagle nests, Eagles in trees, in flight and fishing, and a River Otter. A large Minke Whale was sighted on the way home, it was feeding on krill and herring. The viewing was superb and looking over the side of the boat, both the krill and herring could be seen swimming in the water below. There were numerous other birds sighted, they included Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catches, Rhinoceros Auklets, Black Turnstones and Pigeon Guillemots.

This morning heading out, Harbour Seals followed by Dall’s porpoises were seen and shortly after, three stellar sea lions were viewed swimming along. The water was calm and visibility was very good for scanning off into the distance. A minke whale was glimpsed and as the boat drew nearer, passengers enjoyed some excellent viewing. Another stellar sea lion was sighted, this time feeding on a fish. In the distance a humpback whale blow was sighted and shortly after, the 6 year old Humpback Whale named Kelp Creature (KC) was identified. There were numerous birds sighted that included Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catches, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots and Bald Eagles. It was at 1.30 pm when the tour had ended and the boat was back in the harbour that a report came in that the A5 pods had just been sighted at the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and were headed back to the west.

The misty morning was clearing rapidly as we headed out on tour.
It was in Blackfish Sound that we sighted a humpback whale blow and as we drew closer, the distinguishing tail fluke of Kelp Creature (KC) the six year old humpback whale was identified. KC appeared to be relaxed and resting and with our main sail hoisted, it was wonderful sailing along quietly nearby, enjoying the sights and sounds of the whale in a gentle manner.
On the afternoon tour, KC was again sighted and again our main sail was hoisted. The day had turned sunny and the light winds were welcome. Other species observed throughout the day: Harbour seals and their pups, Dall’s Porpoises, Red-necked Phalaropes, Black Turnstones, Black Oyster Catchers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, numerous Bald Eagles and an eaglet in the nest. The viewing of a single Caspian Tern in flight was wonderful to see.

JULY 12, 2008

What a glorious day to be out on the water. Cruising down Johnstone Strait this morning we were headed in the direction that the incoming orca pods had taken more than an hour earlier. We passed small groups of Dall’s Porpoises along the way who were intent on feeding, as well, several small flocks of Red-necked Phalaropes that were feeding at Cracroft Point. We had clear visibility and numerous blows could be seen well off in the distance in the vicinity of the Robson Ecological Reserve. It was exciting seeing them there and realizing that they had stopped to rub. As it was, their rubbing at the beaches was brief and all of the pods (the A11’s, A23’s, A8’s and G17’s) began heading back to the west, some inside the Ecological Reserve Boundary and some well outside. We had some wonderful viewing of the G17’s and the A11’s including A73 (Springer). A few pacific white-sided dolphins were among them as they traveled, one was observed to be with A73 who was foraging alone at one point. As quickly as they had headed east, they headed back to the west, some foraging was observed. Seeing the familiar sight of the orcas, back in Johnstone Strait was indeed a wonderful sight!

July 11, 2008

Today it was calm and quiet on the water.
Sightings were varied with approximately 6 harbour porpoises being sighted early on in the tour. There were several stellar sea lions and one was seen feeding on a fish. Dall’s porpoises were playful and bow-riding at times which was exciting to see. Harbour seals were plentiful and one was seen eating a flounder fish “whole” which seemed extraordinary, considering the size and shape of the fish! Bald Eagle nests were observed, there were many eagles sighted throughout both tours, both in flight and resting in trees. The highlight of the day was the viewing of a humpback whale and while it did not fluke its tail it was wonderful to watch. Some 20+ pacific white-sided dolphins added a lot of interest and enjoyment to the tours, they were amazing to watch, especially when they leaped clear out of the water.

JULY 10, 2008

A full arching rainbow was seen in Alert Bay ahead of the boats departure. It was one of those glorious rainbows that arched across the entire bay, the colours bright and seemingly very close. Blustery winds changed the seascape from yesterday’s calm and brought choppy waves to the surface, a day to let the wind shake loose and let ones spirits soar.

Two humpback whale blows were sighted in Blackfish Sound, one of them was later identified as KC the 6 year old who has been sighted frequently this summer. It was nice to watch as the two humpbacks made their way back up Blackfish Sound. Pacific White-sided dolphins were also seen close-by, passing under the boat as it sailed along, bowriding at times. Dall’s porpoises delighted everyone onboard when 6-8 came together, bowriding the boat as it headed back through the Blow-hole. The sunlight was intense, bringing a sparkle to the water and to the lush green forested islands of the Plumper Islands.

July 9, 2008

A beautiful sunny day unfolded under calm sea’s and today’s tours proved to be very exciting, but each in their own way. Heading out this morning, three + stellar sea lions were observed swimming along followed by the viewing of numerous harbour seals that were hauled out on rocks. A humpback blow was sighted and as the boat drew nearer, the whale was identified as KC, the 6 year old humpback whale who has been sighted on numerous tours this summer. On a beach a large black bear was sighted and as passengers and crew quietly watched, it was observed turning over rocks, foraging for food. The humpback whale, still in the near vicinity, suddenly began breaching. Unbelievable as it was, a total of 13 breaches were counted! It was remarkable viewing. Heading back home, dall’s porpoises were also seen, one choosing to bow-ride briefly. On the afternoon tour a large minke whale was seen early into the tour and the humpback whale was also seen, this time it was observed cart-wheeling on four occasions which was pretty exciting to see.

