SAIL WITH THE WHALES - WILDLIFE UPDATE July 22, 2011
It was a beautiful day with barely a breathe of wind when we headed out and with a report of orcas traveling west from the “Cliff” we decided to travel through Weynton Passage and down Blackfish Sound observing harbour seals and bald eagles and their nests along the way. A small group of dall’s porpoises surprised everyone riding at the bow briefly and just prior to our entering Johnstone Strait we encountered a humpback whale in passing. The orcas were: A12 foraging alongside A37 while A46 foraged closer to the Vancouver Island shore and as we were observing them a large group of pacific white-sided dolphins suddenly appeared from the east, they were soon seen mobbing the orcas who promptly disappeared taking long dives.
It was interesting to observe as the orcas foraged intensely, turning back to the east they finally traveled out through Blackney Passage into Blackfish Sound moving quickly with the ebb current, they were grouped with A12 in the middle between the two brothers, it was a beautiful sight to see! As we watched, a humpback whale was sighted and soon another smaller group of dolphins surrounded it, mobbing it as it surfaced and dived, it was trumpeting and was exciting to see. We headed up Blackfish Sound watching as the orcas moved further west and cruised close to the White Cliff Islands where we were fortunate to see a minke whale foraging. It was a fabulous day to be on the water, the sightings were superb! Other sightings included: stellar sea lions, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, common murres, red-necked phalaropes, an eaglet in the nest.

SAIL WITH THE WHALES - WILDLIFE UPDATE July 21, 2011
Today’s tour was one of magic, beauty and sunshine. An action packed day with numerous sightings of cetaceans it was hard to believe that what we were seeing was real, it was so good and so special. Early in the tour a minke whale was sighted in Weynton Passage and then two majestic stellar sea lions hauled out, they were regal in their stance and easy to photograph. A humpback whale could be seen nearby making for some exciting viewing when a report came in that orcas had been sighted a distance ahead of us on the north side of Malcolm Island. As we neared Lizard Point their dorsal fins were easily visible on the surface of the calm blue water, two groups in resting lines, moving very slowly to the west. At the same time another humpback whale was sighted near to Foster Island crossing over towards Lizard Point as well, and our passengers were thrilled to observe it breaching at one point. The resident orcas, the A30’s and B’s were wonderful to watch in their separate family groups; the B’s were slightly ahead of the A30’s who were close behind them and one male orca could be seen foraging alone in the distance, this turned out to be A39. The orcas were silent, no vocals were heard during the time that we were with them. It was so good seeing A50’s new calf and the interaction exchanged between the younger calves, some spy-hopping behaviour was observed. The orcas continued to rest, the A30’s turned back east briefly and then began moving north and the B’s followed. The collapsed dorsal fin of B13 was clearly visible as was the crinkly one of his brother B10. The humpback whale caught up to the orcas and could be heard trumpeting as it continued off to the west, we identified this one as ‘Lefty’. At the time of our viewing we were joined by a small group of pacific white-sided dolphins who stayed nearby, some rode at the bow of the boat keeping just below the surface of the water, ever so gently they swam as boat was barely moving. With hardly a breathe of wind, calm seas, blue sky and sunshine we could not ask for any more. It was a truly remarkable day. Other sightings included: dall’s porpoises, harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets, white-winged scoters and bald eagles.

SAIL WITH THE WHALES - WILDLIFE UPDATE July 20, 2011
The fog lingered awhile this morning making it difficult to scan far into the distance but with a report of A5 resident orcas traveling east early this morning past the Boat Bay Light and later off Milly Island, we headed instead out into the Queen Charlotte Strait. With the fog clearing we began to see flocks of birds, mostly rhinoceros auklets but also marbled murrelets, common murres and red-necked phalaropes. As we watched, numerous Bald Eagles had gathered and began fishing, flying in with their talons ready to snatch one or more of the small fish when their talons hit the water. The skillful flying antics were observed as we drifted quietly nearby when suddenly a minke whale was sighted by one of our passengers, it too was feeding on what we believed to be herring. It was fabulous viewing and enjoyed by all as we sat back watching the spectacle unfold, the only boat in the area, we felt a real sense of ‘connectedness’ as the species worked together to feed. Traveling down into Blackfish Sound pacific white-sided dolphins could be seen ahead of us, they were on a feeding frenzy as well. Two large humpback whales were sighted further ahead making their way towards us and as they came near, we could not help but feel their peaceful presence, two beautiful whales, swimming side by side, synchronized, they surfaced and dived simultaneously, it was mesmerizing watch. What an amazing day it was with such an array of species sighted, all coming together to feast on the small schooling fish that looked to be in abundance today. It is the first day that we have witnessed so much seabird activity in the area with herring balls worked by the birds, it is a good sign that summer is progressing. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, harbour seals, pigeon guillemots, white-winged scoters, mew gulls and california gulls, two eaglets in separate nests. A fabulous day indeed!

