Seasmoke News Page

September 30, 2005

Magnificant Humpback Whales!

Our morning today began quietly with not a breath of wind, the sea was calm once
again after two days of rain and constant south east gales. Johnstone Strait

G-Clan pods were last seen the evening before, heading to the west.

On our way out towards Lizard Point passengers enjoyed the viewing of some seven
Sellar Sea Lions hauled out on rocks, another eight or more were seen
swimming close by. Countless sea birds were sighted spread out on the water
near to Donegal Head (Seagulls, Common Murres, Rhinoceros Aucklets, Pacific
Loons and Pelagic Cormorants) where they had all gathered and were feeding on
herring balls.

away, the sight of which excited all on board.

The sighting was magnificant and was to become one of the best Humpback
sightings of the season. The dive sequence was of some 7-8 minutes with 4-5
blows at the surface and then the pair would suddenly disappear, leaving
behind their mighty "footprints" of round swirling ripples on the waters
surface. The final dive sequence was breathtaking when, with the engine off
and the boat drifting, the pair suddenly surfaced nearby surprising
everyone by their size and nearness. Remarkably they moved not away, but
towards the boat, full on, the top of their bodies could be seen, immense
and wonderful, their "blow-holes" fully exposed. Dive after dive, closer and
closer they came until only meters from the boat, they made their final
dive, the mothers fluke was momentarily held high, and then sliced neatly
through the water, while seconds later, the calf's fluke had also
disappeared. Spell binding images that were captured by camera lens and human
eyes and for everyone on board, it was a vivid and awesome, once in a
lifetime experience!

On the way home, a beautiful scenic waterway route was taken through special
island places not always seen on tour. Here the kelp forests lay glistening
and several Bald Eagles were seen in tree tops. The tidal current in Weynton
Passage was once again in full flood and water swirled at the edges of
islands. It was indeed a beautiful day for venturing into the Broughton
Archipelago but for some passengers having not seen orcas, there was
disappointment, but, as one inspired passenger explained. "It is wonderful
that it is this way, that they (the orcas) do not always show, and that they
are free to go and swim where they want to go. Whatever we see in nature is
a gift, each and every day".

and free. That we may glimpse them when they pass our way is indeed a gift.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, White-winged and Surf Scoters, Rhinoceros
Auklets, Common Murres++, California and Herring Gulls, Pelagic Cormorants
and Bald Eagles.

September 27, 2005

A day of breathtaking beauty, Orcas and Humpback Whales!
And what a glorious day it was to commence our tour on, where the waterway
of Johnson Strait was sparkling and blue and magical in every sense of the
word!

Shortly after leaving the dock in Alder Bay, two high plumes of moisture
could be seen rising in the distance, several kilometres away, signifying
the presence of two Humpback Whales further down in Johnstone Strait, but,

with the knowledge of there being several pods of orcas heading steadily west in
the Queen Charlotte Strait, that is the direction in which the SV Tuan
headed.

As fresh baked organic muffins were being devoured by the hearty appetites
of passengers onboard, binoculars were focussed on the more serious matter
of sighting orcas and sure enough, once out into the top end of Blackfish
Sound and Queen Charlotte Strait, several large dorsal fins could be seen
glistening in the sunshine. Simultaneously, suddenly out of nowhere, two
large whales surfaced and passed nearby, crossing the bow of the boat as
they went, a mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales. They were seen
majestically surfacing and diving in sequence, travelling towards Blackfish
Sound. It was a marvellous and unforgettable sight to behold and passengers
were overjoyed at seeing the pair at such close range. Just as we
encountered the pair, another boat reported seeing a single Humpback Whale

being in relative close proximity to one another.

Leaving the Humpback Whales travelling in the opposite direction, and with
eager anticipation mounting, passengers eyes were all turned towards the
orcas of whom were no longer distant. It was an unbelievable sight, with
the Coastal Range Mountains as the backdrop, and the calm glistening waters

of the Queen Charlotte Strait stretched before us, Orcas could be sighted
in all directions. The main sail was erected, the engine was cut and the
hydrophone deployed and suddenly, all onboard were immersed into the
wonderful world, sight and sounds of Orca. G-Clan calls could be heard
clearly and loudly and as wave after wave of vocals sounded in the air,
passengers and crew alike became mesmerized by the exquisite beauty of
their calls.

Sailing quietly in light wind conditions, the SV Tuan gently encountered
those orcas who had been foraging behind, and suddenly they were beside the
boat foraging back and forth, on all sides. What excitement and sheer
delight, an Orca extravaganza accentuated by the glorious late fall weather
and magnificent beauty of the Queen Charlotte Strait. There were so many
orcas to be seen, many ahead, parallel and behind, and because they were
all spread out and foraging over several kilometres, it was not easy to
accurately identify the G-Clan pods. The G18 matriline was present as G39
was sighted (identified by the unmistakable notch near the top of his fin
and swirl in his saddle patch). There were numerous females and calves,
mature and immature males mixed together and separate. It was simply
beautiful to sit back and observe, allowing the images of beauty to etch
deeply into the minds of all onboard .

Each and every moment was filled with wonder and when we thought that it
could not get any better, it did! There were at least four full breaches
observed, tail and pectoral slapping and A-Clan calls were also heard mixed
in with the G-Clan calls. The A36 brothers foraged nearby ( A32 and A37
were together and A46 further in front) as were the A12 matriline while the
Orcas seen further ahead initially were presumed to be the A30 matriline who

had all been so privileged to have shared in.

On the way home Dall's Porpoises were glimpsed briefly and then suddenly
appeared riding at the bow, crossing back and forth, their black and white
sleek bodies gliding along just below the water, clearly visible, their eyes
turned upwards and then with great gusto and exuberance, they would break
through the surface of the water, splashing delighted passengers as they
sped away before turning back again and again to bowride. It was a
fitting way to end a most spectacular day of viewing on the water.

One final surprise was yet to come with the sighting of some 25+ Stellar
Sea Lions who appeared to be swimming together and feeding, their enormous

hauled out Harbour Seals were also seen.

For some passengers on our tour today, it had only been in recent days that
they had ever seen or been on and near the ocean. It was indeed a powerful
and humbling experience, to acknowledge the ocean and some of its
inhabitants in such a beautiful awe-inspiring manner as they (and all of us) had

been able to so do today. We were all reminded that it is a most precious
part of our planet earth, indeed, our planet earth is immersed in Ocean.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, White-winged and Surf Scoters,
Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres++, Red-Necked Phalaropes,

California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, Pelagic Cormorants and Bald Eagles.

25 September, 2005

Passenger's aboard the SV Tuan this morning were fortunate to encounter both
Minke and Humpback Whales.

The Sail with the Whales tour was again bound for Blackfish Sound today and
as the vessel gently headed into the area, was greeted with a light mist
over the water. A detour through the north east island waterways of the
Archipelago was all the more scenic as the mist gently dissolved in the late
morning sunlight.

As the Tuan re-entered Blackfish Sound, a Minke Whale was seen as it dived
and surfaced north into Queen Charlotte Strait. It is always a treat to
encounter one of these shy members of the Baleen Whale family, and guests
cheered at the first whale sightings of the day.

A short time later, a cloud of moisture was sighted in the distance rising
high into the air, followed by not one, but two more plumes of 'blow'.
Three Humpback Whales, two adults and one thought to be a juvenile, were
encountered as they leisurely traveled north.
Much to the pleasure of both crew and passengers, one of the three whales
put on a performance worthy of a feature in a wildlife documentary. A full
body breach out of the water was seen - a particular treat to witness -
followed by numerous dramatic tail slaps.
The two Humpbacks nearby, though more sedate, did not fail to impress either
giving wonderful displays of their tail flukes to passengers as they watched
with cameras poised.

Several more minutes were spent in quiet awe of these magnificent giants
before embarking homeward into the wall of mist which had blanketed
Blackfish Sound in the meantime.

It was a wonderful morning on the water on this beautiful almost-autumnal
sunny day.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Dall's Porpoises, Western Grebe, Rhinoceros Auklets, Great
Blue Herons, Common Murres, California, Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls,
and Bald Eagles.

Today's Sail with the Whales tour headed north into Blackfish Sound this
morning, and shortly after departure, was able to set it's main sail in the
light wind conditions experienced.

Before too long, a cloud of moisture rose from the water's surface,
accompanied by wafts of fishy odor reaching the vessel downwind. The
glistening grey skin of a Humpback Whale traveling near the sailboat
provided great photographic opportunities.

Several minutes were spent enjoying the majesty of this creature which,
although was likely just a juvenile, would have been almost as long as the
SV Tuan.

A 'herring ball' - a flurry of diving seabirds causing large numbers of
herring to rise to the waters surface, enabling other birds such as seagulls
to get their fill also - was seen near by. The Humpback Whale traveled
towards the fish ball, and may have briefly dined on the large numbers of
herring present, but certainly it's arrival unsettled the birds causing most
of them to take flight.

The Tuan slowly departed the area soon after, leaving the young Whale to
continue on it's way. A scenic route through some of the north east island waterways of the
Archipelago was taken and some of the rarer species of Porpoise - the Harbor
Porpoise - were encountered.

As the vessel emerged back into Blackfish Sound, another cetacean was
sighted and again was accompanied by the drifting of a distinctive smell in
the breeze. The encounter with this Minke Whale was a special one as there
have been few recent sightings of this type of whale in this area and they
are typically shy and elusive.

A tour through the tranquil Plumper and Pearse Island groups on the
homeward journey provided an opportunity to further capture the striking
beauty of this area on film.

Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pelagic Cormorants, Great
Blue Herons, Common Murres, Belted Kingfishers, California, Ring-Billed,
Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

21 September, 2005
Dense fog made spectacular Orca encounters even more magical!

Despite the dense fog which remained for much of today's Sail with the
Whales tour, the trip evolved into an especially memorable few hours.
Reports of Orcas had the tour headed east in Johnstone Strait. As the
vessel slowed nearing it's destination point, the shroud of fog had guests
taken by surprise when Orcas suddenly emerged from the greyness beside the
boat. Part of the I15 matriline, a large family headed by their 53 year old
mother, who is also a grandmother and great grandmother, were encountered as
they traveled west.

The members of this sub-group of the I15 family seen were predominantly
females and their calves. A brand new calf, still tinged yellow with
jaundice, was again encountered today, closely flanked by it's mother on one
side, and other older females on the other. As crew and guests stood
mesmerized by this newest edition to the family swimming off the port side,
who at times was left for moments on the surface while it's mother fished,
one of the male Orcas surfaced just off the starboard side.

A superb repertoire of Orca behaviors were on display, such as pectoral and
tail slapping and spy hopping. Some relaxed rolling about over one another
was also witnessed, and one youngster was seen swimming along on it's side,
slapping it's pectoral fin playfully for some time. A chorus of delightful and

Although already fantastic, the Orca encounters came to a breathtaking
climax when one adult female and her calf swam towards the SV Tuan. The
pair came closer and closer until they both dived, and swam right beneath
the boat; the calf below and behind it's mother. The green water of
Johnstone Strait was so crystal clear that even the individual markings and
scratches around their saddle patches were able to be seen with clarity
through the water.

Other members of the I15 matriline, including I41 with his fully collapsed
dorsal fin, were encountered later in the tour as the SV Tuan reluctantly
began it's homeward journey.

Other sightings: Harbor Seals, Dall's Porpoises, Pacific White-sided
Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, California, Ring-Billed,
Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

20 September, 2005

A spectacular day of Orcas and Humpback Whales!
With perfect wind conditions on a crisp, late summer morning, the main sail
was set early on in today's tour and as the SV Tuan headed into Queen

numerous plumes of moisture and glistening streaks of black alerted guests to the

presence of Orcas, and in large numbers. Dorsal fins and blows were visible in almost
every direction.

Guests enjoyed a leisurely encounter with the adult females and calves from
the A12 matriline of Orcas. The small cluster of animals were observed
foraging and traveling around the vessel as it drifted. Some of the young
were typically playful, spy-hopping, splashing, slapping their pectoral fins
and tails, and happily rolling about. A33, the family's only adult male,
was presumed to be foraging further west where several large male dorsal

fins of the A36 trio of brothers were also seen in the distance.
A heart-warming chorus of vocals rang out over the hydrophone from the
beginning of the encounters until the end. As the A12 family continued
west, their A-Clan calls became more distant, until they were eventually
replaced by the distinctive and equally breathtaking G-Clan vocalizations
from the I15 group.

The I15 matriline were encountered in Blackfish Sound. One of the females
with a very new calf - it's jaundiced flesh still tinged orange - swam
right by the Tuan, as did several other members of this large and sociable
group. Again, the younger family members were observed playing around as
they eagerly waited while their mothers foraged. One adult female was seen
with a silver streak of salmon in it's mouth, which caused a commotion of
splashing as her offspring excitedly snatched at the meal.

Another superb opportunity to admire the beauty and grace of the Humpback
Whale pair, still in the area, arose on the homeward journey.
The scenic island waterway route home was a perfect conclusion to another
fantastic day on the water!

Other sightings: Harbor Seals, Dall's Porpoises, Pelagic Cormorants, Sooty
Shearwaters, Belted Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres,
Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls, and
Bald Eagles.

18 September, 2005

An Orca launching itself out of the water, spotted in the distance in Queen
Charlotte Strait, was the first beacon signaling the presence of Orcas in
the area today. Sure enough, as the horizon was scanned with binoculars, multiple dorsal
fins preceded by distinctive shots of 'blow' were seen in clusters across
much of the Strait.

The SV Tuan first encountered a group of seven Orcas, including a number of
young calves and one adult male. The group, part of the I15 matriline, were
initially seen in a tight resting formation slowly rising to the surface and
diving again in rhythm. After several minutes enjoying the tranquility of
the Orca's relaxed state beside the vessel, guests were delighted to then
see some surface activity as the Orcas began to awaken. Some of the younger
members of the group - of which there are several under five years in this
family - were observed repeatedly spy hopping for an above-water viewpoint.
One calf dived playfully around, probably awaiting it's mother as she
foraged for salmon.

A short time later, another cluster of five Orcas from the I15 matriline
were seen heading directly towards the SV Tuan as it drifted in the current.
One member of this group performed a dramatic breach out of the water
right off the stern of the sailboat; the rest swam gracefully by just a
short distance away. Throughout much of the breathtaking encounter,

The sailboat idled slowly along with the whales for some time as they
continued southeast before breaking off for a scenic detour through the
beautiful Plumper Island waterways. The vessel emerged back into Weynton
Passage in perfect timing to revisit the Orcas for one final view. Adult
male known as I41, with his distinctive fully collapsed dorsal fin, was seen
briefly before he and his family continued into Johnstone Strait.
As Devonshire Tea was served, guests were able to look off the stern and see
the Orcas fading slowly into the distance.

Other sightings: Harbor Seals, Dall's Porpoises, Pelagic Cormorants, Belted
Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
California, Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

17 September, 2005

The sounds of Orcas breaths carried a great distance over the beautifully
calm water conditions enjoyed on tour today. Johnstone Strait was again the

center of wildlife activity, and reminiscent of the previous several days, guests

on the Sail with the Whales tour were fortunate to encounter a number of families

The SV Tuan moved gently towards the plumes of moisture of Orca blows
visible in the distance along the Vancouver Island shoreline, then just
waited and drifted. With anticipation mounting, guests watched as dorsal
fin after dorsal fin slowly dived and surfaced towards the vessel.
The group of animals making up the I15 matriline of Orcas were moving
westward, foraging all around the sailboat as they went. Spectacular
vocals were heard from the outset and continued throughout the leisurely
encounter. The heart-warming sounds were all the more meaningful when it was
possible to isolate the creatures from whom the calls had originated by the
gradually increasing volume as they approached.

Wonderful sightings of one of the young calves were enjoyed when the
youngster 'porpoised' excitedly towards the boat, then splashed and dived
just beside the vessel as it waited for it's mother foraging for salmon.
A number of others from the I15 group also approached the Tuan as they
foraged, providing further superb photographic opportunities. At one stage,
two playful juveniles swam at high speed towards the boat, then dived right
beneath the stern. One of the pair rolled it's body to make eye contact
with the watching crew and guests from under the water. Another adult
female also swam underneath the Tuan, her striking markings able to be
captured on film through the water. Throughout the spectacular encounter
there were blows and dorsal fins erupting from the water's surface in all
directions and for as as far as the eye could see. In addition to the large
I15 group, at least two other famillies, including the A30 and G17
matrilines were present in the Strait.

Reluctantly, the time came to drift away, and even as the main sail was set
for the homeward journey, the glinting of the sun on Orcas fins and saddles
were still visible appearing and disappearing in beautiful rhythm to the
right, left and back of the vessel.

Other sightings: Harbor Seals, Pacific White-sided Dolphins (briefly
bow-riding), Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked
Phalaropes, Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls.

16 September, 2005

Johnstone Strait was alight with the glistening of blows from over 50
Orcas, a stunning visual effect created by calm conditions and the late
summer sun. The sparkles of moisture created by Orca exhalations were seen
soon after leaving Alder Bay dock on this morning's Sail with the Whales
tour.
The I11, G17, I15, A30 and A36 matrilines of Orcas were all present in the
Strait. As the Tuan approached the area and lowered it's hydrophone, a
spine-tingling symphony of vocals resounded. The beautiful calls of nearby
Orcas echoed off the sea wall, mingling with the sounds of distant Orcas.
Passengers watched as the Orcas foraged and socialized, family groups mixed
in with other families. Everywhere guests looked, Orcas were diving and
surfacing, many in close proximity to the vessel for much of the encounter.
Some foraged for salmon right around the sailboat. Two calves were observed
playing beside the boat, splashing, spy-hopping and rolling over one
another, as they waited for their mother who was foraging for salmon.
Soon after, a group of four Orcas, including one adult male, swam right
under the bow of the boat.

The lighting, the sheer numbers of Orcas in the Strait, and their relaxed
curiosity compelling them to approached the waiting SV Tuan, made it a
particularly special day. As a gentle wind picked up, the main and stay sails

were set and the vessel drifted from the area. As guests indulged in a delicious

Other sightings:
Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, A locally rare species of Tern, Belted
Kingfisher, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

14 September, 2005

Exciting Transient Orca encounters took place on both this morning and this
afternoon's Sail with the Whales tours.

Soon after indulging in the freshly -baked-on-board organic muffins, six of
the marine mammal hunting Transient Orcas were observed swimming into
Blackfish Sound. The SV Tuan slowly traveled alongside them, enjoying the
opportunity to see members of the more rarely encountered sub-species of
Orca.

The vessel stopped to set the stay sail as the Orcas took a long dive, and
when the group surfaced, they were right beside the boat. It was exciting
to catch a close glimpse of their distinctively pointed dorsal fins. The
Orcas continued going about their routine undisturbed - at this point they
were presumed to be foraging for food - as the Tuan idled with them under
the unobtrusive power of the wind in the sail.

On the homeward journey, guests were able to witness the hierachy of
nature's food chain in action when a small Harbor Seal (itself at the top of
a Transient Orca's menu) was dining enthusiastically on a large Salmon. A
Seagull was close at hand, awaiting nutritious scraps. Closer to home, a
Black Bear was also seen as it wandered on a nearby beach.

