Saturday, July 4th

Our morning trip started with a stop at Hein Bank where we had initial reports of orcas. While scanning the area, Captain Brad noticed some bird activity near the south Hein Bank - sure sign that a minke whale was most likely present. Heading over to investigate we did find at least two minke whales. We travelled next to False Bay, where we spent some time with Ruffles (J1), Sequim (K12) and several other whales who were travelling slowly up the island. On our way back to Victoria, we were able to catch up again with Ruffles (J1) and Granny (J2) who had turned south and headed offshore. It was an excellent way to end the encounter, spending time with J2, our oldest southern resident orca.

This afternoon we had an excellent trip aboard the Orca Spirit, as we headed east to Haro Strait in search of orcas and other marine life. Our first stop of the tour was at Beaumont Shoals, where harbour porpoise were two numerous to count. It was an amazing experience as we drifted in the current, watching these normally shy cetaceans surface around the boat. After this wonderful experience, we travelled to San Juan Island, where we encountered members of J and K-pods north of Lime Kiln State Park. The orca experience started with a visit with Georgia (K11), the oldest whale in K-pod at approximately 76 years of age. We also had an exhilarating pass from the K14 matriline, consisting of K14 (Lea), K26 (Lobo) and K36 (Yoda), along with the newest calf K42 who was tucked right beside his mother.