It was another beautiful day when we headed out this morning, the current was ebbing fast and numerous harbour seals could be seen hauled out on the rocks, mothers and their pups while some stellar sea lions were observed near to the boat, they were relaxed and milling on the surface seemingly unaware of our presence. Shortly after a Humpback Whale was sighted near the Plumper Islands in Weynton Passage when it suddenly breached clear out of the water surprising everyone. It was exciting to watch as it surfaced and dived, feeding in the current. Touring through the island waterways viewing bald eagles and their nests and belted kingfishers darting back and forth was relaxing, a small mink running along the beach was good to see. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, belted kingfishers, oyster catchers, mew gulls, a great blue heron, bald eagles and an eaglet in its nest.

Cloud hung low overhead when we headed out this morning and with a strong ebb current flowing we were soon swept out into the Queen Charlotte Strait where three Humpback Whales were sighted. As we observed, they proceeded to move slowly to the west with the current, at times only two were sighted surfacing together and then there were three and it was fascinating to watch as this mighty threesome swam gracefully along together; they had been earlier identified as Ariel, Horizon and Lefty. Leaving the whales near to Lizard Point we turned back and it was in Weynton Passage that we sighted a Minke Whale and passengers enjoyed its presence while partaking of their Devonshire teas. Passing by the Stephensen Islands the scenic beauty was awesome, the water and sky was a brilliant blue colour that was enhanced by the sun shining brightly. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, harbour seals hauled out and swimming, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, red-necked phalaropes, belted kingfishers, oyster catchers, bald eagles and an eaglet in its nest.

This morning with fog lingering late and a report of orcas traveling east in Johnstone Strait in the early a.m. we headed in that direction. The fog was clearing when a tug and tow also traveling east reported orcas passing them at Naka Creek, headed in the same direction but traveling faster than they; the orcas were later reported still going east of Adams River. We turned into Blackfish Sound and could see blue sky and brilliant sunshine ahead of us and the blow of a Humpback Whale. A small group of Dall’s Porpoises delighted passengers when they suddenly came alongside and swam at the bow of the boat, it is always fascinating to view them under the water as they dart back and forth. It was interesting to observe the Humpback Whale as it surfaced and dived, it was very relaxed moving slowly, lingering at the surface between dives; another Humpback Whale was sighted briefly ahead of us on our way home. The day turned out to be a beautiful one, warm and sunny! Other sightings today included: stellar sea lions, harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, common murres, belted kingfishers, bald eagles and great blue herons.

How good does it get, resident orcas again in Johnstone Strait and sailing with them! Today the clouds revealed patches of blue sky as we headed out this morning and soon after leaving the dock we were joined by a group of pacific white-sided dolphins who travelled with us towards Alder Bay. There were 12-15 and as we departed, heading east from Alder Bay they could still be seen mid strait foraging. It was a good start to the day but there was more to come when resident orcas, the A23’s were reported in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and heading to the west towards us. As we drew closer it was fabulous seeing the familiar sight of dorsal fins, as well as their blows against the Vancouver Island shoreline. It was exciting and wonderful for everyone onboard especially so when we were able to hoist the mainsail and sail along quietly with the orcas. With light winds blowing from the SE and the orcas continuing to forage to the west we decided to do the same, sailing back in the direction that we had come from. We left the orcas foraging at Beaver Cove and sailed along, our passengers enjoying their Devonshire teas in the sunshine! Other sightings today included: harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, oyster catchers, belted kingfishers and great blue herons.

It was a quiet and gentle day on the water and as we explored several of the island waterways our passengers found them to be charismatic with an abundance of natural beauty. We encountered a minke whale feeding in Weynton Passage and following this, bald eagles were sighted with three eaglets observed in their nests and two black-tailed deer were seen grazing in separate locations on small rocky outcrops of islands. We encountered a large group of pacific white-sided dolphins out in the Queen Charlotte Strait, they were well spread out intent on feeding; some could be seen leaping clear out of the water while others cruised alongside. On the way home another minke whale surfaced suddenly beside the boat, it was exciting to see and observe its behaviour. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, stellar sea lions, harbour seals, rhinoceros auklets, common murres, belted kingfishers and great blue herons.

