Today was a beautiful day, rich in colour and movement in an ever changing marine environment. Heading down Johnstone Strait this morning Dalls Porpoises++ could be seen in the distance at Blakney Passage, they were feeding in the flood current. At the bottom of Hanson Island we left the Strait and entered into Blackfish Sound, and soon after, the boat was surrounded by numerous Dalls Porpoises who were riding at the bow of the boat and seemed to be everywhere we looked, darting back and forth. In the midst of all of the activity a Humpback Whale surfaced where other Dalls Porpoises were feeding, surprising everyone on board. The viewing of this Humpback Whale who moved further down Blackfish Sound and was soon seen foraging very close to a rock wall and of the Dalls Porpoises, who continued to dive around the boat, was superb.

Todays tour was a very special one, made so by the beautiful dynamics displayed between a matriline who has in recent months lost her son and of three brothers who lost their mother several years ago. We encountered the A36 brothers with A12 near to Bold Head in Blackfish Sound. All of the orcas were very relaxed, some were seen resting while others were foraging, moving very slowly to the west yet not going any distance. A12 was observed spending time very close to A46, A32 was closest to Swanson Island and A37 was not so far from A12 and A46. Passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone as we drifted in the current. The orcas rested, drifting towards Donegal Head while A32 continued to forage.
All the while numerous Bald Eagles were working a herring ball and some wonderful viewing of the Eagles swooping low to pick up herring in their talons was observed, along with Rhinoceros Auklets who were also diving and feeding. As we neared the orcas again, a single Pacific White-sided Dolphin was seen amongst them and then the orcas disappeared for a long dive, resurfacing, they were seen to have grouped altogether. With A12 traveling between A46 and A32 and A37 alongside; it really was quite wonderful to see. Their movement carried them towards Weynton Passage and it was at Stubbs Island that they finally were seen to have made up their minds to head in that direction into Johnston Strait with the flood current pushing them along. Even in the distance as we watched, the four orcas made their way into Johnstone Strait, they were relaxed, swimming alongside in traveling sequence with A12 tight between A32 and A46 with A37 to the left of A32. Having watched A12 solo and alone for several days not so long ago, it truly was heartwarming to see her in this way today.

This afternoon we headed in the direction of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve in Johnstone Strait as the A30’s and A12 were headed back from their journey to the east. Our first sighting showed an orca at Critical Point, soon after others were sighted further back and traveling very close along the VI shoreline. They were all moving at a steady pace foraging as they went. We identified A38 and then A12 who was close behind him a distance out from the shoreline yet closer to the VI shore while A39 was headed more towards the Cracroft Island shoreline. A50 and A54, each with their off-spring including A54’s new calf A94 were also later seen. With the hydrophone deployed, A-Clan calls were clearly audible and wonderful to listen to. The sun was shining brightly and the VI shoreline was sparkling with its intense bright light. On the way home Dalls Porpoises were riding at the bow of the boat to the delight of all on board.

It was a calm and very peaceful day to be out on tour and our encounter with the orcas was very early on as they neared Blinkhorn. The A30’s were making their way foraging along the VI shore. A30 was in the lead with A38 close by, another male was sighted (A39) foraging opposite across the Strait on the Hanson Island shoreline and A12 was further east of him. A54 and her off-spring followed behind A30 & A38 and lastly, A50 and her calves with A72 in the lead. It was especially beautiful to sit listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone, some resting calls were heard amongst others and suddenly as is usual, they all turned and began proceeding to travel back to the east. Other species also seen were: hauled out Harbour Seals, mothers and their pups, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in its nest, Common Murres and Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oystercatchers and Black Turnstones.

Today’s tour was simply wonderful. Our passengers enjoyed some brilliant viewing of orcas while sailing quietly with them in the fog. The A30’s were spread out foraging along the VI shore near Blinkhorn and with light wind conditions present, our main sail was hoisted. It was especially exciting when A50 and her two calves A72 and A84 circled around and behind the vessel chasing after salmon. A84 seemed briefly interested in examining our hydrophone as it trailed along behind the boat, enabling passengers to listen to some beautiful A-Clan vocals as they foraged and we sailed. Other species also seen were: hauled out Harbour Seals: mothers and their pups, Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in its nest, Common Murres and Red-Necked Phalaropes (Northern Phalaropes).