Guests on the afternoon tour were fortunate to also encounter the same group
of Transient Orcas, who at this time, were seen just a few minutes from the
dock near Alert Bay.

Upon arrival on the scene, with the skies clearing to expose the beautifully
warming late summer sun, passenger's witnessed the Transient Orcas chasing a
Harbor Porpoise. As the afternoon progressed, fantastic photographic
opportunities arose when the Orcas began demonstrating spectacular surface
activity, elevating their upper bodies out of the water for an above-water
view (spy-hopping). Guests observed a flurry of splashing and tail slaps in
the distance, likely an indicator of further hunting behavior. Soon after,
four impressive full-body breaches were seen close by as a grand finale to
the Transient Orca drama encountered on tour.

With wildlife viewing appetites fully sated, the main sail was erected, and
after a delicious Devonshire Tea, a brisk sail home began.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, Surf and White-winged Scoters, Hooded
Mergansers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

13 September, 2005

A wonderful chorus of Orca vocals accompanied today's hard-to-beat Orca
viewing. Passengers touring with Seasmoke this morning were treated to spectacular
sightings of the large I15 matriline of Orcas. The group, encountered in
Johnstone Strait, were spread across the water as they leisurely foraged
for salmon. For much of the viewing there were Orcas visible all around the
vessel.

Particularly memorable sightings of some of the group's females and their
young calves were enjoyed when they swam towards the SV Tuan. This provided
a spectacular opportunity for the photographically-inclined guests, with the
dramatic spectrum of greens of the Vancouver Island shoreline as a backdrop.
The rest of the passenger's delighted in just absorbing the beauty of the
moment as the delightful harmony of Orca vocals continued throughout the
encounter over the hydrophone. The young calves displayed their playful
natures with some surface activity; spy hopping, tail slapping and some very
relaxed rolling about was observed. As the SV Tuan slowly meandered west,

more of the I15 group were able to be observed along the Hanson Island shoreline.

A pass through the picturesque Plumper Island group provided a well-timed
opportunity to load more film just in time for a Humpback Whale encounter.
Upon emerging out of the island waterways, guests were almost immediately
greeted with the trademark fluke display in the distance. After a few
minutes it surfaced again, this time very near the vessel. As passengers
looked on in awe, the only sounds that could be heard were the echoey rush
of air out of the Humpback's lungs and the clicking of cameras. A second
Humpback Whale surfaced soon after, completing the mother and calf pair.
The two slowly dived and surfaced towards one another and eventually
continued on their journey together.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, Rhinoceros Auklets,
Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and
Bald Eagles.

12 September 2005

Breathtaking Orcas and exuberant Porpoises...
Despite the dense early morning fog, this morning's Sail with the Whales
tour evolved into a particularly magnificent wildlife experience.
Cracroft Point - one of the landmarks in the famous Johnstone Strait area -
was a hive of Orca activity this morning. Passengers aboard the SV Tuan
encountered three families of Orcas today as they foraged in the tide
flooding through Blackney Passage. The I15, A30 and A12 matrilines groups
seen today have been among the most commonly encountered in the area this
summer.

The I15 group in particular has gained a reputation for being one of the
most social around whale watching vessels. These Orcas again demonstrated
their typical relaxed but somewhat curious natures when they were observed
foraging all around and close to the SV Tuan as it sat drifting. A
beautiful symphony of A and G-Clan vocals resounded through the mist during
much of the encounter, making the visual display even more breathtaking.
As the Tuan departed the area, it played host to an energetic group of
Dall's Porpoises diving and surfacing in the vessel's bow wave for a
distance of two or three miles. It was an exciting finale to a superb
wildlife viewing trip.

The fog lifted on the homeward journey, leaving only a dusting of mist to
enhance the already picturesque Plumper Island waterways route.

Other sightings:
Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers,
Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres+++, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed and
Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

10 September 2005

Humpback Whales were the stars of today's Sail with the Whales tour.
The first exciting encounter took place in Weynton Passage; the tell-tale
plumes of moisture spouting high in the air alerting passengers to it's
presence.

Humpback Whales, with their typical 'fluking' behavior - flicking up their
tale just prior to a deep dive - are always impressive to observe, and this
individual was no exception. Guests aboard the SV Tuan were treated to
repeated opportunities to capture this creature on camera as it slowly dived
and surfaced around the vessel. A particularly spectacular moment was
enjoyed when it surfaced right beside the boat, having swum right beneath
the vessel. Such a close vantage point gave a striking sense of it's
enormous size.

A second Humpback - likely a juvenile, and perhaps an offspring of the first
whale who is gradually separating from her - was observed a few minutes
later. A further close encounter was experienced as this whale slowly
traveled alongside the SV Tuan.

Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Dall's Porpoises and some unusual migratory
sea birds, including the recently arrived Sooty Shearwaters, were also
observed on tour reflecting the rich diversity of life that these waters
support. The beautiful Pearse Island waterways route - all the more scenic in the
late summer sunshine - was taken for the homeward journey.

Other sightings:
Stellar Sea Lions, Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, Sooty
Shearwaters, Surf Scoters, Harlequin Ducks, Belted Kingfishers, Rhinoceros
Auklets, Common Murres+++, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed, Herring and
Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and a newly fledged Eaglet).

8 September 2005

Acrobatic Pacific White-sided Dolphins were the first cetaceans to be
encountered on this morning's sailing and motor cruise tours. A frenzy of
around 100 feeding Dolphins were seen in Johnstone Strait. Initially the
group were intent on getting their share of fish (probably Pilchard), but by
the time the MV Cetacea arrived on the scene, the Dolphins were playful and
acrobatic, leaping several feet into the air and cartwheeling back into the
water. As the motor vessel slowly left the area, the exuberant creatures
followed behind, continuing their acrobatic displays in the boat's stern
waves.

The A12 matriline of Orcas - a group of nine Orcas led by their 54 year old
matriarch and including three young calves - were encountered by both tour
groups. Passengers aboard the SV Tuan enjoyed their Orca encounter under
the gentle power of the wind in the stay sail at Cracroft Point and
Blackfish Sound, moving quietly with the animals as they traveled further
west.

Guests on the Tuan were treated to a breathtaking sighting of A34 with all
her five offspring plus her daughter's own new calf, when the seven swam
right off the bow of the vessel. Meanwhile, A33, the group's eldest male,
foraged nearby off the stern.

For those aboard the MV Cetacea, their perfect photographic moment came when
A33 foraged for salmon right beside the boat as it sat idle. It was a
spectacular opportunity to appreciate the full size of these creatures.

Both tours ended an immensely satisfying day of wildlife viewing by taking
the scenic island route home.

Other sightings::
Harbor Seals, Great Blue Herons, Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers,
Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed,
Herring and Mew Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and a newly fledged Eaglet).

This morning's Sail with the Whales tour fell on one of those particularly
special days when several pods of Orcas are present in the area at one time.

Johnstone Strait was the center of attention for the initial part of the
tour, with the I15, G17 and A30 matrilines encountered in that body of
water. The three family units - around 35 whales altogether - were
initially observed grouped close together, relaxed and resting. Some
surface activity, such as spy hopping, was seen which is always a delight to
observe. They then began to travel slowly east in the direction of the
Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.

After a leisurely encounter with these groups, the SV Tuan took a detour
under both power and sail through the beautiful island waterways. Guests
were fortunate to then see the I11 and A12 matrilines as they traveled in
Blackfish Sound, on their way to meet the other members of the A and G clans
of Orcas.

Unexpectedly, the sail boat was the first vessel yesterday to encounter and
identify a group of seven Transient Orcas (the marine mammal eating
sub-species), which included female T2 who had been seen on tour the day
before. Upon arrival on the scene, the seven were observed to hunt and devour one
unlucky Harbor Seal, although this was conducted with typical Transient Orca
speed and discretion. The presence of these seven bought the total number of Orcas observed on
tour to an impressive 61.

The beautiful late summer sun and light wind conditions coupled with the
brilliant Orca encounters made for a fantastic tour.

Other sightings:
Great Blue Herons, Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Auklets,
Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed, Herring and Mew Gulls,
and Bald Eagles.

Today's Sail with the Whales tour took place under beautiful late summer
skies; weather that was a welcome reprieve from fast approaching Fall.

Passenger's were fortunate to encounter one member of the Transient (marine
mammal-eating) Orca population, a female known as 'T2'. Shortly prior to
the tour commencing she had been in the presence of two other Transient
Orcas, with whom she had been indulging in a lot of vocalizing, something
that is rare amongst the Transient community. The SV Tuan encountered T2 in
Johnstone Strait, and observed her for some time. Although it was
interesting just to watch her - she gave guests a spectacular breaching
display - it was even more fascinating to observe her while reflecting on
the history of her presence here in the Broughton Archipelago.

T2, is around 55 years of age, and was one of five Orcas (including two who
were presumed to be T2's offspring) who were captured in 1970 for live
display. T2, and her son (the other offspring had been taken to an
aquarium and had died shortly after) were kept in a sea pen for several
months. They had refused the unfamiliar food they had been offered for
several weeks before finally succumbing and eating the salmon and herring
given. A dramatic end to their captivity came months later, when an
unknown person sabotaged the sea pen. This gave the Orcas an escape route
back to the oceans they once called home. T2 has become one of the most
regularly encountered Transient Orcas since that time.

As T2 began to travel west today, the SV Tuan left her to continue on her
way, and then opted for the scenic island waterway route home, under full
sail for much of the journey.

Other sightings:
Great Blue Herons, Double-crested Cormorants, Black Turnstones, Rhinoceros
Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ring-Billed and Mew Gulls,
and Bald Eagles.

Superb Orca encounters were enjoyed by passengers aboard the Sail with the
Whales tour this morning.

The Orcas, seen shortly after departure at Vancouver Island's Blinkhorn
Peninsula, were found in a pocket of the Strait free from the shroud of
morning fog.

Superb A-Clan vocals from the A30 matriline of Orcas were heard from the
outset of the encounter and continued for much of the tour. The group, led
by their 58 year old matriach and including three young calves were observed
leisurely foraging upon arrival in the area. The SV Tuan motored along
beside the group, with the mist clearing as they went. When the group
slowed to continue foraging they were spread all around the vessel,
providing opportunity for spectacular viewing. The beautiful chorus of
vocalizations continued to accompany the stunning visual display.
The I15 matriline of Orcas were also in the area, but further east in the
Strait. One of it's group, I41, with his distinctive collapsed dorsal fin
(which, unfortunately, is likely to be an ominous reflection of his health
status), was observed a few miles from his own family foraging near the A30
group.

Dall's Porpoises and Harbor Seals were observed on the homeward journey,
ending an immensely satisfying tour.

Other sightings:
Harlequin Ducks, Great Blue Herons, Spotted Sandpipers, White-winged and
Surf Scoters, Pacific Loons, Black Oystercatchers, Rhinoceros Auklets,
Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California,
Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Beautiful Orca sights and sounds...

Two Black Bears, spotted along the Vancouver Island shoreline, were again
the perfect wildlife viewing appetizer this morning.

Further east in Johnstone Strait lay the A30 matriline of Orcas, the stars
of today's Motor Cruise and Sail with the Whales tours. The group of eight
- including A50s new calf - spent much of the day at Cracroft Point and
their relaxed foraging made for wonderful sightings for both tours.

The MV Cetacea's passengers were treated to the family foraging all around
their vessel for most of the tour. They had particularly memorable
encounters with adult male A38 as he foraged for salmon right off the boat's
bow. One of the females, A50 and the youngest of her two calves approached
the Cetacea and swam right beneath it. Two Orcas were observed spy hopping
right off the bow. Spectacular A-Clan vocals were enjoyed throughout the
encounter.

When the SV Tuan arrived on the scene, the family group were spread across
much of the Strait; the males chasing salmon mid-Strait leaving the females
and young to corral fish along the West Cracroft Island shoreline. Initially
only intermittent vocals were able to be heard. Beautiful clear
vocalizations however, which became increasingly louder, resounded over the
hydrophone when the matriach, her adult daughters and their three calves,
swam towards the boat. It was breathtaking to view them leisurely angling
across the Strait just off the port side, while also hearing their wonderful
chatter as they passed. Another memorable moment took place when adult male
A38 dived and surfaced just a few meters off the stern; the close view was a
great opportunity to fully appreciate the size and power of these intriguing
creatures.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises ('porpoising' amongst the Orcas), Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor
Seals, Fork-Tailed Storm Petrel, Harlequin Duck, Great Blue Heron, Western
Sandpiper, White-winged and Surf Scoters, Black Turnstones, Belted
Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets,
Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls,
and Bald Eagles.

A Black Bear mother and cub pair...seen on a beach soon after departure
provided a grand introduction to wildlife, 'Broughton Archipelago-style' for
guests aboard the SV Tuan today. After stopping to observe as the mother
casually foraged then headed into the forest with her young cub bounding
along at her heels, the vessel continued on it's way.

The I15 matriline of Orcas were observed in Johnstone Strait, and some
wonderful leisurely sightings were enjoyed over the course of the encounter.
The large family group were spread across much of the Strait as they
headed west. Passenger's particularly enjoyed observing a number of the
females as they swam close to shore and playfully dived amongst kelp beds
on the Hanson Island shoreline. A beautiful choir of G-Clan calls,
harmonized with some vocals from the nearby A30 matriline of Orcas were
heard throughout the encounter. After several minutes of relaxed behavior,
the Orcas abruptly turned and at a vigorous speed headed westbound, and
crossed the Strait to continue along the Vancouver Island shoreline. With
weather conditions permitting, the mainsail was set, and the remainder of
the Orca encounter took place with only the gentle rustle of the wind in the
canvas and the quiet splashing of the water against the hull. Clearly
enjoying this tranquility, a few members of the I15 family approached the
vessel as it drifted. One juvenile swam right beneath the boat, it's
striking black and white form visible as it dove. This was the spectacular
climax of the encounter, and a fitting point at which to embark on the
homeward journey.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Great Blue Heron, Red-necked Grebe,
Pacific Loons, Surf Scoters, Black Turnstones, Sandpipers, Rhinoceros
Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagle.

August 31, 2005

Unrivaled encounters... Some of today's Orca encounters fall into the

The SV Tuan set out in the morning with reports of Orcas in all quadrants.
Before morning tea was even served, passengers were observing two Orcas in
the distance. After a closer look it was confirmed that the male and female
travel partners were in fact Transient Orcas. No sooner had the
identifying glimpse been made when a flurry of splashing indicated that the
two Orcas were in hot pursuit of an unlucky Porpoise. It was (fortunately)
a very quick chase which once completed, had them positioned beside the SV
Tuan. After one had taken an above-water look (spyhopping), they then began
to head to the east and guests were hearing further Orca blows to the west.
Soon after, the vessel was in the unusual situation of having Transient
Killer Whales to the starboard side and Resident Orcas to the port side.
They passed very silently within a mile or so of each other as the SV Tuan
sat drifting between them.

The orcas were identified as the I15 pod of residents and they eventually began to

forage for salmon. After some beautiful viewing the main and stay sail were set and

moving quietly with the Orcas while being able to hear their blows and vocals made

While indulging in Devonshire Tea on the homeward journey, guests were
treated to bow riding Dall's Porpoises.

Passengers aboard the MV Cetacea also enjoyed spectacular encounters with
the A30 pod of Resident Orcas, soon after leaving the dock. The chorus of
vocals created by the eight whales coupled with their relaxed behavior and
spy-hopping made for breathtaking viewing. The huge adult male known as A38
was observed foraging all around the vessel and was soon followed by all the
females and their calves and A39. Throughout the day, large numbers of
birds were observed feeding off Herring balls.

The scenic route home was taken providing the chance to enjoy the narrow and
scenic island passages that make up the famous Broughton Archipelago. A
great end to a great day.

Other sightings:
Harbor Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Great Blue Heron, Migrating Canada Geese,
Belted Kingfishers, Surf Scoters, Pacific Loon, Black Turnstones,
Sandpipers, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked
Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald
Eagles.

August 30, 2005

Orcas in the mist...
A spectacular Orca encounter took place in tranquil Johnstone Strait today,
amidst a surreal blanket of fog.

Passengers aboard the MV Cetacea enjoyed breathtaking viewings of the I15
pod as they traveled west in Johnstone Strait. As the vessel sat drifting,
the pod could be seen spread across much of the width of the Strait. A
beautiful chorus of their unique G-Clan calls resounded over the hydrophone,
uniting them across the expanse of water. Several of the family swam right
beside the vessel as they continued west. A short time later, a second
perfect photographic opportunity was on offer when these individuals turned
back east, and again approached the waiting Cetacea. The dramatic Vancouver
Island shoreline and the dusting of mist still present above the water were
the perfect backdrop as the beautiful creatures dived and surfaced. One
curious I15 female was seen approaching a raft of kayakers. Once she was
within a few meters of the group she stopped and rested on the surface as if
enjoying the opportunity for a close eye-level look. A short time later,
the Orcas were again observed to make a direction change, this time to swim
north towards Cracroft Point. As the motor vessel slowly headed out of the
area and into Blackney Passage, I41 with his fully collapsed dorsal fin was
encountered.

The MV Cetacea continued on it's way, choosing the scenic island waterways
route home and guests enjoyed one final look back at the graceful creatures
in the distance with their delicate plumes of moisture rising then
dissolving beautifully into the mist.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Belted Kingfishers, Rhinoceros Auklets,
Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California,
Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 29, 2005

Bow riding Dall's Porpoises set the scene for what became another
spectacular whale watching tour this afternoon. Johnstone Strait, which has
been the center of wildlife activity for much of the season, was again the
backdrop for the encounters. Before the tour even departed, a group of five

Passenger's aboard the MV Cetacea were fortunate to view a Humpback Whale at
Cracroft Point on their way to seeing the Orcas. Although Humpback Whales can

sometimes be elusive despite their impressive size, today's guests were treated to

A short time later, passengers again had cameras poised for wildlife action.
This time, the A30 and I15 matrilines of Orcas were the co-operative
subjects as they traveled westbound in Johnstone Strait. The soundtrack to
accompany their beautiful diving and surfacing rhythm was their own awesome
symphony of vocalizations; a chorus of A and G Clan calls heard via the
hydrophone. The Orcas swam right by the vessel as it drifted, providing a
brilliant opportunity to closely observe (among others) I41 with his
distinctive collapsed dorsal fin. It was a poignant reminder of the
fragility of these seemingly invincible creatures, and of the responsibility
that lies on human shoulders to nurture the creatures that call our oceans
home.

A final chance to witness these awe-inspiring animals was given when the
westbound Orcas made an about turn and headed east, again swimming by the
waiting MV Cetacea and it's delighted passengers. The scenic island waterways

Other sightings:
Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 28, 2005

The unfolding of a wildlife documentary was witnessed by guests

their gracefulness under the water's surface. A beautiful symphony of vocalizations

The B pod of Orcas - seen only on a handful of occasions this season -
followed a distance behind the rest. It was beautiful to view them as they
swam in their tight group formation. A very young, still jaundiced, calf
was present. As the resident Orcas continued on, a flurry of splashing and
diving was visible in the distance in Blackfish Sound. Two Pacific
White-sided Dolphins were seen swimming by at top speed. It turned out that
the splashes were caused by a group of the marine mammal predators,
transient Orcas, in hot pursuit of a Minke Whale.