A mysterious day beckoned us when we headed out this morning into heavy fog but it was not long before the curtain of fog began to lift slowly revealing islands and the marine life living amongst them. There were harbour seals hauled out and swimming in the water, mothers and their pups, bald eagles and their nests with an eaglet sitting in one of them was wonderful to see. Later, a single pacific white-sided dolphin swam by and then suddenly a large group could be seen close and far away. It was fabulous watching their antics and as dolphins always do they made everyone on board feel happy and glad: some were cruising along keeping pace beside the boat and riding at the bow while others were leaping clear of the water and then, as suddenly as they had joined us they were gone feeding in the opposite direction. The day had warmed up considerably and the sun was shining when we stopped to watch as a stellar sea lion ate a large salmon that it had caught. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, oyster catchers, pigeon guillemots, red-necked phalaropes, belted kingfishers and great blue herons.

A wonderful day transpired for us when we were out on tour today. The fog cleared quickly in Johnstone Strait and shortly after our departure a good sized group of pacific white-sided dolphins were sighted off our bow, they were relaxed and feeding quietly, some could be seen leaping clear of the water while others swam alongside briefly as we headed towards the Stephenson Islands. Harbour seals were sighted swimming in amongst the kelp forests as the current flooded in from Weynton Passage and bald eagles could be seen drying themselves high in a tree on one of the Stephensen Islands. With a report of two humpback whales traveling near to Blinkhorn in Johnstone Strait we headed in their direction and observed as they continued moving to the east. They were identified as ‘Stripe’ and ‘Chunky’, two whales that are often seen in these local waters. We traveled back via island waterways and were rewarded with the viewing of a mature bald eagle in flight above us carrying a salmon in its talons and flying directly into its nest to an eagerly awaiting eaglet. That was a treat and suddenly a minke whale was sighted close by in Weynton Passage and we observed it feeding in the current. At the end of the tour a family of geese, two parents and their 16 goslings were sighted clustered together on the water, one of the goslings was very small compared to the others and was seen lagging behind with one of the parents keeping in close contact, both being separated from the rest of the family. An unusual sighting and somewhat disturbing to watch, knowing that the smaller gosling did not have the strength to keep up with the others as well, boats were passing by and none of the goslings were able to fly, they were all very vulnerable on the water. It brings to mind the damaging impact that we humans can have on bird life (and marine life) and that their survival is often not only the ‘survival of the fittest’ but by sheer chance that they do not get hit by a fast moving vessel when they are unable to fly or move out of the way in time. Other sightings today included: dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, oysters catchers, pigeon guillemots, harlequin ducks, bald eagles and two eaglets in separate nests.

It was another fabulous day for viewing marine mammals in the area. Shortly after heading out this morning there was a report of a Humpback Whale and as we were sighting its blow near to Stubbs Island, orcas were reported traveling east from Lizard Point. By their behaviour the orcas looked to be Transients and we were very fortunate to encounter them near to Donegal Head and watched as they passed by the boat, there were four of them who were later identified as Transients T101’s:T101, T101A, T101B & T102. It was very exciting to watch as they surfaced, swimming in the flood current through Weynton Passage and entered into Johnstone Strait. Dall’s Porpoises were sighted nearby, Pacific White-sided Dolphins were across on the Vancouver Island shoreline while a second Humpback Whale was sighted traveling west in Johnstone Strait, it was mid Strait, with the orcas swimming closer to the Hanson Island side of the Strait. Turning back we explored some island waterways viewing Harbour Seals and a Stellar Sea Lion and enjoyed a wonderful encounter with a Minke Whale feeding in the flood current. Other sightings today included: rhinoceros auklets, oysters catchers, pigeon guillemots, harlequin ducks, bald eagles and an eaglet in the nest.

Today’s tour has to be the best of the season so far with so much happening from beginning to end. Departing from Alder Bay we headed into Pearse Passage where passengers alerted us to the sighting of a Black-tailed deer walking along the beach of Cormorant Island, such a sighting is a rarity indeed! The blow of a Humpback Whale was sighted soon after out in the Queen Charlotte Strait and we headed in that direction, finding two Humpback Whales amidst a large group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins. The sightings were fantastic as we observed the antics of numerous dolphins mobbing the Humpback Whales as they came to the surface to breathe while other dolphins could be seen well off in the distance leaping clear of the water; the large group were spread well across the bottom end of the Queen Charlotte Strait and could be seen in every direction that we looked. Suddenly the dolphins were seen moving towards the east, porpoising rapidly and soon after there was a report of Orcas heading east from the Holford Islets. From the rapid departure of the dolphins and the sighting of the orcas with their erratic movement and long dives, it was obvious that they were Transient Orcas (marine mammal predators) and not Resident Orcas. There were four of them who were later identified as the T30's and we were fortunate to get a good look at them as they traveled together, one large male, two females and a juvenile. It was exciting viewing: listening to their blows and waiting for them to resurface and we observed as they headed into Retreat Passage where at that point we left them. Heading for home passengers were again treated to the sighting of another Black-tailed Deer (buck) grazing on an island of the Pearse Islands. It was a fabulous ending to a brilliant day of viewing. Other sightings today included hauled out harbour seals, dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, oysters catchers and Bald Eagles.

