Tuesday, April 29

On today's tour we headed west of Victoria in search of the many marine wildlife that the west coast of Canada has to offer. We began by searching the shoreline in the hopes to locating transient orcas as they patrolled the area for food. We made our way as far west as Beacher Bay where we saw many harbour seals hauled out on the rocks enjoying the beautiful sun. We were even lucky enough to get a good look at a new pup. From there we headed into a near by cove called Whirl Bay. We had a good look at a large bald eagle's nest (about 6 feet deep and 9 feet across). As we were getting ready to leave this nice little cove a bald eagle came flying in, what an amazing view. From here we headed off shore looking for resident orcas humpbacks and porpoises. With little in the way of large marine mammals, we found ourselves close to a marine park called Race Rocks. Once inside the small passes and islands we were very happy to find some large elephant seals (about 5) and many stellar sealions in the water and on the rocks. We had a great time as they all swam, fought for space on the rocks and made much noise. All in all another great day on the water.