Having heard an early morning report that J Pod was milling around the False Bay area, I left the office this morning giddy to get aboard the MV Sealion. The clouds in the sky may have dampened San Juan Island, but they sure weren't dampening our spirits! After coming through Cattle Pass, passing by False Bay and reaching Lime Kiln State Park, we started to see dorsal fins. We travelled slowly on scene because the orcas were spread out all over the place.
As we sat in placed and watched orcas on all side, guests captured beautiful photographs of passing orcas. We had some excellent views of orcas travelling behind our stern and off our bow. Blackberry (J27) made an appearance, alongside what may have been his brother and sister. We hung out with the whales for some time, travelling along one group and then another, until we decided it was best we start heading home. As we were about to head back, one of the young calves, its mother, and another female passed about 150 yards off our starboard side. We had some great glimpses at one of the young new members of J Pod (probably the best view I've had of one of the calves yet this season!).
Heading back, we decided to circumnavigate San Juan Island. It's always fun heading through Mosquito Pass, slowly travelling through provides a great opportunity to view the beautiful houses that line the Roche Harbor area.
A quick pass by Speiden Island allowed for some great views of all of Speiden's exotic creatures, as well as a bald eagle sitting in its nest.
The sprinkles didn't hinder the wildlife-viewing one bit. Another wonderful and mellow day out on San Juan Islands waters.
Until Tomorrow,
Ashley, Naturalist
Orca Whales and Wildlife Are Our Only Business. ©