today

What a marvelous day we had in the sunshine! Today had to be one of the loveliest days so far this summer with warmth, sunshine and whales. A minke whale was sighted out in Weynton Passage and we observed as it foraged back and forth; pacific white-sided dolphins were also feeding nearby. A humpback whale was reported coming in off Lizard Point and we encountered it near to Donegal Head and as a light breeze was blowing we were able to sail, moving along quietly beside it. The humpback was identified as ‘Horizon’, a whale that has been sighted in the area often in the last few weeks. Traveling home via the island waterways, several bald eagle nests were seen, a total of four eaglets were sighted in their nests. Other sightings today included several hauled out harbour seals++, dall’s porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, oysters catchers and pigeon guillemots.

Wind conditions today enabled us to use our main-sail for much of the tour and it was in Blackfish Sound that we sighted a blow of a Humpback Whale near Parsons light and we sailed in that direction. As it turned out there were two Humpback Whales foraging in Blackfish Sound near the bottom end and it was an exciting experience sailing with them and having them surface close-by after a deep dive. As we headed back our passengers were delighted when two pacific white-sided dolphins surfaced alongside the boat taking everyone by surprise, four more followed as we entered a narrow passage in the Plumper Islands but turned back in the ebb current. Fourteen Bald Eagles were observed fishing intensely over a herring ball in Blackfish Sound, a skill made difficult by the wind and wave action of the sea today. At the same time as our viewing the humpback whales a report came in that some orcas were crossing Johnston Strait near the Bauza Islets and making their way west towards the Pearse Islands, they proceeded quickly past Alert Bay, taking long dives and were soon off Haddington Island and then Pultney Point on Malcolm Island. They were identified as being Transients: one male T170 and two females T171 & T172. Other sightings today included : Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, a Great Blue Heron, Oyster Catchers and Bald Eagles.

It was a great day on the water and our viewing of two Humpback Whales including one identified as ‘Stripe’ was fabulous. In total there were three Humpback Whales in the area. Other sightings today included: Stellar Sea Lions, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers, Oyster Catchers, Mew and Herring Gulls.

As we entered Weynton Passage this morning a minke whale was sighted foraging near to Stubbs Island in a back-eddy as the ebb current flowed rapidly out to the west and we too headed in that direction as a large group of pacific white-sided dolphins had been reported in the vicinity of Lizard Point and Donegal Head. Rounding Donegal Head we were soon spotting their small dorsal fins and some splashing in the distance as a few of them leaped clear of the water. Drawing closer the dolphins were clearly visible, their streamlined bodies moving with ease under the water and alongside the boat, some choosing to bow-ride briefly. It was difficult to estimate the number as they were well spread out across the bottom end of the Queen Charlotte Strait and as far across as Penfold Island. Turning back and looking towards Stubbs Island a sighting of a single male orca surfacing twice and that of 2-3 smaller orcas travelling close-by was glimpsed by our deck-hand in the far distance but was not seen again. The distance was too far and the sighting too brief to get a good idea as to where the orcas were headed, they were likely transient orcas passing through the area and as is typical with them, taking long dives and changing direction it is always hard to keep track of their movement even when a sighting is made close by. With so much prey in the area today (dolphins, seals and dall's porpoises) they were fortunate. Passengers enjoyed a nice encounter with some dall's porpoises who rode at the bow of the boat briefly as we headed home, the sighting of numerous hauled out harbour seals, bald eagles and their nests with three eaglets sighted was enjoyed by all immensely.

The beautiful Coast Range Mountains with their snow capped peaks formed a magnificent backdrop to the whales and dolphins feeding in the area today. There were five Humpback Whales, three of whom were feeding amongst a large group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins+++ while two more were reported travelling west of Bere Point and it was fabulous seeing their blows in the distance in every direction we looked. One of the Humpback Whales we identified was ‘Stripe’ who appeared suddenly from the west and we watched as it made its way on the flood current into Weynton Passage. It was a beautiful day with calm waters, clearing clouds and sunshine. Also seen today were: Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Bald Eagles and three eaglets in their nests, Rhinoceros Auklets, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Belted Kingfishers, California, Mew & Herring Gulls.

