Olivia Esqueda | June 21st, 2026 | M/V Osprey | 12:30pm
Today was a heartwarming trip through the Salish Sea. Passing many Harbor Porpoise along the way, and the mountains peaking out behind the haze and clouds, it was remarkably warm with calm seas as we headed north through San Juan Channel in the direction of Boundary Pass. Weaving through Spring Passage and President’s Channel, we ended up north of Waldron Island, coming across a matriline of three Bigg’s Killer Whales- the T100’s! This matriarch, T100- Hutchins, was born around 1979 and was traveling with her eldest son, T100C- Laurel, born in 2002 and youngest calf, T100F- Estrella, born in 2014. These mammal-eating orcas circumnavigated Waldron Island before slowing headed northeast.
After many great views of their black dorsal fins, we traveled over towards John’s and Stuart Island where we found a Humpback Whale! This gentle giant was identified as BCX1800, Gretzky, who migrates to Hawaii during the birthing/breeding season. After seeing a few flukes before four-minute dive times, we eventually peeled away with some quick looks at Harbor Seals before heading home.
So much wildlife in one trip, it was an incredibly humbling June day; one that leaves us looking forward to tomorrow!
Wanting to see more photos from our trips? Visit our SmugMug page at: https://sanjuansafaris.smugmug.com/
More information about the Pacific Whale Watch Association: https://www.pacificwhalewatchassociation.com/