The action was followed across a distance of some 7 miles; the Minke
swimming for it's life, and a few hundred meters behind, three 'porpoising'
transient Orcas. Other transients were also reported to be joining the
chase from different directions in the Strait. Although the Minke slowed at
one stage and appeared to be tiring, it found another burst of energy.
Eventually the transients ended the pursuit, and streaks of wake were
visible on the horizon as the Minke continued safely northwest. It was a
dramatic scene of two creatures following their natural instincts for
survival, one as predator and the other it's potential prey.
A breathtaking conclusion to an unforgettable tour.

Other sightings:
Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 27, 2005

It was another memorable day on the water and guests were particularly
fortunate to experience one of those exciting days when more than one pod of
Orcas comes together.

Johnstone Strait was once again the centre of wildlife activity and present
within that hub were the I15 and A30 matrilines of Orcas. Both are family
groups that have been encountered a great deal throughout this summer
season, and although they are part of two separate clans with different
'dialects', have been viewed together on a number of occasions. Some of the
males of the A30 pod have recently been observed paying particular
attention to the females of the large and sociable I15 matriline.

Upon arrival in the area, guests aboard the SV Tuan observed the two groups
as they traveled and foraged together in the Strait. Some spectacular
sightings were able to be captured on film. Although today's weather was a

slight hiccup in the wave of lovely late summer weather that has been experienced,

conditions were right for sailing and passengers had the particular treat of being

Another of the magical tour moments took place when the sailboat played host
to a number of Pacific White-sided Dolphins riding the bow wave and while
the cetacean fans were certainly satisfied with today's wildlife viewing
opportunities, bird enthusiasts would also have delighted in the diverse
range of bird life on display in these rich waters.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Surf Scoters, Common Murres, Marbled
Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and
Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

There is never a dull moment spent with the Orcas and today was one of
those particularly special occasions where a number of matrilines came
together for socializing... and well, more serious business!

Johnstone Strait with it's dramatic shoreline, was again the hot spot for
wildlife viewing today. Excitement mounted for guests aboard the morning SV
Tuan tour when they were able to see the Orcas in the distance and hear
their faint calls via the hydrophone. The vocals became louder and louder
and the Orcas closer and closer. Eventually, with baited breath, passengers
watched as around twenty dived and surfaced in their graceful rhythm beside
the boat. Three swam right beneath the vessel as it drifted. The I15 pod
of Orcas were present, and interspersed amongst the females, already giving
some cause for suspicion, were the three A36 brothers. If there was ever
any doubt regarding the intention of these three males, it was laid to rest
when they were observed engaging in intimate behavior with a few of the I15
females by those aboard both the afternoon tours.

In addition to this rarely seen display, passengers aboard the motor cruise
were treated to some spectacular encounters as the two groups (who were
later joined by the third matriline, the A30's) foraged and socialized along
the Hanson Island shoreline. Several approached the boat providing some
stunning photographic opportunities which were made all the more memorable
by the wonderful A and G-Clan vocalizations that accompanied the magnificent
viewings.

Leaving the family groups to continue their mingling, the MV Cetacea
motored into the southeastern end of Queen Charlotte Strait, where a
Humpback Whale was encountered. Although it was surprisingly elusive today
for such a large mammal, guests were able to appreciate the majesty of these
creatures as it displayed it's beautiful flukes in typical Humpback fashion.

Meanwhile, the SV Tuan's wonderful Orca encounter came to perfect conclusion
when the Orcas continued eastward and entered the Robson Bight Ecological
Reserve. From the boundary of the reserve, passenger's were able to see the
Orcas enjoying the opportunity to rub on the smooth gravel beach of
Vancouver Island, and the sound of them rubbing across the gravel was also
audible. Although every tour is uniquely memorable, today's guests were treated to
spectacular and rare window-on-the-wild moments.

Other sightings:
Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals (including a
pup which swam close to the SV Tuan), Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted
Kingfishers, Surf Scoters, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked
Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald
Eagles.

August 25, 2005

The Sail with the Whales tour evolved into one of the most spectacular.

It began this morning with the sighting of a large Black Bear foraging along
the shoreline, and although the presence of the dense fog made for
completely magical wildlife encounters, the afternoon tours - when much of
the fog had cleared - were also spectacular.

Although aware of the presence of Orcas on the radar screen this morning in
Johnstone Strait, all were taken by surprise when Orcas continued to surface
unexpectedly around the SV Tuan. Their encounter was with the I15 pod, a
large group who have been the stars of numerous spectacular encounters of
late. Both Pacific White-sided Dolphins and Dall's Porpoises were also in
the vicinity as the Orcas foraged for salmon. Some Porpoises - visible just
under the surface of the water - were particularly playful with the Orcas as
they surfaced and dived close by the vessel.

Enjoying a spot for lunch where the sun had managed to penetrate the mist,
passengers had front row seats to observe the Orcas forage right by the idle
sailboat. A few minutes later, almost out of nowhere, a group of a dozen or
so Orcas formed a large resting formation, and again drifted right by the
vessel just on the water's surface. It was a beautiful picture of
tranquility and all the more intimate in the absence of other boat traffic
and with the shroud of mist as a backdrop.

Soon after the midday stop, with guests warmed by both the hot soup and the
wonderful lunchtime encounters, the SV Tuan continued on it's way and hosted
a group of bow riding Dall's Porpoises. Crew then erected the mainsail and
drifted toward the large group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins visible in
the distance. A number of members of the I15 were present among them; this
time it was the Dolphins diving and darting in the Orcas' paths.

The sailboat continued into Blackfish Sound, and there encountered a mother
and calf pair of Humpback Whales. With their magnificent flukes on glorious
display, Humpbacks never fail to draw a delighted sigh from passengers.
This was a treat as it has been some time since Humpbacks have graced tour
guests with their presence and particularly special that this pair
approached the SV Tuan so closely. A grand finale to a memorable all day

The MV Cetacea too experienced some spectacular cetacean encounters;
Picture-postcard views of the I15 pod of Orcas as they traveled east in
Johnstone Strait; Many bow riding Pacific White-sided Dolphins; Dall's
Porpoises; and arguably perhaps the most spectacular of them all, wonderful
moments enjoying the Humpback Whale and her calf.

Other sightings:
Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Surf Scoters, Common Murres, Marbled
Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and
Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 24, 2005

The beautiful weather and magnificent wildlife encounters continue.
Soon after leaving the dock this morning the SV Tuan was targeted by a group
of playful Dall's Porpoises riding the bow wave. Not long after, guests
were treated to some awe-inspiring moments with the large and sociable I15
pod of Orcas. The group were heard before being seen; their initially
distant calls - picked up by hydrophone - became louder and louder as they
approached. They continued traveling along the shoreline toward the
vessel, foraging for the salmon that could be seen leaping out of the
water. The anticipation came to a crescendo when the family group swam by
the boat in single file.

A large group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were visible in the distance
so the sail boat meandered towards them. Within seconds they were all around
the Tuan, looking up at the excited guests as they swam under the boat and
leaped through the air. It was a fantastic encounter that led the boat
right back towards where the lead group of Orcas were foraging. Being unable
to resist, the boat stopped for one final glimpse just as I43 slowly swam
by, his dorsal fin glistening in the rays of the most beautiful light of the
day.

The MV Cetacea too experienced some picture-postcard sightings of the I15
pod - a group seen each day for several consecutive days now. Racing
Pacific White-sided Dolphins were the beacon indicating there were Orcas in
the area, though when the vessel stopped, passengers and crew were taken by
surprise to see I41, with this distinctive collapsed dorsal fin, so near.
Following him were several other family members. All appeared very relaxed;
at one point a few were observed in a resting formation just on the water's
surface. Guests were fortunate to have several close encounters when the
Orcas began foraging, at times approaching and even swimming right beneath
the boat before they all turned and headed back towards the east.
Occasional delightful vocalizations were heard. Dolphins were seen in large
numbers on the homeward journey, with a few enjoying a brief bow ride.

Other sightings:
Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Harlequin Ducks, Surf Scoters,
Western Sandpipers, Black Turnstones, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets,
Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed
and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Sailing with the whales... Guests aboard the SV Tuan were treated to both a
beautiful sunny day and great wildlife encounters.

Dramatic Johnstone Strait was the first port of call for the Sail with the
Whales tour, and there passengers experienced wonderful sightings of the A36
pod of Orcas. This pod consists of only three males, and is known
affectionately as "The Three Brothers". They lost their mother several
years ago, and have loyally continued to travel together, sometimes also
with other 'A1' pods. Today the three boys - aged between around 41 and 23
- were observed foraging for salmon near the West Cracroft Island shoreline,
and as the vessel idled along with them under sail, more whales (the A30 and
I15 pods) were visible in the distance in the Robson Bight Ecological
Reserve. Wonderful A-Clan vocalizations were able to be heard throughout
the memorable encounter.

On the homeward journey, guests enjoyed a final cetacean encounter when the
vessel briefly played host to a group of Dall's Porpoises riding the bow
wave, as has been their habit over the last few weeks.

Other sightings:
Rhinoceros Auklets, Harlequin Ducks, Western Sandpipers, Black Turnstones,
Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 22, 2005

It was a sunny, flat calm day and guests aboard both the Sail with the
Whales and Motor Cruise tours were treated to some magnificent Orca viewing.
The I15 pod - one of the groups seen regularly in the area of late - were
encountered initially in Queen Charlotte Strait. Wonderful Orca sounds,
this time the unique G-Clan vocals, were heard via the underwater microphone
from the outset of the encounter. The fog began to drift in soon after, and
as the Orcas dived and surfaced towards the moving bank of mist, they swam
by the sailing vessel. Disappearing into the cloud, the vocals continued as
beautiful as ever, becoming louder after the group turned and swam back in
the direction of the waiting SV Tuan. The encounter came to a spectacular
climax when two of the majestic creatures swam right beneath the boat as
passengers watched from above. On the homeward journey the SV Tuan was host
to a number of Pacific White-sided Dolphins who were swimming both alongside
and on the bow wave of the boat; this phenomenon has been a regular
occurrence over the last few sailing and motor vessel tours. Some of the
Dolphins were observed rolling over and looking up at the passengers as they
traveled.

Johnstone Strait, with its dramatic mountainous and tree lined coastline,
was the backdrop for this afternoon's tours. The I15 pod of Orcas were
initially viewed in a resting formation. As the vessels sat some distance
away, observing this picture of tranquility from afar, the group slowly
veered off their original course to approach the boats. Soon after, the SV
Tuan and it's passengers were surrounded by Orcas as they slowly awoke.
Some swam underneath, and one was observed making an impressive spy hop just
feet from the guests and their poised cameras.

The vessels sat watching these awe-inspiring animals quietly for some time.
The beautiful G-Clan vocals continued - heard via hydrophone - making the
encounter a particularly memorable visual and auditory experience. The pod
slowly spread out and starting foraging around the boats before moving to
the east.

The Tuan's mainsail was erected and they sailed with the whales, watching
them resume their resting formation. The A30 pod of Orcas were visible in
the distance at this time, and they too were seen in a resting formation.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Lesser Yellow Legs, Western and Least
Sandpipers, Black Turnstones, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Surf
Scoters, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte,
Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 21, 2005

Sighting of a large black bear was a great note to start today's all-day
tour on. After admiring it as it foraged for food on a beach (and as the
kayakers also inhabiting the area hastily evacuated), the SV Tuan continued
on it's journey down Johnstone Strait.

The I15 pod of Orcas were the first cetaceans sighted today; they were
observed in a close-knit resting formation. It was a picture of tranquility
as they gently dived and surfaced in unison. With the light dusting of mist
over the water, it was a beautiful sight. The group continued on, swimming
past the boat and into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. While the
sailboat sat idle, and a deliciously warming and energy-replenishing hot
lunch was served, the I15 pod of Orcas returned from the Reserve. They were
joined by the A30 pod (who had also headed west after being inside the
reserve boundaries), and the A8 and A11 pods, both of whom had come from the
west. Incredible A & G-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone for much
of the encounter.

A number of Pacific White-Sided Dolphins - who seem to delight in chasing
Orcas - joined the congregation, swimming playfully under the SV Tuan. The
large gathering of Orcas then separated into small groups and the A30's
began to forage in the tide rips in Blackney Passage. As the Tuan continued
on it's way, the Orcas slowly faded into the distance, ending an immensely
satisfying day of wildlife viewing.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Surf
Scoters, Canada Geese (flying south), Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked
Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald
Eagles.

Orcas, Dall's Porpoises and Pacific White-sided Dolphins stole the show in
Johnstone Strait today!

Reports of Orcas had this morning's Sail with the Whales tour journey
towards the Robson Bight-Michael Bigg Ecological Reserve. With senses
heightened with the reduced visibility due to the shroud of morning fog on
the water, it was breathtaking to hear the sound of Orcas approaching.
Beautiful A-Clan vocalizations were audible via the underwater microphone
and soon after, the distinctive blows of Orca exhalations. Eventually the
graceful diving body of a male emerged through a fog bank and all the while,
stunning vocals continued to be heard.

A number of 'matrilines' were present in the Johnstone Strait area today.
The A30, A11 and A8 groups were all observed by those touring on the SV
Tuan. Guests enjoyed some wonderful encounters - moments enhanced by
viewing under full sail - as the whales foraged in the strait. At one
stage, the sailing vessel had groups of Pacific White-sided Dolphins swim
under the boat as guests observed the Orcas.

The setting for much of the afternoon motor cruise was also in Johnstone
Strait. The highlights of this tour were; a large group of Dall's Porpoises
leaping and diving in the bow waves for several minutes on the outward
journey and Pacific White-sided Dolphins following suit in the wake of the
vessel on the journey home. Guests were also delighted to encounter some of
the A-Clan Orcas as they headed west out of the Ecological Reserve. A
number of individuals (including a mother and new calf) were present. With
tree-lined Vancouver Island shoreline as the backdrop and some residual
light mist, the photographic opportunities were great. Seeing the beauty of
these creatures as they foraged and traveled, as well as hearing their
vocals made for a magnificent visual and auditory experience.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Stellar Sea Lions, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers,
Whimbrels, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked
Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald
Eagles.

Another day in Paradise aboard both the SV Tuan and the MV Cetacea.
The morning tour departed in a thick and mysterious fog with the layers
covering the water's surface like a blanket. Half an hour or so later
however, they cruised out of the fog bank and into the narrow fjord-like
Johnstone Strait. With dramatic mountains towering up on their starboard
side and smaller un-inhabitated islands on the portside, the SV Tuan
continued cruising east until reaching the boundary of the Robson Bight
Ecological Reserve. From there they were able to enjoy the eight Orcas that
make up the A30 pod who were resting nearby. As they approached, one spy
hopped to have a look back at them.

After leisurely cruising along a few hundred meters from the Orcas, they
suddenly awoke. The trailing hydrophone went from silent to booming,
echoing throughout the calm Strait their magnificent chatter. The whales
all then scattered and made their way back into the Ecological reserve and
the Tuan began it's homeward journey back to the west.

Guests on this afternoons motor cruise were treated to some memorable
encounters with the A30 pod. The group - including A50's brand new calf -
went by the vessel as they traveled west in Johnstone Strait. They
encountered the eldest male, A38, slightly later as he foraged around the
Cracroft Point area. The group then turned around, and when the MV Cetacea
crossed they Strait to view them on the Vancouver Island shoreline, the pod
traveled close by the vessel, providing further great photo opportunities

.
Passengers on the afternoon sailboat tour viewed the A30 pod from the
boundary of the Ecological Reserve. Those aboard the Tuan were fortunate to
have bow riding Dall's Porpoises on two occasions in the afternoon. They
also enjoyed a group of twenty or so active and aerial Pacific White-sided
Dolphins while under full sail.

Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pelagic Cormorant, Black Oystercatchers,
Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great
Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte, Ring-Billed and
Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

A photographic feast was enjoyed by guests aboard both the SV Tuan and the
MV Cetacea thanks to the wealth of wildlife encountered today.

This afternoon's wildlife story began with many Dall's Porpoises leaping and
diving the bow wave as the Cetacea cruised down Johnstone Strait. They
continued for some time, before suddenly disappearing, perhaps after sensing
the transient Orcas nearby in the Strait. It was a particular treat to
encounter the group of transient Orcas, the more rarely encountered
subspecies. Passenger's watched with baited breath as the foursome lunged
and vigorously dived. Some beautiful and seldom-heard vocalizations were
enjoyed via the hydrophone, perhaps as an indicator that their apparent
hunting attempts had been successful. Boisterous tail slapping and spy
hopping was also witnessed.

It isn't often that both transient and resident Orcas are encountered on one
tour, however today was one of those days. After switching course to head
out into Queen Charlotte Strait, the A36 pod of resident Orcas were
observed. Although two of the three brothers were visible some distance
away, close views of A37 were enjoyed as he playfully foraged and spy
hopped. Taking the scenic route home, Harbor Seals and Stellar Sea Lions
provided one final photographic opportunity.

Those touring on the SV Tuan experienced some special wildlife moments also.
They observed the I15 and A30 pods from the boundary of the Robson Bight
Ecological Reserve. Although some distance away, a procession of
spectacular breaches were visible. As the groups left the Reserve,
passengers experienced a close encounter when they swam right beside the
boat. A particularly intimate moment was shared with I41 when he veered
over to the sailboat, looking up at them from just under the water's
surface. This was a particularly poignant moment as it is thought that he -
with his fully bent dorsal fin and his tendency to trail behind his family -
is unwell and may not be seen next summer. Breathtaking A & G Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone throughout the encounter.

On the homeward journey, conditions were perfect for erecting the mainsail
making the final whale encounter - this time with the transient Orcas - all
the more memorable.

Other sightings:
Stellar Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Parasitic Jaegar,
Pelagic Cormorant, Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled
Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Bonaparte,
Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Within a few minutes of departing Alert Bay this morning the beautiful B pod
of Orcas were visible only a short distance away. The stop in Alder Bay to
collect more guests brought further excitement when a Black Bear was seen on
the beach as it foraged amongst the rocks for crabs and eels; all this and
the tour had not even started!

The SV Tuan took a scenic island passage shortcut taking them to the
vicinity where the Orcas were now resting. It was a beautiful sight to
watch them all travel along slowly together. Without warning after only a
few minutes with them they all surfaced right behind the vessel.
Immediately the hyrophone was dropped; not only could their unique
vocalizations be heard, but passengers were also treated to some curious
spyhopping. Two impressive breaches by one of the adult males also had
cameras clicking. For the next half an hour or so another one of the three
adult males in the pod rolled around on the surface slapping his tail and
pectoral fins while swimming along slowly with his sister and her calf.
It only got better as just before leaving three more breaches could
be observed in the distance. It was a spectacular trip.

On the afternoon tour, guests once again were able to witness some of the
most spectacular whale watching displays, but this time around, were
combined with the thrill of sailing with the whales as well. The sunshine
graced guests with it's presence also and with the Orcas still close to
Alert Bay there was ample time to appreciate the breathtaking encounter.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Ancient Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklets, White-winged and Surf
Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon
Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California,
Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Conditions were ideal for wildlife viewing and it was a day rich with
cetacean encounters. Large numbers of Orcas were encountered in Queen

In a similar manner to yesterday's Orca encounters, the SV Tuan was greeted
upon arrival in the area with two impressive breaches from one of the
whales. As also experienced yesterday, for the first few minutes there was
the almost overwhelming sense of Orcas surfacing almost anywhere passengers
looked. As the SV Tuan moved quietly along towards the A12 pod of whales,
the A35 pod were visible off to the port side, the C10 pod on the starboard
side, and B pod crossing the stern in the distance. It was thrilling to be
surrounded by around 25 of these beautiful creatures.