It was another lovely day out in Queen Charlotte Strait and Blackfish Sound this morning. As we headed out a Humpback Whale was sighted near the White Cliff Islands making its way towards Blackfish Sound. It was breathtaking viewing and passengers watched mesmerized as the whale moved back and forth amongst numerous herring balls, lunge feeding and also resting on the surface. Numerous Bald Eagles were observed swooping low over the herring balls and carrying off herring in their talons. Dalls Porpoise joined us bow-riding as we made our way back through Blackfish Sound to the delight of our passengers. Other species also seen were: hauled out Harbour Seals, mothers and their pups +++, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Bald Eagles, Common Murres and Northern Phalaropes.

Today was a most amazing day to be touring out on the water with an abundance of marine mammal activity to observe and listen to. Traveling through Weynton Passage and out into the Queen Charlotte Strait, Dall’s Porpoises and hauled out Harbour Seals were seen simultaneously as well, an Eaglet sitting high up on its nest. Within moments of making way again, we were joined by four Pacific White-sided Dolphins riding at the bow of the boat. Passengers and crew alike had a wonderful time viewing with the Dolphins traveling along. Many more Dolphins were sighted actively feeding in Blackfish Sound, some 150 ++ when a Humpback Whale suddenly surfaced amongst them. The viewing was superb with dolphins surrounding the Humpback Whale, all of them were feeding on herring. The dolphin vocals were wonderful to listen to, as was the trumpeting sound made by the Humpback Whale. A second Humpback Whale was seen tail lobbing in the far distance with mighty splashings being visible. On closer observation this Humpback Whale was seen waving both pectoral fins about, tail lobbing and rolling about with numerous Dolphins who were also feeding nearby. It was an unforgettable and magical sight for those who had never seen Dolphins or Humpback Whales in the wild before. Other species also seen were: Dalls Porpoise, hauled out Harbour Seals, mothers and their pups +++, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Bald Eagles, Common Murres and Pigeon Guillemots.

Today was a beautiful day for viewing marine mammals in the area, the sunshine was warming and very welcome. Early on in the tour the sighting of two Humpback Whales out in the Queen Charlotte Strait were easily visible from a distance. They were feeding on herring (and herring balls) as were numerous Bald Eagles, Rhinoceros Auklets++ and gulls. It was interesting for passengers to observe the two Humpbacks moving in wide circles distant from each other as they fed. With a report of possible inbound orcas from the Numas Islands we headed in that direction and were thrilled to see their dorsal fins ahead of us and west of the Foster Islands. The six orcas were traveling slowly together in a line and were very relaxed for Transient orcas. T020 and t021 were among those orcas sighted.
Other species also seen were: Dalls Porpoise, hauled out Harbour Seals and their pups +++, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Bald Eagles, Common Murres, a Great Blue Heron and Northern Phalaropes.

The fog was clearing as we headed out this morning and soon Dalls Porpoises had joined us, riding at the bow of the boat they delighted all on board as they darted back and forth. The tide was ebbing and Harbour Seals and their small pups were observed to be hauled out on island outcrops and shorelines. At the top end of Blackfish Sound A12 was sighted, she was traveling towards Donegal Head and an advancing fog bank. The fog rolled in and yet A12 was still visible, her black body was viewed in stark contrast to the white blanket of fog that engulfed all. And, as she has done so for the last few days, A12 turned and making her way at a steady pace, she slipped back into Johnston Strait via Weynton Passage. Touring through the island waterways on the way home, the pace was tranquil and the scenery breathtaking. Bald Eagles and their nests, Belted Kingfishers darting back and forth, one Mink, a Stellar Sea Lion, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres and Northern Phalaropes were also seen on tour.

The morning started out grey and overcast with a fog bank looming out in the Queen Charlotte Strait but as the sun rays worked their magic, a beautiful day on the water was soon revealed. A single A-Clan call heard early in the morning via the hydrophone network indicated that the Matriline A12, was likely returning from her travel east last evening and it was later in the morning that she was reported heading back to the east from Weynton Passage. At Big Bay we encountered her, our vessel having entered Johnstone Strait from Blackfish Sound. Although alone, A12 was a beautiful and significant sight to see. She was intent on traveling and although the flood tide had begun, she did not stop to forage off Cracroft Point. We left her as she began crossing over towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Other species also seen today were: Dalls Porpoises, hauled out Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles fishing for herring+++ and in the trees, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Common Murres, Black Oystercatchers, Common Loons, Marbled Murrelets and a Leach’s Storm-Petrel.