July 8, 2008

The low grey skies had begun to clear when S.V. Tuan departed on tour this afternoon.
While cruising near Weynton Passage, taking in the bountiful scenery of the Stephenson Islands with its hauled out harbour seals, nesting gulls, oyster catchers, harlequin ducks, pigeon guillemots and bald eagles, the report came in that orcas had been sighted for the first time today. It was good and timely news that brought smiles to all on board.

Heading down Johnstone Strait the two A5 pods (A8’s and A23’s), were soon sighted and some wonderful viewing was gleamed that included some breaching activity and foraging. It was an exciting encounter that included bow riding Dall’s Porpoises on the way home. Out of interest, several Leaches Storm-Petrels were also seen in the area.

JULY 7: Another amazing day of viewing Orcas, Humpback & Minke Whales!

Three Humpback Whales, 8 Resident Orcas and a Minke Whale were all observed early on in the tour. Another pair of Humpbacks, a mother and calf were also later seen on tour.
Passengers enjoyed the early viewing, watching the interaction of the three Cetaceans who were feeding together at close range. The blows of the orcas were the first to be sighted in Johnstone Strait and simultaneously a Humpback blow was also seen in Weynton Passage, followed by the surprise surfacing of a Minke Whale feeding nearby. As it turned out, two more Humpback whales were seen to have joined in the feeding frenzy in Weynton Passage. The two pod's of orcas, the A23's and the A8's, commonly called the A5's were the same pods that were in Johnstone Strait yesterday. The orcas, having passed through Weynton Passage, turned and headed east in Blackfish Sound while the Humpback Whales moved out into the Queen Charlotte Strait. It was a great way to spend the day amongst the myriad of species that included: Dall's Porpoises, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots and others!

JULY 6: The Orcas have arrived! Two pods: the A8's and the A23's. It was a brilliant and exciting day of viewing numerous Cetaceans.

Shortly after departing from Alert Bay this morning, passengers were thrilled to see 50+ Pacific White-sided Dolphins as they raced on by, moving quickly to the west, they were seen leaping clear out of the water.
Soon after, a Humpback Whale was sighted in Pearse Pass, it was cruising along slowly; some 10+ Pacific White-sided Dolphins were travelling with it. The knowledge that Orcas had been sighted in Johnstone Strait prior to the tour departing, added greatly to the already excited atmosphere onboard the boat. Passing hauled out Harbour Seals and numerous Bald Eagles, the blows of the Orcas were soon sighted. What a beautiful sight indeed! They had turned and were headed towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, foraging as they went. The orcas were identified as the A8's and the A23's, a new calf was observed among them and A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. On the way home, there were bow-riding Dall's Porpoises and a second Humpback Whale was sighted then finally, a third! What a way to end an action-packed Cetacean day!



July 4: What a beautiful and exciting day out on the water for both passengers and crew. The sighting of three Humpback Whales and a Minke Whale was indeed remarkable. The surfacing of the Minke Whale suddenly, at the bow of the boat took passengers and crew completely by surprise. A close encounter with a Minke Whale is very rare indeed. Ever changing visuals with sea birds in flight or resting; increasing daily in number now are the Rhinoceros Auklets, so often seen winging their way across the water and then landing and diving suddenly under the water is an intriguing sight to watch. Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles ++



July 3: On both of our tours today, passengers enjoyed the sightings of KC the Humpback Whale foraging again in Blackfish Sound as well as a Minke Whale. It is always a treat to see the quiet feeding behaviour of a Minke Whale. Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles were also seen. In the morning as the fog began to lift, the sunlight revealed a sparkling and beautiful seascape.



July 2: On this lovely day, passengers enjoyed the viewing of Kelp Creature (KC) the 6 year old Humpback Whale who was feeding in Blackfish Sound. KC's fluke with its kelp attachment and white pigmentation makes it some-what easy to identify. Dall's Porpoises were also seen as well as hauled out Harbour Seals and numerous Bald Eagles. Travelling back through the tranquil water-ways of the Plumper Islands was enjoyed by all.

SAIL WITH THE WHALES – WILDLIFE UPDATE July 1, 2008
Happy Canada Day

The SV Tuan cruised up Johnson Strait. The moody morning fog lifted and the sunlight reflected upon the ocean water. I cupped a warm coffee as we quietly explored the Pearse Islands listening to the calls of bald headed eagles. Not far from Hanson Island five Dall’s porpoises playfully swam towards us and started bow riding. Fresh baked muffins brought hungry hands together to sit and chat. The boat sailed on. That was when we heard the sound of our first humpback. Two humpbacks surfaced about 100 meters behind us. They must have been bigger than the boat. The sea was alive with small whirl pools as the tide shifted. Sea birds dove in and around the swirling currents. Five white sided dolphins were feeding within the bubbling broth. An unexpected humpback surfaced and approached our vessel. What a treat watching its massive body move above and below water. The Tuan slowly turned and began its journey home. What a wonderful way to celebrate Canada Day.