It was fascinating to observe that some members of the A12 pod (adult
females and calves) were themselves surrounded by Pacific White-sided
Dolphins. Although the Orca-Dolphin relationship is an interesting one with
the dolphins' apparent enjoyment of harassing the larger cetaceans, today
they seemed to be content just to swim beside one another harmoniously.

Passengers were treated to further cetacean encounters on the homeward
journey. Dall's Porpoises and their rarer cousins, the Harbor porpoises,
were both seen this afternoon. Newborn Harbor Porpoise calves were also
noted; a satisfying reflection of nature's perpetual forces at work, and a
poetic conclusion to another great day on the water.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Black Oystercatchers, Rhinoceros Auklets, White-winged
Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon
Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California,
Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

August 15, 2005

Relaxing with the Orcas
It was a relaxed and restful day for the A12 and A35 pods of Orcas, who
were observed by both the SV Tuan and the MV Cetacea in Queen Charlotte
Strait today.

Interestingly, although Orcas are known to sometimes venture up to a hundred
miles in a day, these individuals were content to spend an unusually large
portion of the day resting, and covering an unusually small area of water.

When first sighted today, they were seen spy-hopping and playfully rolling
around in kelp beds close to shore before gathering into a resting
formation. It was beautiful to hear the simultaneous blows as they slowly
drew together side to side to rest.

The first Orca encounter for guests touring on the MV Cetacea this afternoon
was the spectacular sight of the eldest male of the A12 pod launching
himself out of the water (breaching) twice. Impressive even when smaller or
younger calves engage in this behavior, it was positively breathtaking (and
is fairly uncommon) to witness an adult male doing this. At this point, the
whales were spread out, so we were able to view Orcas in almost all
directions. Some were swimming very close to the water's edge, perhaps
rubbing themselves on the smooth gravel shoreline. Several members of the
A35 pod approached the vessel before slowly continuing on their way along
the coastline. It was a great photographic moment as well as an opportunity
to view various whales' identifying nicks and markings which are often only
seen upon examination of photos later.

The whales eventually came together, and gathered into a tight-knit resting
formation where they remained for much of the afternoon. The final moments
with the Orcas for the Motor Cruise guests was of their resting line slowly
approaching them just meters off the stern. Passenger's continued watching
intently as the family dove right beneath the boat and continued slowly
traveling to the east, diving and breathing in wonderful rhythm.
Passengers on the sailboat also had the pleasure of seeing Harbor Porpoises
(including a calf) which are a less commonly seen member of the Porpoise
family in these waters.

The sound of an Orca's blow seems amplified when heard amidst dense fog, or
at least, remaining senses are heightened with the reduced visibility.
Although the SV Tuan was blanketed in cloud for most of the morning,
passengers enjoyed superb Orca encounters today.

After leaving dock, the sailboat headed to the north east side of Malcolm
Island. The first of our brilliant Orca encounters was with A12 and A33, 64
year old matriarch and her eldest son. The two were closely grouped and
were relaxed and resting upon our arrival. Guests observed this pair for
some time as they slowly moved to the east, stopping to play in a kelp bed
as they traveled.

As the mother and son slowly faded into the grayness, the
beautiful but distant vocalizations of the remaining members of the A12 pod
became audible on the hydrophone. Excitement levels rose as the vocals
heard via the underwater microphone became louder, and a few minutes later,
they began to be accompanied by the distinctive above-water rhythm of Orca
blows.

Eventually the group of seven slowly emerged out of the mist on our
starboard side. They too, appeared relaxed, and it was delightful to
observe them playing for some time amidst the kelp beds. Tail slapping,
pectoral slapping, and spy hopping behaviors were observed. Fantastic
photographic opportunities presented themselves when the seven leisurely
moved across our path just off our bow. Guests were able to get a clear
view of the newest member of the family, a calf only a few months old.
They made their way to the east, following almost the exact path that A12
and A33 had taken a few minutes earlier, and soon had disappeared altogether
into the fog.

Other sightings:
River Otters, Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingishers, Common
Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
Bonaparte, California, and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

With senses heightened by the shroud of fog that lay over much of the area this morning, today's
Orca encounters were spellbinding.

Thirty or so Orcas mingled in Johnstone Strait, and upon the arrival of the
SV Tuan at the scene, the A12, A36, A30 and A11 pods (and others) presented
in two large resting groups visible on the edge of a fog bank. It is always
moving to see them so relaxed and trusting in the presence of human
observers.

The creatures slowly faded into the grayness as the fog shifted around the
vessel, and for some time, they disappeared altogether. Guests waited with
baited breath until all of a sudden, out of the mist emerged Orcas right
beside the boat. Although their beautiful vocalizations were audible
through the boat's hull, the hydrophone was lowered to amplify this unique
underwater symphony.

Well known Springer was amongst the Orcas to be closely observed in the
Strait, and today - oblivious to any past or present attention she has
received - was good-naturedly tolerating the half dozen Pacific White-sided
Dolphins who were playing around her.

After these special encounters, the whales headed east into Robson Bight
Ecological Reserve, and the SV Tuan began to make it's leisurely return
journey. It stopped in a clearing for a few minutes, and again passenger's
enjoyed the anticipation of hearing approaching Orcas and waiting for the
visual. Guests enjoyed this final encounter with the A12 pod before they
regrouped in their resting formation. The Orcas eventually faded out of visibility but leaving firmly etched memories.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets,
Red-Necked Phalaropes, Hermann's, Bonaparte, California and Herring Gulls,
and Bald Eagles.

August 12, 2005

After the Orcas received much of the attention from whale-watchers
yesterday, the Humpback Whales came out in force today to make their
presence known.

It was one of those glassy calm mornings; perfect for eyeing the
distinctive plumes of moisture that escape from a Humpback Whale's lungs.
It was in Blackfish Sound that the SV Tuan encountered two of these majestic
beasts, a mother and calf pair. Humpback Whales are usually photogenic with
their tendency to display their full tail every fourth or fifth dive, but
this pair gave passengers a breathtaking performance. Not only did they
give the photographically-inclined a visual feast to capture on film, but
their closeness meant that the sound of their breath was heard with clarity.
Even the aftermath of their exhalation was experienced as a distinctive
fishy musk lingering around the boat.

As has been typical of Humpback mother and calf encounters of late, the calf
today was the instigator of playful and curious activity. At one stage it
approached the SV Tuan before rejoining it's Mother for a deep dive. When
it next resurfaced however, it was right beside the sailboat, and actually
swam under it as guests gasped with delight. Once again it came up for
breath still in close proximity to the SV Tuan, this time giving a wonderful
fluke display worthy of a National Geographic centerfold. It's parting
gesture to the group was a whole body breach out of the water and repetitive
tail slaps accompanied with a log-roll and finally, waving his pectoral fin.

Guests aboard the MV Cetacea this afternoon were fortunate to have
encounters with four Humpback Whales today as the vessel traveled a scenic
off-the-beaten-track route. Two solo Humpbacks were seen - viewings made
all the more tranquil by the absence at times of any other boat traffic. A
mother and calf pair were also encountered and were perhaps the highlight
with their simultaneous diving and fluking.

Other sightings:
Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Black Oystercatchers, Western Sandpipers,
Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets,
Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte,
California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (including an
Eagle swooping on a Herring ball).

This morning's fog unexpectedly made for excellent wildlife viewing
conditions. The Orcas were very near to our departure ports and soon after
getting underway we were able to see the 'R' and 'W' pods slowly drifting
out of the moody patches of fog that lay scattered about. It was a sighting
that would be hard to forget as it consisted of over 35 whales resting and
slowly traveling altogether all surfacing at once and diving at once amidst
the morning mist. The sighting itself however was only half the experience
as the sound of their loud blows carried and amplified by the wet morning
air was entrancing.

The SV Tuan traveled alongside the whales for some time
before disappearing into the narrow passages between the small islands to
look at eagles and their nests, Harbor Seals, and Dall's Porpoises. Upon our
re-entry into the main passages and deeper water we joined up with the Orcas
once again for more spectacular viewing.

This afternoon's motor cruise was treated to not only the same fantastic
pods of Killer Whales but also to two Humpback Whales, hot sunshine and a
large number of Transient Orcas as well. The viewing of all the whales was
spectacular and guests and crew alike finished the trip still savoring their
experiences. Possibly the most excellent of all was coming across the
unexpected large group of 15+ Transients on the way home. These whales
altered course to swim right past the boat before they continued on into the
Strait to hunt a few of our unlucky Dall's Porpoise friends.

The R and W pods of resident Orcas are fairly uncommon in this area but to see not only
them but a very rare large group of transient Orcas all in the same day is
the kind of unpredictability that makes whale watching in this area so
intriguing. The summer's sightings so far continue to get better and more diverse with
every passing day.

Other sightings:
Harbor Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled
Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes,
Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and
an Eaglet on a nest).

This morning's tour was a very scenic one. The light misting over the water's surface in the earlier hours of the trip was soon replaced by warming sunshine and clear skies. As we cruised to the east in fjord-like Johnstone Strait we encountered many Dall's Porpoises and even a few uncommon sea birds. We eventually made our way to the boundary of the world famous Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and then beyond to have a closer look at the A12 pod of Orcas as they came out of the reserve. They seemed to be very relaxed as they gently glided through the glassy calm water. We had most members of the pod do exactly this just off our beam making exquisite vocalizations at they went.

Along the way home we had a brief look at a very rare Elephant Seal. Only one sighting is reported every two years or so in this area and today is the first so far this season.

Whilst out cruising this evening, three members of our staff delighted in seeing not only resident Orcas but transient Orcas also. Surprisingly enough, the two separate races of Orcas were in relatively close proximity to each other. As they watched T20 and others swim into the setting sun, the lighting was perfect to spot more whales up ahead. As it turned out these were the resident whales known as the R2 pod. They enjoyed their time with them before the sun set and the Orcas swam off into it's golden rays.

Harbor Seals, Parasitic Jaeger, Leach's Storm Petrel, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet on a nest).

It is not often that the Orcas follow any type of pattern but by chance their routine today followed a similiar route to yesterday and days previous. The nine whales in the A12 pod of Orcas were in a very relaxed and playful mood when we again encountered them in Johnstone Strait. The eldest male decided to slowly swim towards our vessel making beautiful vocalizations as he approached closer and closer. Meanwhile the rest of the Orcas were peacefully rolling in the kelp beds near the reefs. It was beautiful to watch the whales and realize that they too take time to enjoy certain special moments in their lives with their families. As the morning warmed up a light westerly breeze came up and it proved to be perfect for our mainsail. We sailed along quietly with the Orcas listening to their vocals on our hydrophone before cruising our scenic route home though the islands.

Passengers on this afternoon's tour aboard MV Cetacea were lucky to encounter two of the A12 pod of Orcas - the 64 year old matriach and her eldest son. The guests watched as the two proceeded to join the rest of their family in Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.

A Minke Whale sighted in Queen Charlotte Strait was the next stop for passengers aboard the motor cruise. The sight of this creature feeding amongst the dancing silver flashes of Herring was fascinating viewing.

Soon after, a Humpback Whale and her calf were sighted. With their spectacular fluking displays, Humpback sightings never fail to draw a sigh of delight from passengerss.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet on a nest).

Passengers aboard today's tours were treated not only to sightings of Orcas, Humpback Whales and other wildlife, but were also given an opportunity to observe some of the more rarely-seen scenes in the lives of those creatures with whom we share a wilderness.

The A12 pod were the stars of the day representing the Orcas, making appearances for all three tours departing today. The SV Tuan had particularly memorable encounters with this family of nine. The guests delighted in viewing spy hopping and breaching behaviors, and listening to their thrilling vocals on the hydrophone. Passengers continued watching intently with the vessel idle and drifting, as the family came closer and closer. Amazingly, four of the Orcas then took turns swimming beside the boat and turning on their side to look up at the breath-taken passengers. One made it's appearance with remnants of salmon still trailing from it's mouth. Although this scene was a rare spectacle, we have grown to be prepared to see unique and special sights in these rich waters almost every day.

One Humpback Whale was observed this morning and three this afternoon. These Whales are always a highlight for guests with their graceful movements and photogenic 'fluking' behaviors, particularly when viewed from the close range that these were at times today.

Another of today's memorable wildlife viewing experiences was observing a very rare Peregrine Falcon attempting to hunt a Kingfisher. A Bald Eagle was also witnessed swooping down to pluck a fish out of water in it's talons.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbor Seals, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets, Western Grebes, Belted Kingfishers, Western and Least Sandpipers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet on a nest)..

Our three excursions today were absolutely brilliant with perfect weather and great wildlife viewing opportunities. On this morning's tour aboard the SV Tuan we set off into Johnstone Strait with a northwest breeze and soon after our morning coffee and fresh baked muffins came across the A12 pod of Orcas. We sailed with the nine for sometime before they gathered together into a resting formation and made a slow turn to the east. It was a beautiful sight to see them surface and dive in unison in their typical resting fashion. The pod continued to the east and we headed on our way west after a wonderful and peaceful morning with them.

This afternoon's tours took the SV Tuan and MV Cetacea into the Queen Charlotte Strait. With a light breeze, warm sun, and only a touch more than a ripple on the water's surface we had optimal wildlife viewing conditions. Passenger's aboard the MV Cetacea enjoyed several bow riding Dall's Porpoises enroute and a short time later, encountered the A36 pod of Orcas. The three adult male brothers were a delight to view with their massive dorsal fins and prominent blows. They foraged for chinook salmon all around the two vessels making the odd high pitched vocalization. At one point two of the brothers had curious Dall's Porpoises swim alongside them, zigzagging playfully across their paths.

The SV Tuan sailed on to the north and by chance came across three speeding Minke Whales. It was a feeding frenzy the likes of which skipper and naturalist have never seen before. The Minke Whales were 'porpoising' through the water creating huge splashes as they went. They swam in circles together, moving from one school of herring to another before finally slowing down and disappearing altogether. As Minke Whales in this area are typically solitary, relaxed and fairly elusive, this was an outstanding lesson in the unpredictability of nature.

On the starboard tak home we passed the three Orcas once again and were pleasantly surprised when two Humpback Whales surfaced off the bow a few minutes later. We stopped to wait for them to surface again and when they did, they were very near to us providing one last outstanding photographic opportunity. It was a fitting way to end a day that so perfectly illustrated the intrigue and beauty of our wilderness.

Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets, Greater Yellow Legs, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Although known as "Home of the Killer Whale" for many years now, it is still always a treat when Orcas are travelling close to our home port of Alert Bay. This morning, soon after departing the dock we encountered the same nine Orcas that we had seen yesterday. When we stopped to deploy our hydrophone and put up our sail we were amazed at how vocal the pod was. The vocals became louder and louder as A55 and his younger sister A67 swam right past us in some great hurry to the west. We followed along for a while before spotting the elder members of the pod in the distance. With the gentle power of our stay sail we were able to cruise over for a closer look and listened to more wonderful A-Clan vocals. It proved to be a very relaxing way to enjoy our morning tea and muffins. We also had the pleasure of viewing many Dall's Porpoises as well as a Stellar Sea Lion in the area. On this afternoons trip we discovered that the Orcas had turned back, heading to the east in Johnstone Strait to the world famous ecological reserve at Robson Bight. The timing of our arrival near the boundary of the reserve was fortuitous as the Orcas then altered course and headed west towards us. They swam right by SV Tuan making just as many beautiful vocalizations as they had this morning. The light breeze was perfect for sailing and the lighting

provided wonderful photographic opportunities. Passengers enjoyed the Orcas and the warm sun for awhile longer before heading for home. On the homeward stretch we were lucky to view more Dall's Porpoises and guests enjoyed observing a particularly playful three who delighted in riding our bow wake for several minutes. From our vantage point on deck, we admired their striking black and white markings not unlike those of the Orca's. This encounter combined with the sun, sailing and freshly baked scones was a perfect way to end a delicious day.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Western and Least Sandpipers, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls and Bald Eagles.

Our tours today combined the pleasures of viewing both Orcas and Humpback Whales, and for guests aboard the SV Tuan the experience of sailing with both. This morning a pod of nine Orcas ranging in age from 64 to under a year were seen in Johnstone Strait. No sooner had we arrived on the scene when we had one unlucky salmon swim right under our boat followed by adult male Orca A33.

As we looked down into the water at the approaching whale we could see exactly what he was after as he and the salmon swam right underneath us. What a way to start a day that proved to be rich in wildlife encounters and memorable experiences. Next on our list of highlights we encountered the A12 pod of Orcas grouped together playing and resting on the surface while we were under full sail. As we idled quietly by the whales, they slowly swam toward us, spyhopping and rolling over one another along the way. We sailed awhile longer savoring the day and the sunshine before cruising into Blackfish Sound to encounter not one but four Humpback Whales. Along the way we viewed Dall's Porpoises with newborn calves, Stellar Sea Lions and nearly twenty Pacific White-sided Dolphins. Two of the Humpbacks (a mother and calf) were busy feeding and the other two, also a mother and calf pair - were more interested in playing. The calf was waving its pectoral fins, log-rolling and throwing itself out of the water in close proximity to MV Cetaca while the SV Tuan sailed nearby. All in all, today's encounters were of a unique kind that only a day on the water can provide. Simply stunning and full of magic!

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Western & Least Sanpipers, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Today's unbelievable wildlife viewing story began on the western boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. There, with the sun warming faces and fresh muffins warming tummies, the SV Tuan waited. Slowly, emerging from the horizon was evidence of what guests had come to see - Orca blows in unbelievable numbers! With perfect early morning lighting, guests poised their cameras and watched as the dramatic scenes unfolded. More than sixty creatures spilled out of the Reserve and into Johnstone Strait, traveling past the vessel. This was one of those unusual and unforgetable 'superpod' days, when several pods of Orcas come together. The SV Tuan idled slowly along, at times being totally surrounded by Orcas. At another stage, a pod of Orcas swam right alongside and under the vessel . Though still remaining with their own family members, pods were seen in larger social groups. At one time, a line of three or four pods abreast, was observed in a resting formation on the surface. After some time - and several rolls of film later - passengers aboard the Tuan left the Orcas behind and headed towards Blackfish Sound. Enroute a few dozen Pacific White-sided Dolphins were observed and under full sail a Minke Whale was also encountered, feeding on a herring ball. A Humpback Whale - an individual who is new to this area - was also a hit with passengers with it's impressive 'fluking'. Passengers aboard this afternoon and evening's motor cruises on the aptly named

MV 'Cetacea', delighted in their very similar wildlife viewings. They were also treated to observations of breaching , tail slapping and spyhopping; perhaps an indicator of the excitement expeienced by the Orcas themselves. All in all, a spectacular day for wildlife enthusiasts that began with dozens of Orcas emerging from the horizon and ending with Orcas drifting into the sunset.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet in a nest).