As the clouds began to lift, a beautiful day was seen unfolding on the water. Weynton Passage was alive with numerous bird species seen in flight and feeding and Bald Eagles and their nests were viewed as well as four Stellar Sea Lions swimming and numerous Harbour Seals who were hauled out and also swimming in the water. A blow was sighted in the distance in Blackfish Sound twice, it appeared to be the high blow of a Humpback Whale as well an arching dark shape but it was not seen again. A Minke Whale was sighted in Blackfish Sound and a second one near the White Cliff Islands, this second one was feeding extensively. High bird activity on the water indicated the presence of herring balls and Bald Eagles were observed to be gliding low over the water, picking up herring with their talons and feeding on them as they flew. Other species also seen were: Dalls Porpoise, one White-tailed Deer, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Oystercatchers and Black Turnstones.

It was another lovely day to be out on the water. Traveling through the Plumper Islands this morning Bald Eagles and their nests were viewed as well as three Stellar Sea Lions in the water; Harbour Seals were also seen hauled out and in the water. It was at Cracroft Point that an orca blow was sighted, and as we drew near we identified the orca as being A12. Seeing A12 foraging alone today one cannot help but remember days and years past when all of the family was intact including A12’s oldest son, A31. We cannot be absolutely sure that A33 has died, for now he is reported as missing. The A12 Matriline we sighted yesterday: A12 along with her daughter A34 and her off-spring but A33 (A12’s 38 year old son) was not sighted. Today we observed A12 foraging steadily back and forth at Cracroft Point and the rest of her family, the A34’s were not seen. Leaving the area we made our way through Blackfish Sound where off Bold Head we encountered a Humpback Whale feeding. It was a day of immense interest and intrigue for all onboard.

Heading out this morning, passengers enjoyed the viewing of Bald Eagles and their nests and Belted Kingfishers who were darting back and forth prior to the sighting of a humpback whale feeding at the top end of Blackfish Sound and making its way out into the Queen Charlotte Strait. There were a large number of Rhinoceros Auklets and Common Murres also feeding in the area. It was exciting news to hear a sports fishing vessel reporting that orcas were traveling to the east from Lizard Point. En route to the orcas a Bald Eagle was sighted swimming in the water, using its wings to help propel its body along, it finally made it to shore; Dall’s Porpoises were also seen near by. At the time of our encounter with the orcas, the A12 matriline were mingling about, young calves were playful with tail slapping and some resting activity was also observed. A12 was sighted resting, not so far behind A34 and some of her offspring who included A67 and her new calf. A-Clan calls could be heard above the water ahead of the hydrophone being deployed and were wonderful to listen to.

On our tour this afternoon passengers observed the humpback whale KC (Kelp Creature) who was seen initially spy-hopping and rolling around in the kelp providing some interesting viewing. It was a glorious day to be out on the water; the island waterways in which we toured were magical. Other species that were also seen were: hauled out Harbor Seals, a Stellar Sea Lion, Bald Eagles and two Eaglets in their nests, Black Oyster Catchers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre’s and Belted Kingfishers.

On our tour today passengers enjoyed the early sighting and viewing of the A24 Matriline resident orcas.
They were traveling slowly west in Blackfish Sound moving out into the Queen Charlotte Strait against the flood tide where some resting and milling about activity was observed. A Humpback Whale was sighted close by allowing for some wonderful viewing, a second humpback whale was also sighted further away. Wind conditions today enabled sailing with the whales, moving quietly along. It was a most beautiful day for viewing and enjoying the surrounding scenic beauty. Other species also seen were: Harbor Seals, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, numerous Bald Eagles in flight fishing and also in the trees, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre’s and Pigeon Guillemots.

- WILDLIFE UPDATE - 2009

Our tours this year began on June 13 with a humpback whale sighting and viewing of a black bear foraging on the beach. On June 14th, a humpback whale was observed breaching 14 times. Subsequent tours over the following two weeks provided us always with a humpback whale sighting as well on several occasions minke whale(s) and black bear sightings; on several tours we had bow-riding dall's porpoises accompanying us for lengthy periods along the way. On June 25 passengers were thrilled with their viewing of 9 Transient orcas: T014, T020, T002, T002C, T002C1, T002C2, T046B,T046B1, T046B2. Other species also seen were white-tailed deer, harbour seals, stellar sea lions, pigeon guillemots, rhinoceros auklets, bald eagles and two eaglets in their nests.

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.