Lauren | M/V Osprey | Thursday, August 14th, 2025 | 12:30 PM
Today we went the distance! The M/V Osprey made the 30 mile trek from Friday Harbor to Cowichen Bay on the east coast of Vancouver Island. We got a report that whales were picked up in Saanich Inlet heading north. These whales heading north was a good sign, but if they headed northwest we would be in a predicament. We left the dock and headed for these whales, hoping for the best. With no time for stops, we left Friday Harbor and cruised northwest towards British Columbia. These whales were not doing us any favors, as they headed northwest towards Cowichan Bay. At least they were heading towards a dead end, so we knew they would have to double-back eventually. After almost two hours of traveling, we finally made our way on scene with these two orcas.
T063/Chainsaw is a local legend out here. He is known for having one of the most recognizable dorsal fins in the population. It is always a treat to get to see him. This mamas boy is almost always seen traveling with his mother T065/Whidbey II. T065/Whidbey II is estimated to be at least 57 years of age. As a post-reproductive female, it is not surprising Whidbey II is frequently seen traveling with just her son, as her two adult daughters have already broken off and become the matriarchs of their own offspring. Males tend to stay by their mothers side throughout the entirety of their lives.
Since we travelled so far, our time with the whales was short but luckily for us right as we got on scene they decided to head out of the bay instead of further into it. We got fantastic looks as these whales swam alongside us leading us out of the bay. On our way back to Friday Harbor we had time for one quick stop at Sentinel Rock to view some harbor seals.
Check out our SmugMug to see photos of all the wildlife from today’s trip at https://sanjuansafaris.smugmug.com/