A light misting of beautiful sunlit fog greeted guests on tour this morning, warning of another stunning day ahead. With organic muffins that had been no more than five minutes between oven to stomach as fuel, passengers aboard this morning's tour were ready for some serious wildlife action. Today's cetacean story began in Johnstone Strait with the A12 pod of Orcas. This family - the most frequently encountered group this season - were doing what is often the most heart-warming of behaviours to observe; playing. Half breaches were seen, and all the while, intense vocalizations were audible via the hydrophone. This pod were enjoyed for some time, and after continuing on it's way, the SV Tuan played host to a number of bowriding Pacific White-sided Dolphins. In a further stroke of luck, passenger's had the opportunity to encounter a second pod of Orca, the A30 pod, as they foraged for salmon. One member of this family - perhaps capitalizing on the tendency for fish to attempt to hide next to the hull - foraged near to the vessel. This provided yet another breathtaking opportunity for those photographically-inclined guests. Passengers on this afternoon's motor cruise also delighted in their encounter with the A12 pod of Orcas, and again enjoyed the relaxed half-breaching activity taking place in the pod. Wonderful A-Clan vocals were also heard via the hydrophone. On the homeward journey this afternoon, the motor vessel fittingly named "Cetacea"- had a dozen or more Dall's Porpoises hitching a ride on the bow wave bringing another fantastic day to completion.

Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet in a nest).

The early morning patchy fog dispersed soon after departure to reval a beautiful day that combined great weather with fantastic marine wildlife viewing. The first port of call for this mornings tour was Weynton Passage, and here, through the light mist we encountered the A12 Pod of Orcas. The SV Tuan idled along with the family for quite some time, and guests quietly savoured the moments as the Orcas travelled east in Johnstone Strait undisturbed. With tree-lined Vancouver Island shoreline as the backdrop, and the residual light morning mist, the photographic opportunities were perfect. The same pod of Orcas were observed by both the motor and sailing vessels this afternoon , again in Johnstone Strait. Passenger's delighted in observing the full repertoire of Orca-antics, with tail slapping, breaching and spyhopping. One of the boats enjoyed a close encounter when one of the calves swam alongside the vessel. Wonderful A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophones, and and for SV Tuan, the opportunity to see and hear the Orcas amidst the quiet rippling of the wind in the main sail made the experience complete. Another of today's tour highlights was observing the drama of two Minke Whales feeding off a Herring ball. The sea was glistening with the silver frenzy of Herring as the whales arched their backs to lunge down and engulf the fish. Some of the Herring was literally leaping out of the whale's mouths. Opportunistic birds were also seen getting their fill of Herring - Eagles with talons full of fish - but at a cautious distance from their enormous mouths! All in a day's work for these creatures, but a spectacular window on the wild for todays guests.

Harbour Seals, Dall's Porpoises including a calf, Rhinoceros Auklets, Parasitic Jaeger, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Red-Billed and Herring Gulls, Black Turnstones, and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet in the nest).

The SV Tuan set out this afternoon in patchy fog and drizzle. Once underway in our provided wet weather gear everyone delighted in a hot cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and freshly baked muffins. Spirits were further heightened when guests onboard spotted some Dall's Porpoises with a new calf! Soon after this we headed into Blackfish Sound where the light fog created a beautiful backdrop for watching the 3 Humpback Whales we encountered. One of the Humpbacks, a playful juvenile, decided to come over to the SV Tuan and show us it's tail before diving out of sigh tto join up with it's mother again. Only 2 miles from this we encountered 2 pods of Orcas, 11 animals were observed in total , including the famous and playful Springer. We deployed the hydrophone right away and were all stunned with the intense sounds of the two families chatting with each other excitedly as they foraged for salmon. Once they all swam past the boat we followed them along for sometime before dropping the hydrophone. We were rewarded once more with magnificent whale music. On the way home we all enjoyed a warming Devonshire Tea while rembering our wonderful wildlife encounters despite the cool and wet weather.

A very rare for this area Caspian Tern, Dall's Porpoises including a calf, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Least Sandpipers, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

Despite the dense fog in places, today's SV Tuan tour evolved into one of the most spectacular Orca encounteres of the season. Reports of Orcas had the boat headed towards the Queen Charlotte Strait, and as we arrived at the destination point, the fog was thick. With senses heightened with the reduced visability, passenger's climbed on deck to assist with locating the pod. Sure enough, the beautiful sound of the Orca's blows was soon heard, and a short time later, the graceful diving bodies emerged through the cloud of white. Here began a breathtaking encounter with the C10 pod of Orcas - made all the more magical and surreal by the blanket of fog that surrounded us. The family of seven was initially observed travelling east at pace before slowing to forage for salmon with the females and calves closest to the shoreline. A full repertoire of behaviours was displayed; breaching, half breaches, spyhopping and tail slapping with the younger calves being the main participants. As the passengers and crew stood mesmerized by the antics, the eldest male - coming seemingly out of nowhere - made a grand appearance on the starboard side. He came up for a breath so close to the boat as it sat idle with the engine off, he appeared almost to be touching it. Unbelievable A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone throughout the encounter, making for a magnificent visual and auditory experience. We watched as the pod leisurely made their way east, still blissfully breaching and tail slapping as they journeyed. They eventually faded out of our visibility leaving guests and staff with firmly etched memories.

Stellar Sea Lions, Dall's Porpoises including a calf, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Western Sandpipers, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bonaparte, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and Eaglet in a nest).

Passengers experienced a tour to write to the folks at home about after encountering both Orcas, Humpback and Minke Whales today.

Sightings of Dall's Porpoises first off - a beautiful vision in itself - whet the appetites of what was to follow and so, when the Orcas were encountered in Johnstone Strait, cameras were already poised in eager anticipation. This morning was the debut appearance of the C10 pod for this season. One of the males approached SV Tuan to a close distance providing a breathtaking opportunity to capyure the image on film and in memory. The MV Cetacea also enjoyed spectacular sightings. Wonderful A-Clan vocals were audible via the hydrophone. With wildlife appetites alreadt sated, Humpback and Minke Whale viewing were real bonuses. A mother and calf pair, along with another single Humpback Whale (perhaps an older calf begining to separate from the same mother) delighted passengers. One can never tire of watching Humpback Whales 'fluking'. Two Minke Whales were also seen. Dall's Porpoises - this time with a new calf were encountered on the homeward stretch as one final, delightful, taste of wildlife, Broughton Archipelago style.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Aucklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet on a nest).

Humpback Whales were the order of the day today, with a five-srong troupe cruising the Straits for both morning and afternoon tour wildlife enthusiasts. The sightings of these majestic beasts were such that it almost appeared they were 'tag -teaming', thereby ensuring that there was seldom more than a few moments when a Humpback could not be seen! The breathtaking encounters took place in the Queen Charlotte Strait/Blackfish Sound area, with two mother and calf Humpback pairs being among those observed. Both the sailing and motor vessel tours had opportunity for spectacular encounters at close range, in fact, it was the timely raising of the sail on the SV Tuan which seemed to entice the Humpbacks for a closer look. Passenger's aboard both vessels will unlikely forget the scenes; the sense of being dwarfed by the size, power and grace of these creatures. Plenty of 'fluking' behaviour was observed which is always worthy of crowd cheers and camera clicking.

Harbour Porpoises and calf, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles.

The fog lifted this morning to reveal yet another beautiful day rich with wildlife, and passenger's on today's sailing and motor vessel tours received their full dose of the cetacean experiences on offer. Setting the scene for the day was an exciting sighting of a brand new Dalls Porpoise calf. This was followed shortly after by an encounter with Pacific White-sided Dolphins and the A12 pod of Orcas in Johnstone Strait. The highlight this morning however, was a breathtaking viewing of Humpback Whale mother and calf. Although these magnificent giants never fail to amaze, passengers and crew alike were mesmerized by the performance of the young calf. It was seen blissfully barrel rolling and waving it's pectoral fin in the air. It was hard to decide who was having a better time, the whale or the whale watchers?! Afternoon tour guests were treated to similar Humpback delights, and some breaching activity was also seen. Passenger's this afternoon struck it lucky with the presence of two pods of Orcas being in the area. The first to be encountered was a family of nine, the A12 pod. When the eldest male from this pod swam right up to the MV Cetacea as it sat idle and drifting, then dove beneath it, passenger's were left so breathtaken they almost forgot to snap the photo. And if they did miss those shots, they were given a second chance during the encounter with the A36 pod (a group of three brothers) which took place a short time later. Heart-warming A-Clan Orca vocals, enjoyed for much of the afternoon via the hydrophone, completed the experience. Sightings of Minke Whales by guests aboard the SV Tuan bought the number of cetacean species encountered today to an impressive five.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and Eaglet in a nest).

Humpbacks, Orcas, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall's Porpoises and Stellar sea Lions!

Guests aboard the sailing tours and motor cruise enjoyed a photographic feast thanks to a menagerie of wildlife in the archipelago today. Today's wildlife story began this morning with bowriding Dall's Porpoises followed by mother and calf Humpback Whales in Queen Charlotte Strait. Always a crowd pleaser with their magnificent fluke displays, this Humpback pair were particularly photogenic. They came only a few metres from the boat and both were seen spyhopping; one with its mouth open so that it's baleen could be seen. One also rolled over and waved its pectoral fin. These are rare and spectacular sights to behold. The next chapter unfolded this afternoon when the eldest male in the A30 pod of Orcas was encountered travelling in Johnstone Strait. Passenger's were delighted when he swam past - also a close distance from the boat . The rest of the pod were seen shortly after; foraging along the Vancouver Island shoreline. Guests were fortunate to then encounter a second pod of Orcas in Weynton Passage, and enjoyed the antics as this group were chased by a number of Pacific White-sided Dolphins. After a few minutes of idling through the beautiful Plumper Island waterways as a well timed opportunity to change films, the tour finale took place with both pods of Orcas swimming right by the sailing and motor vessels in Weynton Passage. With growling Stellar Sea Lions, soaring Bald Eagles and playful Dolphins as the backdrop, these were particularly memorable moments.

Black Tail Deer, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros and Cassin's Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, White-winged Scoters, Great Blue herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (and Eaglet in a nest).

The climax of the encounter which had continued for more than an hour - came when a mother and new calf pair completed a full circle of the boat at very close range. Following suit were two of the juvenile Orcas; one of whom swam toward the boat, gave a pectoral slap which splashed the boat , then rubbed itself on the side of the hull. This was an extremely unusual and lucky scene to witness; one of the guests was able to capture the excitement on video camera as evidence and passengers delighted in reliving these memorable moments as they viewed the footage later on tour. While these dramatic scenes unfolded the rest of the pod could also be observed close by, foraging for salmon and traveling. After the four curious Orcas had lost their interest in the SV Tuan, they joined the rest of the pod in a resting formation. A group of Stellar Sea Lions were again this eveing, feeding on salmon in the flood tide in Weynton Passage. It was quite a spectacular sight to behold. Bow riding Dall's Porpoises on the homeward journey were a perfect end to a breathtaking tour that was full of unbelievable cetacean action!

Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Pigeon Guillemots, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California, Ring-Billed and Herring Gulls, and Bald Eagles (including an Eaglet in a nest).

Passengers aboard the SV Tuan experienced breathtaking Orca encounters today. The A12 pod of Orcas who were seen off Donegal Head were initially observed in a resting formation. After a short time however, they began to awaken and their interest in approaching to a close distance from the boat as it drifted under sail, gave guests brilliant viewing and photographic opportunities. The group stayed close by the SV Tuan from Donegal Head all the way to Johnstone Strait through Weynton Passage; an encounter that was probably one of the most spectacular of the season so far! As the pod entered Johnstone Strait wonderful A-Clan vocalizations were heard via the hydrophone. Guests also enjoyed seeing some of the young members of the pod engaging in spyhopping. The finale of todays wildlife tour was a unique encounter with some Stellar Sea Lions. A group of around eight of them were on a salmon feeding fenzy. Passengers were intrigued by the intensity of their actions as thgey ripped apart large salmon with great gusto. The Gull action was also intense as they fought for the scraps in dangerously close proximity to the open jaws of the Sea Lions.

Dall's Porpoises and their calves (some of whom were bowriding), Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, California and Herring Gulls (+++), and Bald Eagles (including an Eaglet in a nest).

Swift tides this morning assisted the SV Tuan to make its way towards Lizard Point, to catch up with the A12 pod of Orcas as they headed out of Blackfish Sound. The pod were noted to be foraging for salmon and guests enjoyed a particularly memorable view of A33, the pod's eldest male. This male has been the most photogenic of this group of Orcas the last few sightings, approaching to a close distance from the boat on a number of occasions recently. Passengers this morning had also enjoyed an encounter with a mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales who were spotted off Donegal Head enroute. This afternoon, the A12 pod of Orcas who had continued all the way to Bere Point, had turned around, enabling guests aboard the later tour to also enjoy spectacular sightings with this group. At this stage, most of the Orcaswere in a resting formation, however, some of the young calves were noted to be playing. Tail slapping and spyhopping behaviours were seen, which is always a particular treat to witness. As the Orcas came through Weynton Passage, passengers enjoyed further brilliant viewing and photographic opportunities. Wonderful A-Clan vocalizations were heard during both morning and afternoon Orca encounters via the hydrophone.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles (including an Eaglet in a nest), California and Herring Gulls.

Guests aboard today's Sail with the Whales tours enjoyed encounters with Humpback Whales and Orcas.

The A12 pod of Orcas were seen as they foraged for salmon close to the Vancouver Island shoreline. Passenger's were lucky for this opportunity, as a short time later the pod entered the eastern boundary of Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The guests enjoyed a particularly good sighting of A33, the pods eldest male, off the SV Tuan's bow. Passengers enjoyed a wonderful encounter with a mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales in Queen Charlotte Strait this morning. The pair, swimming in close formation, were typically photogenic displaying their spectacular flukes as they dived. Guests were also treated to sightings of Pacific White-sided Dolphins (who were seen following the Orcas into Robson Bight Ecological Reserve), a Stellar Sea Lion and large numbers of Harbour Seals. Additionally, passengers observed many Bald Eagles, including two young Eaglets sitting in nests.

Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons, Bonaparte, California and Herring Gulls.

Guests aboard today's motor cruise and Sailing tours enjoyed some wonderful encounters with a mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales. It is typical for Humpbacks to display 'fluking' behaviour (showing its impressive full fluke) as it takes a deep dive, and these whales were no exception, providing the enthusiastic passengers with some great photo opportunities. The Humpback pair were initially seen some distance apart, with one approaching the MV Cetacea before they continued on their way. Guests were also treated to sightings of many Dall's Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles. Conditions this afternoon were perfect for the SV Tuan to put up its sail, making for an even more memorable day on tour.

Steller Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet in a nest).

Passengers on today's motor cruises and sailing tours were treated to some spectacular Orca encounters. Although observed in different spots in the Queen Charlotte and Johnstone Straits during the day there was one thing in common for each of the four tours that departed today; the A12 pod was out there providing some great observation and photo opportunities! The nine members of the A12 pod - which includes a brand new calf - all appeared relaxed as they foraged for salmon; a number of them approached SV Tuan or MV Cetacea for a closer look as the boats sat idle and drifting in the tide. Several swam right under the boats or alongside. One young calf

was observed breaching and some playful behaviour also took place. Wonderful A-Clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone, throughout the day. In addition to the great Orca encounters, guests were lucky to have many other cetacean sightings. Passengers on this afternoons motor cruise enjoyed a special time with around 12 Pacific White-sided Dolphins bow and wake riding for a considerable length of time. This species of Dolphin (including a new still-jaundiced calf) was also observed this morning. In addition, a Minke Whale, mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales and Dall's Porpoises (some of whom were also bow riding on both vessels) were seen making for a particularly memorable day.

Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Rufous Hummingbirds, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet in a nest).

Passengers on this afternoon's motor cruise enjoyed superb viewings of a mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales as they surfaced in amongst the waves in Queen Charlotte Strait. Another solitary Humpback Whale was also seen in this area. After a few close encounters - particularly with the mother and calf - the MV Cetacea headed back into Weynton Passage and through the Plumper Island waterways. Here guests aboard were lucky to see three Stellar Sea Lion Bulls, who are not so commonly seen in this area at this time of the year. Large numbers of Harbour Seals and their pups were also observed while cruising through this scenic part of the archipelago. Bald Eagles were observed throughout the tour; one Eagle was seen with it's young Eaglet sitting in the nest.

On our whale watching tours today a Humpback Whale mother and calf were sighted in Blackfish Sound. Soon after, the A12 pod of Orcas were encountered at Donegal Head. The group were initially seen in a resting formation close together, however they began to become more active as they approached Weynton Passage. Conditions were suitable for sailing and enabled us to sail alongside the Orcas for some time as they began to awaken. Passenger's enjoyed observing plenty of playful tail slapping and spyhopping behaviour; one of the young calves being one of those to join in. As the family group approached Johnstone Strait, they began to spread out to forage for salmon. Some lovely A-Clan vocalizations were heard via the hydrophone. Passenger's on the afternoon motor cruise enjoyed similar sightings of the Orcas and Humpback Whales, and while travelling back via the Plumper Island waterways they were lucky to also encounter a Minke Whale.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, A Stellar Sea Lion, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Rufous Hummingbirds, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles (and Eaglet in a nest).

The A12 pod of Orcas were encountered on both the morning and the afternoon tours. This morning the A12's were observed in Johnstone Strait. One of the highlights of this encounter was A33 (the pod's eldest male), A62, and her new calf curiously approaching then swimming beneath the SV Tuan as it sat idle. This pod were seen again this afternoon - barely after leaving the Alder Bay dock - and passenger's particularly enjoyed this encounter while under sail. Once again some of the Orcas appeared curious; two of the adults and the new calf chose to swim near to the boat as it sat idle and drifted in the tide. Wonderful A-Clan vocals were heard for much of the afternoon via the hydrophone. Other highlights of today's Sail with the Whales tours included; seeing a large group of Dall's Porpoises (some of whom were riding the bow); and witnessing a parent Eagle feeding it's young Eaglet in a nest.

Dall's Porpoises (+++), Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Rufous Hummingbirds, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles (and Eaglet).

On our whale watching tour today, guests aboard the SV Tuan had barely more than a few minutes when they weren't viewing whales.

The first cetacean sighting was mother and calf Humpback Whales as we entered Weynton Passage. As there were reports of Orcas nearby, our encounter with this pair was brief and sure enough, a few minutes later the A30 pod of Orcas were seen. Passenger's were delighted to be among the first people to see and report a brand new calf swimming in this group. Guests were still enjoying the encounter with the A30 pod to our port, when the A5's approached from our starboard side. The A11's were also observed in the same vicinity and guests had the almost overwhelming sense that there were Orcas in every direction! It was estimated that there were around forty Orcas observed today. Just as the SV Tuan was about to head homeward bound, under sail, another Humpback Whale, mother and calf pair were sighted. The young calf was seen practicing it's breaching skills - an impressive sight. It then approached the boat and swam beneath it before returning to it's mother's side. This was a fantastic note to end the tour on.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Sandpipers, Rufous Hummingbirds, Marbled Murrelts, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles (and an Eaglet sitting in a nest).