Today we enjoyed another lovely day on the water viewing numerous cetaceans and birds. Early on in the tour passengers could easily see the blow of a large Humpback Whale in the far distance while a smaller blow was observed closer, that of a juvenile Grey Whale. It was likely the same one that we had seen yesterday and it was exciting to observe as this single young whale foraged along close to the shoreline. After leaving the grey whale we encountered a humpback whale traveling to the west, it had been earlier identified as ‘Horizon’ and a second large humpback whale was sighted in Weynton Passage identified as ‘Stripe’. Shortly after this a third Humpback whale was reported in Blackney Passage and we sighted a fourth one at Lewis Point. The lighting was perfect for seeing the blows and with the day warming up nicely, the view-scape of Humpback Whales near and far was fabulous. We toured amongst the island waterways enjoying the scenery and wildlife and on the way home we sighted a humpback travelling east towards Weynton Passage in the flood current, we believed this to be 'Horizon' who we had sighted earlier in the tour. Other sightings today included: Dall’s Porpoises feeding and ‘rooster-tailing’, Harbour Seals hauled out, a Steller Sea Lion, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Harlequin Ducks, Oyster Catchers, Belted Kingfishers, Bald Eagles and four eaglets in their nests, Mew and Herring Gulls.

July 2,2011

It was a fabulous day for viewing cetaceans despite the wet weather. Humpback Whales were sighted early in the tour and while viewing them four were countered travelling together heading west in Mitchell Bay. A juvenile Grey Whale was sighted close by and later a Minke Whale followed by the sighting of two more humpback whales. At that point a group of three humpback whales returned from Mitchell Bay and headed west while two more were sighted in Blackfish Sound and two others were reported further east. It was very difficult keeping track of their movements but it was believed that 7-8 were in the region today. On the way home we had a nice encounter with 30+ Pacific White-sided dolphins some of whom joined us briefly at the bow of the boat. Other sightings today included: harbour seals, dalls porpoises, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, red-necked phalaropes, mew, california and herring gulls.

Our 2011 season is underway and our first outing was on June 6th.
Our sightings have included Minke Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Mink, River Otters, Harbour Seals, Stellar Sea Lions, Bald Eagles and Eaglets in their nests. On one tour we were fortunate to observe a Bald Eagle feeding on a dead octopus that it had dragged up on a shoreline and beside it was a Turkey Vulture attempting to share in the meal by making itself larger than life with its wings spread wide. It was a once in a lifetime sighting as Turkey Vultures are not often seen in our area and it was exciting to view and observe the interaction between the two birds. On another tour a sighting of a Minke Whale was fabulous when Eclispe (identified by markings on its right side) surfaced very near to the side of the boat.

Today, June 22 we enjoyed viewing two Humpback Whales in Blackfish Sound, Pacific White-sided Dolphins and several small groups of Dall's Porpoises; an Eaglet was also sighted in one of the Eagle nests as we passed by. Since early June we have noticed an increasing number of Rhinoceros Auklets arrive as more herring make their way into the area. Pigeon Guillemots and White-winged Scoters were also seen today.

Sail with the Whales

© JTowers 2010

As we cruised in Johnstone Strait this morning the wind was blowing from the SE and a cool chill was in the air yet the sun was shinning so brightly it made our visibility difficult with shimmering light being reflected off the choppy sea. A large blow was sighted in the distance, it was that of a Humpback Whale while parallel across the Strait and emerging from the western boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve were the Orcas, the A30 Matriline, a family of 10 orcas. As they approached along the Vancouver Island shoreline the two sisters A50 and A54 and their seven off-spring, Dall’s Porpoises were seen among them “rooster tailing” with spouts of water splashing out behind them. Other orcas could also be seen approaching and with our main-sail hoisted and engine off we began sailing quietly along; all on board observing with anticipation and great excitement the orcas as they foraged steadily nearby. It was exhilarating, especially listening to their A-Clan vocalizations and ecolocations via our trailing hydrophone. With orcas foraging on either side of the boat, moving back and forth in all directions as is often the case as they forage and chase salmon it was a fabulous experience for everyone. As we sailed the wind lessened and it was wonderful feeling the warm sun upon our backs. The orcas began angling over towards Blackney Passage where the flood tide had gained momentum and a Humpback Whale was sighted nearby feeding as well. It was a very special experience and encounter with a very special family of orcas. Other sightings included: Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Surf Scoters, Bald Eagles, A Great Blue Heron, Mew and Herring Gulls.

