A Fantastic day on the water with Orcas: A34's/A46, A23's & A25's and breaching Orcas as well as Humpback Whales!

IMG_5603 IMG_5604 IMG_5594 IMG_5593 IMG_5591 IMG_5586 IMG_5584 IMG_5579 Every day is different out here, and that is what makes each trip a unique experience. We saw a large number of harbour seals hauled out on the rocks with their fellow birds (black oystercatchers and black turnstones), looking mighty relaxed. We made our way past Stubbs Island and had a nice viewing of some long diving Humpback Whales. It was nice to spend a quiet few minutes waiting for them to surface and it made for excellent timing for what we encountered next.

They were families of resident orcas arriving into Blackfish Sound led by A46, the last surviving brother of the Three Boys, (A32, A37 & A46) and son of A36 (A36 Matriline). He has joined the A34's and has been with them constantly since his first sighting into our area this summer. It is so good to see this and his obvious connection with the A34's that began with A34's mother, A12, several years ago. For those of us who know the story, it has been heartwarming to see him swimming just ahead of, and most definitely with the A34's, where he has found a place within the family group. Behind them came the A23/25s. There were some excellent A-Clan vocals that we heard via our hydrophone, and we were able to shut the engine and watch as they swam by. We were fortunate enough to see a few full breaches as the larger than life, orca seemed to fly out of the water and land with a big splash. It caused some of us to scream and giggle like little children! It was an absolutely wonderful day of viewing orcas and so much more!

Today's penned comments:

"Thanks to you. You made one of my dreams real. I hope to be able to come out with you again from France. Thanks and many thanks to the great crew and a special thanks to the great scones made." Hubert, Paris, France

"Wonderful scenery, wonderful whales! "Michelle, Sydney, Australia

"Thank you for putting a little gem into our vacation!..Had a great time and will come back!" Hannah, Kathy, & Darren, Iowa, USA

ToursSeasmoke Whale Watchinga23s, a25's, a34's/a46, black oyster catchers, humpback whales, orcasComment