Guests aboard the SV Tuan were lucky to encounter Orcas, Humpback Whales, a Minke Whale and Dall's Porpoises on todays tour. Passenger's observed the foraging Humpback Whale off Donegal Head as the Tuan headed westbound towards Bere Point. A short time later, Dall's Porpoises were seen in large numbers, followed by a Minke Whale. A12 and A33, Matriarch and eldest male respectively, were the first of the A12 pod of Orcas to be encountered off Malcolm Point. The rest of the pod , including a brand new calf, followed behind, bringing the number of Orcas to be seen today to nine. All were noted to be relaxed and foraging, and one of the highlights of this Orca encounter was hearing many wonderful A-Clan vocalizations via the hydrophone. On the homeward stretch, another Humpback Whale was encountered foraging off Lizard Point. It is typical for Humpback Whales to display "fluking"behaviour (showing its impressive full fluke as it takes a deep dive), and this whale was no exception. More Dall's Porpoises were sighted on the return journey; a great way to end a wildlife-packed tour.

Passenger's on this mornings tour encountered the A12 pod of Orcas in Johnstone Strait. This pod consists of nine Orcas and is lead by the 64 year old matriarch A12.

The Orcas were curious today and approached the SV Tuan for a closer look as it sat idle and drifting and guests enjoyed listening to some lovely A-Clan vocals via the hydrophone. Passenger's touring this afternoon encountered the A30 and A11 pods. They had been resting until their arrival into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Passage. At this point, they awoke and began to engage in a range of very relaxed and playful behaviours, such as breaching and spyhopping. Springer (A73), well known for the story of her separation and eventual reuniting with her family in this area a few years ago was observed , and appeared to be leading her young cousins in the games. Both pods were very vocal throughout the encounter. Guests on this afternoons tour also observed the A12's who had made their way into Blackfish Sound via Blackney Passage at the same time that the other two pods were passing through Weynton Passage. With no other boat traffic around, and with warm and calm sea conditions, guests were delighted to savour the sights and sounds of these special creatures.

Passenger's experienced a great encounter with two pods of Orcas; viewing a total of 12 as they foraged for salmon in Johnstone Strait. The A36 pod - consisting of three brothers - were observed mingling with the A12 pod. Guests aboard the SV Tuan were able to view a brand new calf; the recent birth of A62's calf who still has the jaundiced flesh as proof of this, has brought the number in the A12 pod to nine. One of the other young calves in the A12 pod was very playful and was observed spyhopping , breaching and teail-lobbing. Passengers were delighted and surprised with a close encounter with A33 (A12's son) while he was foraging and the boat was sitting idle, drifting in the tide. As he turned and made his way towards the boat and alongside, passengers were excited to see him at very close range. They also enjoyed listening to some wonderful A-Clan vocals via the hydrophone. Another of the highlights of today's tour was encountering a young Gray Whale. This was a particularly fortunate opportunity as Gray Whale sightings are rare in this area.

Dall's Porpoises (from close proximity), Harbour Seals, Rufous Hummingbirds, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles.

Passengers experienced a close encounter with a Minke Whale in the Queen Charlotte Strait. This was a treat as it was one of only a handful of Minke Whale sightings so far this season. Another tour highlight was seeing large numbers of Dall's Porpoises, a few of whom were riding the bow of the SV Tuan as it travelled along. A young Porpoise calf was also seen. The resident Orcas today were far to the east in Johnstone Strait.

Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles.

Passenger's on this mornings sailing tour enjoyed viewing the A36 pod of Orcas at Lizard Point. The three brothers - who are consistently seen together - were observed foraging for salmon. One of the trio was witnessed "tail lobbing" (slapping it's tail against the water). A Minke Whale and four Humpback Whales were also observed this morning; one of which was seen "breaching" (leaping out of the water). On the afternoon tour, guests were also treated to some great encounters. The A12 pod of Orcas were observed as they foraged in Broughton Strait and passenger's delighted to witness one of the young calves practicing and perfecting it's breaching skills. The SV Tuan sailed the journey home; a perfect way to end a day that was brilliant in spite of the rain!

Harbour Seals, a Rufous Humming Bird, Rhinoceros Auklets, Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles.

Guests onboard SV Tuan enjoyed a leisurely encounter with the A12 pod of Orcas while under sail. A33 (the eldest male) and A12 (the pod matriarch and recently become Great Granmother) were observed foraging along the Hanson Island shoreline and passenger's enjoyed listening to some wonderful A-Clan vocals from the pair via the trailing hydrophone. The SV Tuan later crossed to the Vancouver Island shoreline to view the remainder of the A12 pod (A34 and her five calves), who were foraging for salmon. The pod's newest edition - A62's offspring- was seen, still with the yellow-tinged flesh, typical of a new born and jaundiced Orca calf.

Dall's Porpoises (seen outbound and homebound), Harbour Seals (in large numbers, in kelp beds and hauled out on rocks), Rhinoceros Auklets (+++), Belted Kingfishers, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes and Bald Eagles. Passenger's attentions were drawn to a cluster of Eagles, who were feeding off a huge Ling Cod skeleton on the beach. In summary, a brilliant day with great weather and memorable wildlife viewing opportunities.

One highlight was the encounter with the A11 pod of Orcas in Blackfish Sound. The group, led by their 47 year old matriarch, were seen travelling westbound before slowing to forage for food. Passenger's heard the A-Clan vocals and the clicking of ecolocation (the orca's navigational technique), both of which were audible via the trailing hydrophone. A mother and calf pair of Humpback Whales were also viewed in Blackfish Sound.

Dall's Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals (+++), Rhinoceros Auklets (+++), Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes and Bald Eagles. The Eagles were viewed diving into herring balls which was an impressive display of skill to observe.

This afternoon, passenger's enjoyed viewing the A36 pod of Orcas. It is the first time that the three brothers: A32, A37 and A46 have been sighted in the area this summer. They had been foraging east of Lizard Point and crossed over to Penfold Island where they continued to forage before turning back to the east. Their A-Clan

vocals were wonderful to listen to via the trailing hydrophone as the boat sailed along. A small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were also foraging alongside of the Orcas and passengers enjoyed viewing them when they surfaced near to and alongside of the boat while it was under sail. Two Humpback Whales, a mother and calf were also sighted.

Two Humpback Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes and Bald Eagles.

Guests aboard SV Tuan experienced another memorable encounter with the A12 pod of Orcas. The Orcas were sighted in the Cracroft Point area, being led by the eldest male, A33. Passengers were privileged to be able to observe A62's new calf, who today was swimming closely alongside of the Great Grandmother, A12. They also enjoyed listening to some A-Clan vocals via the hydrophone as the Orcas foraged for salmon. Today's weather provided a well timed opportunity to sail, making the encounter with the Orcas all the more memorable. On the afternoon Motor Cruise, in addition to viewing the A12 pod of Orcas and listening to their vocals, passengers also encountered a mother and calf, Humpback Whales. The calf was observed to be very relaxed and playful, slapping and waving it's pectoral fins and fluke. There were approximately ten sightings of Humpback Whales reported simultaneously in the area today which is an exciting occurrence indeed.

Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Semipalmated Sandpipers, Pigeon Guillemots, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets and Bald Eagles.

The A12 pod of Orcas were encountered whilst under full sail as the orcas foraged and travelled back along the Hanson Island shoreline in Johnstone Strait.. Guests aboard S.V. Tuan delighted in observing A62's new calf whose vocalizations were audible above the surface of the water and as the orcas foraged, they enjoyed listening to more wonderful A-Clan vocals via the hydrophone. The A12 pod is made up now of nine orcas in total: the Matriarch A12 and her son A33, her daughter A34 and 34's five calves, including her daughter A62, and her new calf. Earlier in the tour passengers were also lucky to have a close encounter with Stripe, a Humpback Whale who was foraging near to Weynton Island in Johnstone Strait. All in all, the brilliant wildlife viewing on tour today was made all the more memorable by the opportunity to move quietly with the orcas while sailing.

Dall's Porpoises+++, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, a River Otter and Bald Eagles.

On our tour today, passenger's enjoyed the quietness of an encounter with a Humpback Whale and her calf while under full sail in Blackfish Sound. The tranquility was further enhanced by being the only vessel in the vicinity for much of the leisurely viewing. Another Humpback Whale, perhaps an individual that is new to this area - had also been observed soon after our departure from Alert Bay.

Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murreletes, Red-Necked Phalaropes and upwards of twenty Bald Eagles.

On our whale watching tour today a Humpback Whale and her calf were sighted in Blackfish Sound. Resident Orcas, the A30's had entered into Johnstone Strait at Cracroft Point and travelled rapidly to the east while the A4 pods and the A12's were reported as being inside the eastern boundary of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve at the rubbing beaches. The highlights of the tour was the viewing of the Humpback Whale and her calf and a large group of Bald Eagles fishing for herring; there was also a brief encounter with Dall's Porpoises riding at the bow of the boat. Wind conditions in Johnstone Strait enabled the hoisting of the stay sail for the journey home.

Dall's Porpoises, Rufous Hummingbird, Rhinoceros Aucklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes and more than 60 Bald Eagles.

Today, passengers enjoyed spending time with the A11's, A24's and some of the A12 pod of orcas (A12 and A33) as they moved slowly in Queen Charlotte Strait this morning and early afternoon. A Humpback Whale and her calf were also sighted on the way home. It was an enjoyable tour with the wet weather failing to dampen passenger's spirits! The homeward journey under sail was a great way to end the day.

Other sightings: Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red Necked Phalaropes and Bald Eagles.

On our whale watching tour today the A4 pods of orcas were observed to be travelling inside of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.

It is possible the A12's were also present. Prior to this, a Humpback Whale and her calf were sighted in Blackfish Sound. It was exciting for passengers to observe their breaching activity. It was another lovely day to be out on the water; the combination of beautiful weather and great wildlife sightings made for a much enjoyed tour.

Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall's Porpoise mother and calf, Harbour Seals, Rufus Humming birds, Rhinoceros Aucklets, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons, Red Necked Phalaropes and Bald Eagles .

A beautiful day unfolded while passengers enjoyed viewing the A4 pods of orcas as they travelled slowly into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Passage. They were very relaxed; some could be seen on the surface nearby as they allowed the flood tide to push them through Weynton Passage. A Humpback Whale was also seen and a Minke Whale in the distance. On the afternoon tour, the orcas were travelling east in Johnstone Strait; they had been joined by the A12's who had arrived from the east. Passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan vocals on the hydrophone. A Minke Whale was also sighted briefly.

Other species observed:OOOther species PPPassageAiful day unfolded Tsisisisisighted:Orcas sighted:

A Humpback Whale, Minke Whale, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals hauled out+++, Rhinoceros Auklets+++, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles.

Today was a beautiful day to be out watching whales. As the fog started to clear, passengers began hearing the blows and then sighted, two Humpback Whales, a mother and her calf travelling slowly together. Two Minke Whales were also sighted feeding nearby in the vicinity of a large flock of Rhinoceros Aucklets who were also feeding on herring. The resident orcas were today reported as being well east in Johnstone Strait at Camp Point, travelling back to the west.

Other species observed: Dall's Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Aucklets, Common Murre, Pelagic Cormorants, Pacific Loons, Bald Eagles, Red Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, a Belted Kingfisher and a Rufous Humming Bird.

The A12's seen yesterday had continued to the east and were well out of viewing range. Passengers however enjoyed some wonderful viewing of three Humpback Whales, a mother and her calf and a third Humpback Whale who suddenly arrived from nowhere and joined them. It was also exciting to see two Dall's Porpoises travelling with a Harbour Porpoise at the bow of the boat as we cruised along.

It was a beautiful day to be out on the water. It was east in Johnstone Strait at Naka Creek that the A12's were observed to be travelling east. They were spread out, but were easily identified as being the seven members of the A12 pod.

This summer our tours commenced on May 29 but our first web logging for the season begins on June 27th, 2005.

Sightings before then were varied with frequent sightings of Black Bears on the beaches, Humpback Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals and Stellar Sea Lions. It was on June 16th that passengers onboard observed a group of 5 Transient Orcas attack and kill two Dall's Porpoises. The breaching activity of the Orcas was high, the force of their bodies hitting the water was immensely powerful. A few vocalizations were heard briefly following the attack. This was an extremely rare encounter and sighting to witness.

We hope that you will enjoy the updates. The 2004 updates will remain posted to give you some comparisons to check back on if you are planning to take a tour out with us sometime this summer.

Orca Update 2004
Johnstone Strait

October 3, 2004
It was an amazing day for viewing orcas in the Queen Charlotte Strait. Today, over 80 orcas were sighted! The numerous pods included: The A12's, A36's, A30's, I11's, I15's, G17's, G2's, G3's and possibly others.

The experience: The orcas were sighted out in the Queen Charlotte Strait and in Blackfish Sound, they were all spread out. Some were travelling to the west, others were foraging and the A & G-Clan vocals were incredible to listen to via the hydrophone. As the boat sat idle and drifting in the bottom end of the Queen Charlotte Strait, orcas could be seen in the distance, as far west as Lizard Point and the Foster Islands, some were at Donegal Head while others were off Bold Head. It was an amazing sight to see, especially when the orcas to the west turned back to the east and as pod after pod began passing by the boat. The sights and the sounds were wonderful and made an indelible impression on the minds of all onboard. Two Humpback Whales were also sighted, they were east of Lizard Point, heading back toward Donegal Head. The day was a glorious one!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Common Murres, Rhinoceros Auklets, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Sooty Shearwaters, Belted Kingfishers, Herring and California Gulls.

October 2, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following Resident pod: The A30's

The experience: The orcas were sighted in Blackfish Sound, moving to the west along the Swanson Island shoreline. It was near to Bold Head that they stalled and A30 and her daughters (A50 and A54)and their calves (A72 and A75), were observed to be resting while A30's two sons (A38 and A39) continued to forage. Their resting calls and ecolocations were heard via the hydrophone. A38 and A39 foraged nearby the boat as it sat idle, drifting in the tide, while A72 was observed spyhopping several times beside his mother as she rested. The viewing was superb! On the way home, Stellar Sea Lions were sighted and a small group of Dall's Porpoises rode at our bow briefly as we travelled along.
It was a beautiful day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: Dall's Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Common Murres, Rhinoceros Auklets, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Sooty Shearwaters, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, Herring and California Gulls.

September 27, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following Resident pod: The A30's

The experience: Shortly after leaving the dock, a group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were seen feeding nearby, Dall's Porpoises were also seen. The A30's were sighted close to Cracroft Point, they were spread out and foraging. They entered into Blackney Passage where they foraged some more, prior to travelling into Blackfish Sound. A39 continued to forage on his own while A30, A38, A50 and A72 travelled in the lead; A54 and A75 followed a short distance behind. On the way home a Humpback Whale was seen breaching twice in the wind and wave conditions that were present in the Queen Charlotte Strait. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: A Humpback Whale, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dall's Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Common Murres, Rhinoceros Auklets, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Great Blue Herons, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Herring and California Gulls.

September 19, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod:
The A12's.

The experience: It was a spectacular fall day to be out on the water viewing marine mammals!

Shortly after leaving the dock a Minke Whale was sighted, it surfaced very near to the boat surprising everyone, enabling some wonderful viewing for all on board. Numerous Harbour Seals were observed hauled out on rocky outcrops and shortly after, several Stellar Sea Lions were also seen. Several hundred Pacific White-sided Dolphins were sighted out in the Queen Charlotte Islands, they were foraging, porpoising and travelling beside the boat. The viewing of them was amazing and they trailed along beside the boat for quite some distance when we left the area to go elsewhere. A mother Black Bear and her cub were sighted on a beach, several Bald Eagles, three Great Blue Herons and a Peregrine Falcon were also seen. The A12's were sighted travelling to the west just past Izumi Rock. Like yesterday, they were foraging, A12 and A33 were in the lead with A34 and her five calves following behind. The A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. A33 delighted everyone when he foraged nearby while the boat sat idle and drifting, he then passed directly alongside and passengers enjoyed some wonderful above and below water visuals. It was a brilliant day, the viewing was superb!

Other species observed: A Minke Whale, Several hundred Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Dalls Porpoises, A mother Black Bear and her cub, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Common Murres, Rhinoceros Auklets, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Double-crested Cormorants, Belted Kingfishers, Surf Scooters, Three Great Blue Herons, a Peregrine Falcon, Herring and California Gulls.

September 18, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod:
The A12's.

The experience: It was a chilly morning that became a beautiful sunny fall afternoon! The first orcas were sighted near to Izumi Rock, A12 was foraging close to the Vancouver Island shore and A33 was nearby, 50 metres out from the shore; he was also foraging. They were silent but their ecolocations were heard as they passed by the boat, travelling to the west. A34 and her calves were a distance behind, clearing the west end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they were also foraging and very close to the V.I. shore. Light wind conditions today made sailing possible the entire time that we were with the orcas and passengers appreciated the experience of moving quietly with them, listening to their A-Clan vocalizations via the trailing hydrophone as we sailed along. With the sun warm upon our backs, the viewing of A34 and her calves was a special experience, observing them as they foraged, spyhopped, rested and played amongst the Bull Kelp was quite wonderful and their vocalizations were superb! We travelled back via the islands viewing hauled out Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles. It was a glorious day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: Harbour Seals, Dalls Porpoises, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters, Herring and California Gulls.

September 17, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed three Transient Orcas, two Humpback Whales and several hundred Pacific White-sided Dolphins.

The experience: It was an amazing day for viewing marine mammals in the area!

Shortly after leaving the dock we were in the midst of 100's of Pacific White-sided Dolphins. They were spread out in Johnstone Strait near to the Stephenson Islands making their way into Weynton Passage. They were everywhere and delighted passengers as they swam along, leaping clear out of the water and porpoising, while others were seen to be foraging quietly. Listening to their vocalizations via the hydrophone was of special interest and was enjoyed by all. The viewing was phenomenal! Further along, two Stellar Sea Lions were seen swimming near the shore and it was west of Lizard Point that two large Humpback Whales were sighted. It was exciting to see them and for passengers to realize their size when they surfaced nearby. On the way home, a River Otter was sighted and10 more Stellar Sea Lions were seen hauled out on a rocky outcrop. The three Transient Orcas were sighted at the Stephenson Islands, two females and a calf, they were travelling to the west towards Alert Bay. At one point they surfaced altogether and turned towards the boat allowing passengers some wonderful viewing.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Several 100 Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Dalls Porpoises, A River Otter, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters, Great Blue Herons, Herring, Thayer's and California Gulls.

September 16, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A12's.

The experience: The rain began to lift as we left the dock and from that point on, the day became brighter and brighter. Several Dall's Porpoises were observed nearby while two, briefly rode at the bow of the boat as we travelled along and many more were seen "rooster tailing" as they moved rapidly to the west. Two Humpback Whales were sighted just east of Lizard Point, they were travelling east and passengers had some exciting viewing when they surfaced near to the boat, enabling some wonderful photographic and viewing opportunities. We decided to carry on further to the west, scanning for dorsal fins and blows and just before turning back, we sighted what looked to be several blows in the far distance. It was too far away to be sure that it was not wave action but later it was thrilling to realize that orcas were indeed "inbound" into the area. It was at Black Bluff that we encountered the orcas and were able to identify them as being the A12's. They were travelling to the east rapidly and were taking long dives. A34 and her five calves were together while A12 and A33 were slightly in front but a distance away and they were seen to be foraging. Several Pacific White-sided Dolphins suddenly appeared and were seen swimming with A34 and calves and then moved off to where A12 and A34 were foraging. A34 and calves were observed to rub briefly at Lizard Point before crossing over towards A12 and A33 where they were also seen to begin to forage. On the way home, passengers enjoyed the viewing of numerous sea birds and several hundred Pacific White-sided Dolphins. It was a wonderful ending to a very exciting day of viewing!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Several 100 Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters, Great Blue Herons, Harlequin Ducks, Belted Kingfishers, Herring, Thayer's and California Gulls.