What a beautiful day it was with a bright blue sky reflecting back off the water and the sun shining for most of the tour. With clear visibility we were fortunate to sight a Minke Whale shortly after leaving the dock and it was a great start to the tour. Traveling in Blackfish Sound we encountered numerous Stellar Sea Lions swimming along and Bald Eagles high up on the tree tops, several of whom were drying off their wings. Our encounter with the Orcas was a fabulous one and proved to be very exciting for everyone on board. The A30’s were making their way slowly to the west, they were all spread out across Johnstone Strait with A50, A54 and their off-spring of seven young ones between them foraging along the Hanson Island shoreline with their brothers A38 & A39 and mother A30 the Matriline, closer to the Vancouver Island shore. We stayed initially on the Hanson Island shore observing the young mothers and their off-spring as they foraged intently and passengers enjoyed some breath-taking moments as they swam near the bow of the boat as we sat drifting in the current. With the hydrophone deployed their A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to along with their ecolocation. Resting, foraging, tail slapping, spy-hopping and playful interactions between the younger orcas was behaviour all observed today and even when the hydrophone was not deployed, vocals could be heard above the water. As the orcas foraged at Blinkhorn it was a great surprise to suddenly see A38 foraging towards our boat as it sat idle and drifting and then surface underneath the bow enabling us all to view him from above and below the water. The viewing was superb and made for a wonderful and lasting image for everyone to take away with them. Later, as we sat watching, the orcas suddenly made their turn back to the east and it was A38 who was the last to pass on by as he made his way back down towards Blinkhorn and beyond, swimming very quickly with long dives in an effort to catch up with the rest of his family. Other sightings included: Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres and one was sighted with a herring in its bill, Red-necked Phalaropes, Surf Scoters, Pelagic and Brandt’s Cormorants, Western and Horned Grebes, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls.

Shortly after leaving the dock in Alder Bay this morning a Minke Whale was sighted feeding alongside of numerous gulls. It was a great start to the tour before we traveled further to where numerous Stellar Sea Lions were swimming in the water and many more were observed hauled out. The sounds of their growls were like lions roaring and could be heard a vast distance away. Beyond the sea lions a Humpback Whale was sighted feeding in Weynton Passage and crossing Blackfish Sound a second whale was sighted followed by a third Humpback Whale, these were both feeding intently along with numerous Murres and Auklets. It was exciting to see active feeding including lunge feeding by a whale at one herring ball site; a gull was observed feeding on krill at another site. Altogether there were six Humpback Whales reported in the area today. Other sightings included: Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pelagic Cormorants, Harlequin Ducks, Belted Kingfishers, Surf Scoters++, Western Grebes, Pigeon Guillemots, Mew and Herring Gulls.

What a treat it was today being out on tour viewing marine life. Rain showers beckoned to the east and west of us but as luck would have it, there were only a few sprinkles of rain falling. Our first encounter with a Humpback Whale this morning was exciting especially for those who had never seen a whale before and it is always sobering to recall ones own first encounter and the excitement, joy and wonder expressed and to never take for granted the sheer size and extraordinary grace that Humpback Whales display. In Weynton Passage there were numerous Stellar Sea Lions hauled out and many more in the water swimming that we passed en route to viewing more Humpback Whales. The current was flooding and it was fabulous observing the seabird activity as Common Murres and Rhinoceros Auklets actively worked the area and numerous herring balls could be seen with both bird species feeding alongside gulls and whales. We were fortunate to view four Humpback Whales today and it was especially exciting to see them passing near to the boat, diving and surfacing amongst the birds. Observing two whales feeding together made for some exceptional viewing and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Other sightings today included: Harbour Seals, Red-necked Phalaropes, Pelagic Cormorants, A Pacific and Common Loon, Surf Scoters, Mew and Herring Gulls.

It was a beautiful day on the water despite the heavy fog that lingered late in the day, clearing a little and reforming, it teased us with some glorious visuals of islands, sunlight and a bright blue sky. We had some really nice viewing of a Humpback Whale feeding in the flood current in Weynton Passage, there was also numerous Stellar Sea Lions hauled out and many sightings of them throughout the tour swimming in the water. We cruised through scenic island waterways viewing glistening kelp forests and several Bald Eagles. Other sightings today included: Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-necked Phalaropes, Belted Kingfishers, Black Oyster Catchers, Mew and Herring Gulls.

