Friday, April 25

I believe spring may have finally arrived in Victoria! After a slow start to spring, we enjoyed a beautiful sunny morning as we headed out on our newest adventure. We had word, from local fisherman, that a group of approximately 4 transient Orcas were heading east towards Victoria in the Strait of Juan De Fuca.

After a search involving 3 boats, we came across not 4, but 8 Orcas off Vancouver Island's Beechy Head. Traveling together were mature females (4 tons, 23 feet in length), juvenile males (3 tons, 18 feet in length) and 2 calves ( at birth 400lbs, 6.5 feet in length). As the view continued, the crew were able to identify the group as the T49A's and the T36's. We enjoyed these large graceful mammals as they traveled the shore line in search for food, generally smaller marine mammals such as Seals, Sealions and Porpoise. All the guests on board were able to get a great understanding of the behavour, while capturing photos that will last a life time.

Once a great view was had by all, we traveled back towards Victoria, only to visit Race Rocks where we stopped to take a look at other marine mammals. We were able to see the Seals and Sealions, giving the guests a better understanding of our circle life on this coast. All the animals hauled out on the rocks were also the major food source for the previously viewed transient orcas. What a great way to end an amazing tour.