September 15, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed two Humpback Whales, A Minke Whale and several hundred Pacific White-sided Dolphins.

The experience: Minutes after leaving the dock a Minke Whale was sighted! At one point it surfaced very near to the boat, surprising all onboard giving passengers some exceptional viewing. The Humpback Whales were sighted out in the Queen Charlotte Strait along with hundreds of Pacific White-sided Dolphins. It was hard to estimate the number of Dolphins present, there could have been anywhere between 500-1000! They were everywhere, spread out over a wide area. They were actively feeding and playing, leaping clear of the water and their vocalizations, heard via the hydrophone, were wonderful to listen to. The two Humpback Whales were moving back and forth surrounded by the Dolphins and light wind conditions today out in the Queen Charlotte Strait, enabled passengers to experience the thrill of sailing, moving quietly with the Humpback Whales and Dolphins. We travelled back via the island waterways viewing numerous bird species along the way and other marine mammals. It was an amazing day to be out on the water!

Species observed: Two Humpback Whales, One Minke Whale, Several 100 Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Stellar Sea Lions, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters, Herring, Thayer's and California Gulls.

September 14, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed some 18-25 Offshore Orcas.

The experience: It was an exciting encounter as moments after leaving the dock, passengers had their first sighting of the Offshore Orcas. They were travelling rapidly to the west and after passing in front of Alert Bay, they continued towards Haddington Island and Ledge Point. Tail lobbing, porpoising, breaching, pectoral slapping and resting behaviour was observed. Along the beach at Ledge Point, a mother Black Bear with her two cubs were sighted as she foraged amongst the rocks. We travelled back via some island waterways viewing numerous sea birds and Harbour Seals hauled out on rocky outcrops.

Other species observed: A Mother Black Bear and her two cubs, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters, Pigeon Guillemots, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 12, 2004
The experience: Of the large superpod gathering of some 94-96 orcas that were sighted yesterday, no resident orcas were sighted today in the region of Johnstone Strait/ Queen Charlotte Strait. Passengers enjoyed the viewing of two large Humpback Whales feeding out in the Queen Charlotte Strait near to the White Cliff Islands/ Bold Head area, they were foraging back and forth. A third, juvenile Humpback Whale was also seen near to the White Cliff Islands. It was a beautiful day for touring the island waterways looking at large numbers of sea birds, Harbour Seal colonies, Bald Eagles and their nests.

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Belted Kingfishers, Great Blue Herons, Herring, Thayer's and California Gulls.

September 11, 2004
Today, there were many pods of orcas in Johnstone Strait. Some of the pods that we were able to identify were: the I15's, A36's, A11's, G17's. Other pods that were also in the area that we did not see close enough to identify their dorsal fins and saddle patches were: the A30's, B7's, I11's, A4's, A5's and possibly other G-Clan pods.

The experience: Enroute to viewing the orcas two Humpback Whales were seen, the water was calm after yesterday's storm and the sighting of them was wonderful. The orcas were sighted near to the Sophia Islands, they were spread out all across Johnstone Strait in their family groups, moving steadily west. The I15's were the first pod that we encountered, they were spread out and foraging as they travelled. The G-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to, A-Clan calls were also heard and it was exciting to see A13 as he foraged near to the boat. A small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were observed to be swimming with the orcas as they foraged and travelled. Several orcas foraged off Cracroft Point, while others had already reached Turn Point on either side of Johnstone Strait. Breaching, spyhopping, tail slapping behaviour was also observed. A Minke Whale was seen very near to the boat, surprising everyone on board by its sudden appearance. It was an amazing day for viewing orcas, the sightings and the vocalizations were superb!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, A MInke Whale, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Canada Geese, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 9, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's and the B7's.

The experience: The orcas were sighted travelling to the west, west of Adams River. The first pod that we encountered were the A30's and they were travelling close to the Vancouver Island shoreline. Some foraging was observed along the shoreline and passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls via the hydrophone. The B's were travelling a short distance behind, a few hundred metres from the Vancouver Island shore, almost parallel to the A30's and they were silent at the time that we were with them. These pods were among those that had travelled to the far east yesterday morning and were the first of the pods returning back into the Robson Bight/ Upper Johnstone Strait area. Numerous migrating seabirds were seen in flight with large numbers of Surf Scoters in particular. A large flock of Sooty Shearwaters were seen resting in Weynton Passage along with smaller groups of Common Murre. The viewing of numerous Harbour Seals hauled out on rocky outcrops was quite wonderful.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scooters,Western Sandpipers, Brants, Black Turnstones, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 8, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The G17's and A36's.

The experience: The orcas were sighted east of Blinkhorn, they were travelling to the east and were well spread out. As the boat travelled parallel, the dorsal fin of G38 and the saddle patch of G23 were identified. Other pods were further to the east, also travelling rapidly to the east. We travelled into Blackfish Sound via the Little Hanson Island waterway, viewing Bald Eagles and their nests, Great Blue Herons and Belted Kingfishers. Three Stellar Sea Lions were sighted swimming off Licka Point (near to Orcalab) and another at the top end of Blackfish Sound where a Minke Whale was also sighted. Passengers were thrilled to see the incoming A36 pod (three brothers), travelling east quickly from the vicinity of the Foster Islands; they were well spread out in the Queen Charlotte Strait and were headed towards Bold Point. A32 was in the lead, they were foraging and were vocalizing intermittently. On the way home, a Humpback Whale was sighted in the distance. It was a beautiful day for viewing marine mammals in the area.

Other species observed: One Minke Whale, A Humpback Whale, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters , Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers, Herring and California Gulls.

September 6, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following Pod: The B7's.

The experience: With reports of the A30's, A11's and A5 pods last seen yesterday evening, heading east, we began our tour travelling east towards the "Cliff" and the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Just east of Cracroft Point, Troy, who monitors the Queen Charlotte Strait from Bere Point, reported orcas, the B7's, off Bere Point, heading east. We turned back and passing the www.orca-live.com camera and monitoring station at Cracroft Point, travelled past the Orcalab and up through Blackfish Sound. A juvenile Humpback Whale was sighted near to Donegal Head en route to our meeting up with the B7's and another Humpback Whale was also seen in the far distance. B13 was sighted east of Bere Point, well in the lead of his family. The rest of the pod were spread out, they were also travelling very rapidly to the east. Some foraging behaviour and pectoral slapping was observed and some beautiful A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. It was exciting to see B12 foraging towards the boat as it sat idle with the engine off, and to see him pass nearby. A small group of Stellar Sea Lions were seen swimming near to the Plumper Islands and numerous Harbour Seals hauled out, were also seen on the way home. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Great Blue Herons, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 5, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following Pods: The A30's, A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73), A5's (A8's +A51 and A61, A43's).

The experience: It was one of the loveliest days of the summer! On the way to viewing the orcas a juvenile Humpback Whale was sighted in Weynton Passage. It was feeding, along with numerous sea birds who were also actively feeding in the Passage. Two more large Humpback Whales were sighted in the top end of Blackfish Sound, their blows could be heard a long distance away. The viewing was excellent. The A30's were sighted off Bold Head, foraging along the Swanson shoreline and moving outwards as they foraged. The A-Clan vocals of the A30's were keenly listened to and were one of the highlights of the tour. It was interesting to observe them as they foraged alone or in pairs, around the boat as it sat with the engine off. At one point, A72 breached clear of the water, surprising and delighting everyone onboard. As we observed, the family joined together and began to travel to the east in Blackfish Sound, towards Blackney Passage. The other pods, the A11's and A5's were nearby, they were resting together in a resting line and were moving very slowly, also to the east in Blackfish Sound. Several spyhops and pectoral slaps were seen, the viewing was quite remarkable! On the way home, cruising through the island waterways, the beauty of the area was imprinted in the minds of all onboard. Bull kelp sparkled in the sunshine, Harbour Seals lay hauled out on rocks, Sooty Shearwaters sheered the water and Bald Eagles soared high. It was enthralling and magical!

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Marbled Murrelets, Pelagic Cormorants, Surf Scoters, Belted Kingfishers, Great Blue Herons, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 4, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following Subpod:
The A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73).

The experience: It was a beautiful day to be out on the water! Enroute to viewing the orcas, several small colonies of Harbour Seals, hauled out on the rocks were seen, followed by seven Stellar Sea Lions. Various species of sea birds were observed to be spread across the Queen Charlotte Strait with large flocks of migrating Sooty Shearwaters, being the most abundant. The A11's were sighted along with two Humpback Whales. The orcas were foraging, moving steadily to the west while the Humpback Whales were travelling eastbound. A56 and A73 were together, closest to the Malcolm Island shore, west of Lizard Point. A11 was a distance off shore with A13, they were foraging intensely. As the boat sat idle with the engine off, A13 foraged towards and under the boat enabling passengers some wonderful visuals as he swam by, under the water and as he surfaced nearby. It was an exciting encounter for all on board! The two Humpback Whales were again sighted as they travelled towards Donegal Head. They were taking long dives of 10 -13 minute intervals.

It was wonderful to see them travel, one behind the other and diving seconds apart; the viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Bald Eagles, Marbled Murrelets, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

September 3, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A30's.

The experience: The orcas were sighted east of Cracroft Point, they were crossing over to the Vancouver Island shore. A30, her daughters (A50 and A54) and their calves (A72 and A75) were travelling together although at times, briefly, they would stop to forage. Her two sons (A38 and A39) were further away, A39 was in the lead, while A38 was seen to be trailing behind, foraging also. Some A-Clan calls were heard prior to their entering into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve where they were observed to be foraging initially at Robson Point, before moving further east and onto the rubbing beaches. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water and cruising home via the island waterways, passengers were delighted to see a Black Bear on a beach, an abundance of sea birds including Sooty Shearwaters, three Stellar Sea Lions and numerous hauled out Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: A Black Bear, Dalls Porpoises, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Sooty Shearwaters, Belted Kingfishers, A Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagles, Canadian Geese, Marbled Murrelets, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring and California Gulls.

September 2, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A30's.

The experience: A blow was seen by Nigel, a passenger onboard, and the orcas were sighted! They were east of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and were grouped together, travelling rapidly to the east in a travelling mode. Dall's Porpoises were also observed to be "rooster tailing" on several occasions in the waves.

Other species observed: Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring and California Gulls.

September 1, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pod: The A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73).

The experience: En route to viewing the A11's, two Humpback Whales were seen in the distance. The A11's were travelling west off Bold Point, they were spread out and foraging. A11 was on her own, A56 and A73 were together and A13 was also on his own. At one point, A11, A56 and A73 came together, passing the boat nearby as it sat idle with the engine switched off. The A-Clan vocals were clear and wonderful; passengers enjoyed listening to their calls while observing their foraging movements. The Humpback Whales were travelling and taking long dives and it was later that a third, smaller Humpback Whale was sighted, a juvenile. Light wind conditions made sailing possible in the Queen Charlotte Strait and passengers enjoyed the experience of moving quietly with the Orcas and Humpback Whales, while under sail. While trailing the hydrophone, some A-Clan calls were heard and several breaches were observed by A73 and also A13. Passengers on the Motor Cruise also enjoyed some wonderful viewing opportunities of both Orcas and Humpback Whales. It was also a wonderful day for viewing an abundance of sea birds.

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Belted Kingfishers, Bald Eagles, Harlequin Ducks, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring and California Gulls.

August 31st, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73).

The experience: En route to viewing the orcas a Minke Whale was sighted. The viewing took everyone by surprise as its head and a white pectoral fin was seen coming up through the water very near to the boat in fog conditions; the viewing was wonderful and everyone was thrilled to see it so clearly above and below the waterline. Near to Stubbs Island, two Humpback Whales were sighted, again taking everyone by surprise! In fog conditions, they surfaced near to the boat and it was interesting to see them feeding near to a herring ball.
The A11's were sighted a distance off shore near Malcolm Point on Malcolm Island. They were spread out and foraging and continued to travel further NW, nearing Numas Islands before turning back to the east. Some breaching activity was observed and as the fog cleared, they were all seen travelling together, the viewing was superb. Numerous bird species were seen on the way home and another Minke Whale was sighted, possibly the same one that was seen earlier on in the day.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, A Minke Whale, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals Stellar Sea Lions, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked and Wilsons Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Belted Kingfishers, Bald Eagles, Harlequin Ducks, Black Oyster Catchers, Black Turnstones, Mallard Ducks, Herring and California Gulls.

August 29th, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A30's.

The experience: The A30's were sighted travelling west under the "Cliff"; A30 the matriarch, was well in the lead and she was moving very quickly. She stopped to forage at the west end of the Sophia Islands and vocalized, a small group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins were seen to be with her, porpoising along. The rest of the pod approached rapidly from the east , porpoising also towards her, as though in a hurry to catch up. They were soon all observed to be together in a travelling family group before they all separated at Cracroft Point and commenced to forage. The A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. As passengers istened to the A-Clan calls while watching the orcas forage, A39 was seen to approach the boat from the stern, his ecolocations were heard and he proceeded to swim along side of and then under the boat. Seeing him swimming beside the boat, under the water as well as above, was exciting, the viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Pigeon Guillemots, Belted Kingfishers, Canadian Geese flying south, Herring, Bonapartes and California Gulls.

August 28, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A30's.

The experience: The A30's were in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve for most of the time that we were viewing them. A39 foraged outside of the east end boundary, A38 was also foraging near to the boundary and A30 foraged past the east boundary briefly. Passengers enjoyed listening to their A-Clan calls. It was near to Donegal Head that two Pacific White-sided Dolphins were sighted and then a Humpback Whale. The Humpback Whale was feeding in large circles near to and around the boat as it sat idle with the engine switched off. The viewing was spectacular!

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dalls Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Herring and California Gulls.

August 27, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods:
The A30's, A4's (A11's and A24's), A5's (A8's, A43's, A51 and A61) and B7's.

The experience: It was another extremely interesting day for viewing orcas in the area.
Passengers boarding in Alert Bay this morning, commenced their whale watching from the dock as
the B7's were sighted travelling west past Alert Bay. They were in a resting line, moving very slowly and passengers were thrilled to see orcas so early in the tour. We left them as they rested together west of the Alert Bay Rock. En route to sighting more orcas, a juvenile Humpback Whale was sighted breaching in the distance in the Queen Charlotte Strait, it was viewed briefly prior to our moving on to view the other orcas who were moving west at Lizard Point; the A4's, A5's and A30 Subpods. The viewing was superb and the A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. A11 and A13 were foraging together, A38 was also nearby foraging. As we observed, the A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73) grouped together and were in the lead, the A24's were travelling parallel but were a distance apart. The A8's + A51/A61 were behind with the A43's and the A35's. Further behind were the A30's. Lots of socializing was observed, multiple spyhopping, breaching and also resting behaviour was observed. The A30's dropped behind, rested briefly and then commenced travelling back to the east, all the while, the A-Clan vocals continued. The A30's travelled down the Malcolm Island shoreline, moving away from the shoreline, foraging as they went; they were moving in the direction of the White Cliff Islands in an easterly direction. On the way home, the juvenile Humpback Whale was sighted again, passengers were excited to see it breaching 6-7 times. Passengers on the afternoon Motor Cruise enjoyed viewing the B7's who were resting at Haddington Island, after an hour or more of resting, they began to vocalize and the calls were beautiful to listen to; they then began to travel to the west. Tail slapping, foraging behaviour and a half breach was observed.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ancient Murrelets, Several flocks of Canadian Geese flying south, Herring and California Gulls.

August 26, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods:The A30's, A4's (A11's and A24's), A5's (A8's, A43's, A51 and A61), B7's, D's, C6's and C10's.

The experience: Today was an absolutely magical day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait! The weather was glorious and the sightings were superb. Passengers on the morning tour sighted orcas, the A8's, A24's and A5's at Cracroft Point. They were heading west and were foraging in the tide as they continued to the west. The A11's were also headed west while A13 was seen travelling alone, heading west also, taking very long dives and foraging. The C's and D's had travelled to the west along the Vancouver Island shore while the A30's were behind, moving more slowly and crossing over to Cracroft Point to forage. The B7's were the last to clear from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they travelled slowly to the west along the V.I. shore. It was wonderful to see B7 with her three son's travelling together slowly in a resting line and to see B14 and her two calves, travelling along close to the V.I shore a distance behind. B7 and her son's commenced to forage and their A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. Passengers on the afternoon Motor Cruise tour also enjoyed some superb viewing of the C, D and B pods as they foraged and rested near to Blinkhorn. All day, A-Clan vocals/dialects could be heard in Johnstone Strait while the numerous pods, travelled in various directions. The A4 and A5's turned back to the east after resting near to the Baron Reefs, the A30's also after foraging at Cracroft Point turned back to the east while the C's, D's and the B's continued travelling very slowly to the west and were last sighted, some near to the Bauza Islets, some were at the Lewis Point Light and others were observed turning towards Weynton Passage at the Stephenson Islands. Passengers on the Motor Cruise meandered through several island waterways on the way home, viewing numerous seabirds, Eagle nests, Sea Lions and Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Stellar Sea Lions, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Ancient Murrelets Herring and California Gulls.

August 25, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods:
The A30's and A11's (A11, A13, A56 and A73).

The experience: Passengers on the morning tour enjoyed viewing the A30's as they travelled west along the Vancouver Island shoreline, near to Izumi Rock. The mothers and calves were foraging very close to the shore while A38 was a distance out and A39 was mid Strait; they were also foraging. The A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. The A11's were further behind on the Cracroft shore, angling over towards the V. I. shore. On the afternoon tours, passengers on both vessels enjoyed viewing the pods as they travelled slowly in resting lines, back to the east. A39 was well ahead of his pod foraging intensively, prior to their entering the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A11's continued moving mid Strait, outside of the Reserve. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon and the viewing was superb.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Surf Scoters, Herring and California Gulls.

August 24, 2004
The orcas were reported to be travelling far east in Johnstone Strait today, travelling east of Adams River and Windy Point. They were the A4's, A5's, A30's, C's, B's and possible D pods.

The experience: Passengers on the afternoon tour sighted a Humpback Whale near to Stubbs Island and they enjoyed some wonderful viewing as it foraged nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting in the ebbing tide.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Black Turnstones, Herring and California Gulls.

August 23, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's, A4's ( A11's + A24's), A5's (A8's + A51/ A61 + A43's).

The experience: It was a foggy day in Johnstone Strait and yet the viewing of the orcas was quite wonderful. On the morning tour the A30's were sighted along with the A4's and A5's. They were seen travelling very slowly to the east, the A4's and A5's in resting lines; the A30's were foraging and moved over to Cracroft Point and continued to forage. Passengers enjoyed listening to the A-Clan vocalizations and observing the orcas as they foraged nearby. On the afternoon tours, all of the orcas were observed travelling to the east, crossing into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A8's were the last pod seen entering into the reserve and headed directly to one of the eastern rubbing beaches. Some resting calls were heard and the sound of rubbing at the beaches was also heard on the hydrophone as the various pods were busy rubbing at the beaches!