It was an incredible day out there today and we were lucky to not have any rain during our tour! We did have wind however and traveling in Johnstone Strait this morning there was some wave action as well the sighting of our first Humpback Whale for the day which was very exciting. We made our way through the Plumper Islands into Blackfish Sound where we found the sea condition calm and very inviting. The orcas were reported to be making their way west in the Sound having made the turn into Blackney Passage from Johnstone Strait just as they have done so for the past several days. The A30’s, a family of 10 orcas were resting and moving slowly to the west and with our main-sail hoisted we commenced to sail and did so for the entire length of our viewing time with them while trailing our hydrophone behind us enabling our passengers to listen to their A-Clan calls and ecolocation. We observed as A30 the Matriline and her oldest surviving son A38 traveled closest to Hanson Island while her other son A39 and daughters A50 & A54 with their young off-spring made their way closer to the Swanson Island shoreline. Passengers observed foraging, pectoral slapping and playful interaction between the younger orcas. It was a fabulous experience sailing quietly beside them while observing at times as they lunged, chasing after salmon. In the distance another Humpback Whale was sighted and we made our way in that direction watching as several Dalls Porpoises were actively feeding alongside the Humpback Whale with numerous diving birds all of them feeding on herring. With Stellar Sea Lions swimming around the whale and many more observed hauled out the viewing could not have been better and yet it was when a third Humpback Whale was sighted in Weynton Passage. This one was identified as “Freckles” and has been sighted frequently over the summer. There were four Humpback Whales in the area today. Other sightings included: Harbour Seals+, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Surf Scoters, Red-necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls and numerous migrating birds flying high including a flock of Common Mergansers.

Today was a fabulous day out on the water viewing orcas. We first encountered the A30 Matriline, a family of 10 orcas as they foraged near the mouth of Blackney Passage in Johnstone Strait. It was not long before movement was observed with most of the pod (son A39 and daughters A50 & A54 with their off-spring) entering into Blackney Passage and on into Blackfish Sound with A30 the Matriline and her oldest surviving son, A38 catching them up by passing into Blackfish Sound via the narrow Passage at the bottom of Hanson Island. The winds were lighter in Blackfish Sound and with our main sail hoisted, we were able to sail quietly along trailing our hydrophone enabling our passengers to listen to their A-Clan calls and ecolocation. The orcas were all spread out across the Sound with A30 and A38 traveling and foraging together, A39 was not far away foraging as well while A50 & A54 and their off-spring foraged along the Swanson Island shoreline as they had done so yesterday. At the top of Blackfish Sound a Humpback Whale was sighted feeding in wide circles and passengers also enjoyed their viewing of this whale. Other sightings today included: Stellar Sea Lions++, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Surf Scoters, A Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls. A small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins and also a Minke Whale were sighted briefly in the distance on the way home.

What a beautiful day it turned out to be on the water. With the orcas travelling west in Blackfish Sound this morning we traveled through the “blow-hole” which was closed in with heavy fog and could not believe the open waterway that Blackfish Sound provided being clear of fog! With orcas heading in our direction, the A30’s were observed to be well spread out across the Sound and foraging intently as they moved further west. We stopped and with our hydrophone deployed, passengers could hear their ecolocation and occasional A-Clan calls and it was exciting to see as A50 foraged alongside and back and forth around our boat as we sat idle drifting with the ebb current while her off-spring were playing nearby interacting with a small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins. A50 and A54 with their off-spring made it as far west as Bold Head before moving towards the Plumper Islands to join up with their mother A30 the Matriline and their two brothers A38 and A39, and finally all of them travelled together through a narrow island waterway of the Plumper Islands where they entered once again into Johnstone Strait. Our passengers also enjoyed viewing a young Black Bear foraging amongst boulders on a beach as well a Humpback Whale who was feeding in Blackfish Sound, a second Humpback Whale was sighted a distance away. Other sightings today included: Dall’s Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions++, Harbour Seals++, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Surf Scoters, Pelagic Cormorants, A Western Grebe, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls and numerous migrating birds flying high that we were unable to accurately identify.

The orcas were foraging to the west when we first encountered them this morning and we could not have timed it better for our arrival. Our passengers observed as A50 and A54 with their off-spring foraged along the VI shore while A30 and her sons, A38 and A39 foraged along the Hanson Island shoreline. With wind enough to sail and our main and stay-sails hoisted, passengers enjoyed the thrill of sailing while viewing the orcas foraging intently near Blinkhorn and also listening to their A-Clan calls and ecolocation via our trailing hydrophone. When the orcas turned and commenced travel to the east, passengers observed as A30, A38 and A39 began crossing Johnstone Strait heading towards the rest of the family, all of them were making their way towards Cracroft Point with A30 the Matriline in the lead. Our time with the orcas today was an exciting and very special encounter . Other sightings included: Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres++, Surf Scoters, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls.

