Friday, May 11th

On this mornings tour we had word that our resident J-pod were spotted off the southern shore of Lopez Island. Despite the fog, we made our way there. Once on scene we enjoyed a stunning view as a spread out J-pod surfaced near the shore line. The family unit was feeding, over an area of 2 km, on the many salmon traveling north. We were able to get a great view of Ruffles (J1), a 56 year old male, as he repeatedly changed directions after salmon. We were also able to see J42, a female calf that is only 10 days old. J42 was born to Slick (J16), a 35 years female with 3 other living offspring. On our journey back to Victoria’s Inner harbour, we took the opportunity to stop by Discovery Island where the abundant harbour seals were hauled out on the seaweed covered rocks. We also saw an miniature bald eagle high on the shore line. A great start to a sunny Friday.

By the time our boats were ready to leave for the afternoon tours we were fortunate to have great weather, confirmed whales and an eager group. We met back up with J-pod on the west side of San Juan Island. Although they were still feeding, they were closer together and much more active. We were all pleased when we saw a few amazing breeches, a spyhop and a tail slap good-bye as we left the scene. We stopped by The Chain and Trail Islands to view the harbour seals, many shore and sea birds and a bald eagle perched atop a sign. All in all a fabulous way to start the weekend.