While a heavy fog was present when we first headed out this morning, by the time we entered into Weynton Passage it had begun to clear and it was here where we first encountered the four Transient Orcas: T55, T55A, T55B and T55C. It was enjoyable to observe them as they traveled east in Blackfish Sound, they were synchronized in their surfacing together most of the time and it was mesmerizing and beautiful to watch. Leaving the orcas we made our way towards Bold Head in Blackfish Sound which was partially cleared of fog and clearing more as we traveled further. Noticing some large gatherings of Aucklets, Murres and Gulls we waited, listening all the while for a large blow and it was not long before a Humpback Whale was sighted nearby. Identified as ‘Freckles’ this Humpback Whale has been observed frequently throughout the summer. A larger Humpback Whale was also seen surfacing rapidly towards the herring ball before us and it was fabulous to sit quietly with the engine off and watch the spectacle of the two whales feeding intently, it was also a great photo opportunity! With the Queen Charlotte Strait stretched out before us we observed as the two whales would feed and then quickly move off, seeking more bird and herring ball activity. The sea was calm and a gorgeous blue colour was being reflected back from the clearing sky above. On the way home a third Humpback Whale was sighted in the distance. Other sightings today included: Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres++, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls.

The orcas were foraging intently when we arrived at Blackney Passage on our tour this afternoon and our passengers could not have timed it better for marine mammal sightings. The A30’s and I31’s were foraging back and forth in the heavy flood current, it was an amazing scene to behold as we sailed with huge whirlpools forming beside the boat, the current was constantly moving us backwards. There was so much to see with orcas moving in all directions, among them were Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins and also Stellar Sea Lions. The viewings were superb as were the A & G - Clan vocals heard via our trailing hydrophone while we were under sail! On our way home a Humpback Whale was sighted feeding, we observed as it made its way into Johnstone Strait from Weynton Passage where flocks of Gulls had gathered and were feeding on krill that was visible today in the water. Other sightings today included: Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres++, Bald Eagles, Mew and Herring Gulls. It was an amazing day despite the lingering fog that made the water and island visuals all the more beautiful as it began to lift.

Today was a fabulous day for viewing marine mammals despite the rain. With an early report of orcas traveling to the west off Donegal Head this morning we traveled in that direction and although we knew that orcas were ahead of us when rounding Donegal Head we could not see them because the visibility was so poor. Suddenly two orcas were sighted and were quickly identified as the Matriline A30 traveling with her oldest surviving son A38 and they were traveling surprisingly back to the east! We enjoyed some beautiful visuals of the two orcas prior to seeing three more orcas: A39 (the younger son of A30), I46 and his sister I68 from the I31 Matriline. Following them close along the shoreline came A30’s two daughters: A50 and A54 with their calves. Having our hydrophone deployed we heard only a couple of G-Clan calls and some ecolocation, the A30’s were silent. The viewing was superb and extremely interesting especially viewing the dynamics of the three groupings of orcas with A30 and A38 well in the lead. The current was flooding and as passengers observed the orcas making their way towards Weynton Passage, Stellar Sea Lions were also sighted and then a surprise sighting of a Humpback Whale when it surfaced suddenly nearby in the current. With so much activity to watch, the last group of orcas were seen vanishing into Johnstone Strait and were soon obscured from sight by the rain. Passengers continued to watch as the Humpback Whale foraged in the current while a second one was then sighted and both of these were seen moving together toward Malcolm Island. As if it could not get any better it did with the sudden sighting of a large Minke Whale feeding nearby and surfacing beside the boat as it foraged surprising everyone when it did so! Other sightings today included: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Bald Eagles including two fledged eaglets, Mew and Herring Gulls. It was a brilliant day enjoyed by all.

Our tour began this morning with the knowledge that the A30 Matriline (a family of 10 orcas) were traveling east at the east end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Heading in their direction east in Johnstone Strait we encountered first a small group of Dalls Porpoises and later were surprised and delighted to suddenly sight Orcas at Cracroft Point from where they had entered the Strait only minutes earlier from Blackfish Sound. Our timing could not have been better! It was a delight to see the two large orcas with tall dorsal fins ahead of us that were identified as I45 and I62 from the Matriline I33’s. I33 and I110 were sighted traveling along the Cracroft Island shoreline and passengers enjoyed some good viewing of them as well as I45 and I62 as they foraged parallel to their mother. A group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were in the area throughout our viewing and were likely the reason for the orcas taking long dives as the dolphins would mob them when they surfaced. Other sightings today included: Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles++, Mew and Herring Gulls.