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Herring and California Gulls.

August 22, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's, B7's, A4's ( A11's + A24's), A5's (A8's + A51/ A61 + A43's).

The experience: It was another wonderful day of viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait.
The orcas were sighted west of Forward Bay, they were spread out and were travelling quickly towards the west. The A5's were in the lead, they were travelling very closely along the Cracroft Island shoreline; the A4's followed with the A11's travelling with the B7's and the A30's were slightly behind and were closer to the Cracroft shoreline. Foraging behaviour, some spyhops and several breaches were observed. Passengers enjoyed listening to the A-Clan vocalizations, they were wonderful to listen to and the viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Herring and California Gulls.

August 21, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: C6's, C10's and D pods.
The A4's, A5's and A30's were travelling parallel, on the Hanson Island Shoreline, also heading west.

The experience: Despite heavy fog conditions and later rain, the viewing of the orcas today in Johnstone Strait was exceptional and was one of the best viewing experiences of the season. The C6's, C10's and D's were sighted as they headed west, at the west end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Prior to seeing them, passengers could hear their blows in the fog as they moved closer, they could also hear their A-Clan calls on the hydrophone. The pods were spread out in their family groups, they were foraging as they travelled quickly to the west. The A-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to and the visuals of the whales, seeing them under the water and passing by the boat as it sat with the engine off, was intensely exciting and a "once in a lifetime" experience.

Other species observed: Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Herring and California Gulls.

August 20, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed a group of three Transient orcas:
T10, T10b and T10c. The Resident orcas who were sighted yesterday, were reported travelling in the eastern portion of Johnstone Strait, near to Kelsy Bay.

The experience: The orcas were sighted in Johnstone Strait, making their way along the shoreline of the Pearse Islands and passengers were fortunate in getting some good viewing of the orcas, who were taking long dives, when we first neared the area. They travelled towards the Stephenson Islands where numerous Harbour Seals were hauled out on the rocks and passengers again had some excellent viewing opportunities; observing as the three orcas swam close up to the seals, panicking some into the water. It was extremely interesting viewing. The orcas were lost from site briefly and were then sighted moving in a relaxed manner, resting, heading towards Weynton Island. Some good visuals were obtained as the three orcas moved slowly towards the boat as it sat idle with the engine off, they swam under the boat and resurfaced nearby, the viewing was superb! On our last sighting, they were making their way through the Blow Hole into Blackfish Sound. It was an extremely interesting and exciting encounter.

Other species observed: Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 19, 2004

On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's, A4's, A5's, C6's, C10's and D's.

It was a beautiful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. The A30's were sighted travelling quickly to the west along the Vancouver Island Shoreline, some foraging behaviour was observed, some tail slaps and a spyhop. Their beautiful A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. A38 was foraging ahead with A30 but later joined up with A50, A54 and their calves into a resting line leaving A30 in the lead with A39 foraging, centre Strait. The other pods were on the Hanson Island Shoreline, also travelling to the west. It was noted that when A30 turned and began travelling back to the east, all of the other pods turned also.

Some of the pods, the A4's and A5's began crossing over towards the Vancouver Island Shore falling in behind the A30's in close procession in their family pods. The C6's, C10's and D's were sighted travelling very closely together in a resting line, they were at Cracroft Point heading east also.

Other species observed: Dall's Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 18, 2004

On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: the A30's.

The experience: The orcas were sighted abeam Cracroft Point, they were in a resting line and were visible at the edge of a fog bank.

They turned into Blackney Passage and proceeded to travel in a resting line, slowly to the west. A39 began to forage parallel to the rest of the family and they all continued to the west in Blackfish Sound. A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone as A39 and then A38 began to forage, some resting calls were also heard. A39 foraged near to the boat as it sat idle and drifting in the current. As he passed by and then swam under the boat, the viewing was superb.

Other species observed: Dall's Porpoises, Harbour seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

August 17, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed a Humpback Whale and T14, a Transient Orca. The Resident Orcas: the A30's, A4's, A5's, A36's, possible A12's, G’s and C pods were travelling east in the eastern portion of Johnstone Strait, east of Adams River.

The experience: Passengers on the morning tour enjoyed some exceptional viewing of a large Humpback Whale as it foraged in the flood tide near to Donegal Head. As the boat sat idle and drifting in the current, passengers were stunned when the whale surfaced nearby and then turned and moved directly towards the boat, surfacing twice prior to diving under the boat. The large fluke tilted sideways and then disappeared midway along the side of the boat, enabling passengers "a once in a lifetime experience!" The above and below water visuals of the head, the fluke and the body was breathtaking. Passengers on the afternoon Motor Cruise also enjoyed some exceptional viewing as the Humpback Whale foraged in the flood tide. A Transient Orca, T14 was sighted later in the tour. Passengers enjoyed viewing the orca as it travelled close to the shoreline and amongst the Bull Kelp that was sparkling in the sunshine. A spyhop and a tail slap was observed and a Harbour Seal appeared to be moving quickly and safely out of the way of the orca.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, A Stellar Sea Lion, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring, Bonaparte's and California Gulls.

August 16, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: A30's, A4's and A5's.

The experience: Today was another beautiful day for viewing orcas in Johnestone Strait. They were first sighted by passengers on the morning tour, travelling east very slowly in a resting line near to Izumi Rock. The A4's and A5's, their blows could be seen a distance away, as they entered into the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A30's were nearby, centre Strait, slowly making their way, also to the east in a resting line. On the Motor Cruise, passengers sighted the A30's prior to their moving inside the Ecological Reserve; the A4's and A5's were on the rubbing beaches. On the way home, a Humpback Whale was sighted in Blackfish Sound, the viewing was superb! Touring through the island waterways on the way home, Dall’s Porpoises and Harbour Seals were also seen. It was a beautiful day for viewing on the water!

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring, Bonaparte’s and California Gulls.

August 15, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the A11's. The A4's, A5's and A30's were down in the Ecological Reserve at the rubbing beaches

The experience: Today was a beautiful day for viewing orcas. A11, A13, A56 and A73 were first sighted as they entered Weynton Passage, they were travelling west. They were spread out and were foraging intensively. A11 and A56 were closer together with A73 following close behind A13. Both foraged around and near to the boat as it sat idle and drifting in the current. At one point, A13 foraged at the bow of the boat, passing by closely, the viewing was superb! Fog conditions obscured viewing at times but it was exciting listening to their blows in the fog and sighting them again. When we left them, they were still foraging between Bold Head and Donegal Head in the Queen Charlotte Strait. Also seen, was an abundance of sea birds feeding on herring balls. On the way home, passengers enjoyed exploring the quiet beauty of the island waterways, observing Bald Eagles and their nests and Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring, Bonaparte’s and California Gulls.

August 13, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: the A36's, A4's, A5's, A30's and the I15's.

The experience: It was another beautiful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. Passengers on the morning tour encountered orcas as they travelled west past the Pig Ranch. They were well spread out across the Strait in their family groups. The A & G Clan calls were wonderful to listen to. The near viewing of the A12's, A30's, I15's, A36's and A11 pods was quite wonderful, one young orca was seen breaching six times! On the afternoon tour, the orcas were sighted as they travelled west again, travelling from the west end of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. The A12's were in the lead while the other pods followed, again spread out across the Strait. The A & G-Clan calls were wonderful to listen to. Travelling, foraging and resting behaviour was observed. While the other pods all turned and travelled east again, the A36's remained foraging near the Stephenson Islands. It was a beautiful afternoon for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait.

Other species observed: Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 12, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, the following pods were observed: the A36's, A12's and the I15's.

The experience: With the addition of the A12's, the I15's and A36's followed much the same route as yesterday morning. Passengers had their first sighting of orcas, the I15's as they headed west near Izumi Rock. They were all spread out and foraging. The A36 brothers were travelling separately, mixed in with the I15's. The A12's were foraging/travelling together with A33 foraging parallel nearby. It was exciting viewing and passengers were thrilled to see Dalls Porpoises riding at the bow of the boat twice on the way home. Passengers on the Motor Cruise encountered 3 Transient orcas, near to Alert Bay shortly after departing on tour. They also observed the I15's, the A12's and A36 pods who were down by the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. It was a beautiful and peaceful afternoon and the orcas were seen moving slowly towards the beaches. Touring home via the island waterways, it was an exceptional afternoon where the viewing of Bald Eagles and their nests, Harbour Seals, Sea birds and a Humpback Whale was superb. Dall's Porpoises joined the boat, bowriding on two occasions exciting all on board.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Bald Eagles, Herring, Bonaparte’s and California Gulls.

August 11, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: the A36's and the I15's.

The experience: It was another beautiful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. Passengers on S.V. Tuan had their first sighting of orcas as the I15's travelled to the west from the Ecological Reserve. They were all spread out and foraging, I41 foraged extensively around the boat as it sat idle and drifting. The A36 brothers were foraging off Cracroft Point and passengers enjoyed viewing them as they foraged in the flood tide. A37 and A32 foraged back and forth near to and under the boat as it sat idle and drifting, their A-Clan vocalizations were wonderful to listen to. Passengers on the Motor Cruise had some incredible viewing with the I15's as they foraged back and forth around the boat as it sat idle and drifting, the G-Clan calls were superb. Some resting behaviour was also seen and as they grouped together, the viewing was remarkable!

The A36's were also seen, Pacific White-sided Dolphins were observed swimming around the A36's and the I15's earlier. Passengers on both vessels also saw two Humpback Whales on their way home. It was a most glorious day, cruising home via the island waterways was exceptionally beautiful.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 10, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: the A30's, A4's, A5's, A12's, I15's and A36's.

The experience: It was an amazing day for viewing orcas in the area. On the morning tour, passengers on S.V. Tuan enjoyed viewing a Humpback Whale just a head of seeing A12 and A33 as they foraged along the Hanson Island shoreline; they were followed by A34 and her calves. The A35's were also seen and then later the A36's, the I15's and lastly the A12's again. The A & G-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. On the afternoon tour, passengers enjoyed viewing the A30's at Cracroft Point as they travelled west, they were followed by the A4's and A5's. It was in Blackfish Sound that a Humpback Whale was seen briefly before the A12's were sighted travelling very close to the Hanson Island shoreline. They passed slowly through the Blow Hole into Weynton Passage and their A-Clan vocals were heard as they entered Johnstone Strait. Passengers on the Motor Cruise enjoyed some wonderful viewing of the I15's, A12's and A36's and some Pacific White-sided Dolphins who were swimming with the orcas. A & G-Clan vocals were enjoyed by all. It was a wonderful day of viewing!

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes+++, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 9, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: the A5's, A4's, A30's, A12's, I15's and A36's.

The experience: It was a glorious day to be out on the water! On the morning tour the orcas were sighted heading east, they were travelling quickly. The A30's were in the Ecological Reserve while the A24's and A23's were adjacent and resting on the Cracroft shoreline. The A8's, A51/ A61 and A11, A13 and A56 were a short distance ahead further east. On the afternoon tour, enroute to viewing the orcas, two Humpback Whales were sighted (three were in the area this afternoon). The orcas were moving east, east of Lizard Point. The A35's were well in the lead, they were followed by the A12's, I15's, A73 and A36's. The lighting was brilliant and the A & G-Clan vocals were wonderful to listen to. A32 and A46 foraged around the boat as it sat idle and drifting, as did I41 and A37. Some spy-hopping, tail slapping, and half breaches were observed. The orcas were headed towards Blackfish Sound, extensive foraging was noted and one male orca was seen to breach twice. The viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

August 8, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, the Orca pods we observed were the A12's and the I15's.

The experience: It was a beautiful day to be out on the water! Enroute to viewing the Orcas, Dalls Porpoises delighted passengers by riding at the bow of the boat as it cruised along. The A12's and I15's were sighted near to Lizard Point, they were travelling slowly east. Pacific White-sided Dolphins were also observed to be travelling with them part of the way. The viewing was exceptional. Foraging, resting, some tail slapping and spyhopping behaviour was observed. A breach at the stern of the boat was very exciting to see. On our return, we travelled back via the scenic waterways of the Plumper Islands viewing Eagle nests and Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: Numerous Dall’s Porpoises, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

August 7, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the I15's.

The experience: The orcas were well to the east in Johnstone Strait, below Adams River in the morning. It was not until the afternoon tour that the I15's were sighted in the Robson Bight Reserve as they travelled back from the far east. They had finished at the rubbing beaches and were moving steadily to the west. Passengers enjoyed some remarkable viewing as the orcas foraged along the Vancouver Island shore, past the west end boundary of the Reserve. I41 foraged around the boat as it sat idle and drifting, enabling passengers a brilliant opportunity for viewing and photography; the G-Clan vocalizations of the I15's were wonderful to listen to. On the way home, Dall’s Porpoises on several occasions were bowriding at the bow of the boat, thrilling all on board. It was a marvellous ending to a beautiful day on the water.

Other species observed: Numerous Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

August 6, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the A12's, A36's, A30's, A5's, A4's and I15 pods.

The experience: It was an amazing day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait! The orcas were well spread out across the Strait when we neared the area. At Izumi Rock, with the boat drifting in the tide, passengers experienced some breathtaking viewing as pod after pod surfaced nearby, foraging and moving slowly to the west along the Vancouver Island shore. Orcas were also mid strait and on the Cracroft/Hanson Island shores. The A30's as they foraged along the shoreline, their vocals were distinct and beautiful to listen to. The I15's were well spread out and further foraging, some spyhopping and some resting behaviour was noted. It was remarkable viewing, with the sighting of so many fins in the distance and being able to listen to A & G-Clan calls. As the pods turned and headed back to the east, the A12's were the last pod to travel back, they had been resting beyond "Turn Point" and it was wonderful watching them pass on by as we drifted in the tide. We cruised home via several waterways, viewing Bald Eagle nests, Eagles and Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: Numerous Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

August 5, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the A12's, A36's and I15 pods.

The experience: The orcas were travelling in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Some were at the rubbing beaches and some were foraging. The A12's were moving slowly to the west but remained within the Reserve boundary, the A36's were spread out foraging, both inside and outside of the Reserve and the I15's were spread out across the Strait from the east end of the Reserve. Passengers enjoyed watching as Pacific White-sided Dolphins moved back and forth around the orcas and our boat. It was on the way home that Dall’s Porpoises travelled beside the boat bowriding on two occasions, exciting everyone on board. A glorious rainbow appeared arching across Johnstone Strait as we neared the Pearse Islands, ending a beautiful afternoon of viewing.

Other species observed: Numerous Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

August 4, 2004
Yesterday on our whale watching tours, a Transient orca (T14) and two Humpback Whales were sighted.

Numerous pods of orcas came back into the strait overnight and have been reported this morning, August 4, heading east beyond the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. It is believed that they the: A4's, A5's, A12's, A36's, A30's and I15 pods.

The experience: On the morning tour, T14 was sighted entering Blackfish Sound through Blackney Passage, he was moving steadily in the ebb tide and was soon at the top end of Blackfish Sound heading west. Two Humpback Whales were sighted off the Baron Reefs near Cracroft Point. One was a small juvenile and was seen briefly, there was some very good sightings of the the larger Humpback Whale. On the afternoon tour, passengers enjoyed viewing a Humpback Whale and numerous Dall’s Porpoises.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring & California Gulls.

August 2, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the B7 Pod.

The experience: During the morning tour, a large group of orcas (possibly the A4's, A5's, A36's, I15's, A12's and A30's) were finally located to the far west, heading west beyond Port Hardy at Browning Passage while the B7 pod was sighted to the east off Port Harvey. Both sightings were well out of range for viewing for the morning tour at the time that they were sighted. Passengers on the morning tour observed a juvenile Humpback Whale feeding near to Stubbs Island in Weynton Passge, they also enjoyed the viewing of Pacific White-sided Dolphins (80-100+). On the afternoon tour, passengers observed orcas heading across Johnstone Strait from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve near to Boat Bay. The B’s had arrived back from the east where they had been travelling from in the morning, two remained inside of the Reserve while the others travelled briefly to the east then back into the Reserve. It was especially exciting to see B14 with a new calf (her first) from a distance away. Passengers observed as the B’s continued to travel to the west after finally leaving the Ecological Reserve. For much of the tour, Pacific White-sided Dolphins+++ were present nearby the boat, or with the orcas.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Pacific White-sided Dolphins+++, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

August 1, 2004
It was a truly remarkable day for viewing orcas in area. The pods that were sighted today were the: A12's, A36's, A5's, A4's and I15's. The B’s were also in Johnstone Strait today but further to the east.

The experience: Passengers encountered their first sighting of orcas, they were travelling west, nearing Lizard Point on Malcolm Island when they turned and began heading east. They were the A34's, A-Clan vocals were clearly heard. We continued on further west, and a large group of Pacific White-sided Dolphins (100+) passed us, heading quickly to the east. It was west of Lizard Point that more orcas were sighted, they were resting, travelling slowly east. It was at this point that we hoisted sails and commenced to sail for the rest of our time with the orcas, begining west of Lizard Point and ending at Little Hanson Island, where we started our engine and headed for home via Blackfish Sound. Sailing quietly with the orcas, passengers enjoyed a quiet time, observing as the orcas travelled in a resting line towards Donegal Head. The A5's, A4's, A12 and A33 were in the lead with the I15's and A36's trailing. It looked as though they were all headed for Blackfish Sound when near Stubbs Island, the A4's, A12 and A33 with the A5's surfaced nearby our boat as we sailed with the wind and flood tide through Weynton Passage, the I15's and A36's trailed behind. Once into Johnstone Strait, the orcas who had been silent all morning began to vocalize and while trailing our hydrophone, A & G-Clan calls could be heard. It was an amazing and exciting experience and the best sailing that we have experienced this summer.

Other species observed: Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring, California and Bonaparte’s Gulls.

July 31, 2004
It was an amazing day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait! The pods that were in the Strait today were the: A12's, A36's, A5's, A4's and I15's.

The experience: This morning the orcas were first sighted heading east near the Sophia Islands, they were the A4's, A5's and A12 pods. It was opposite "the cliff" that they began angling across the Strait, heading towards and into, the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Wind conditions made sailing possible and while the orcas travelled east and spent time at the rubbing beaches, passengers meanwhile experienced a quiet time of sailing while waiting for the orcas to move beyond the reserve boundaries. The orcas were soon heading back to the west and two other pods, the I15's and A36's, were reported heading into Johnstone Strait via Blackney Passage. Some porpoising, breaching and tail slapping behaviour was observed and some beautiful A-clan vocals were heard via the hydrophone. As the orcas headed west and the incoming orcas travelled east to meet them, pods could be seen spread all across Johnstone Strait. Extensive foraging was observed, and a westerly movement was taken by all of the pods for the remainder of the afternoon. While observing the I15's some G-Clan calls were heard and lastly, beautiful A-Clan vocals were heard from the A4's and A5's as they foraged along the Hanson Island shoreline. The viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring & California Gulls.

July 30, 2004
Today was a glorious day to be out on the water. The pods that were in the Strait today were the: A12's, A36's, A5's, A4's and I15's.

The experience: The timing was perfect! As we entered Weynton Passage and neared the outer island of the Plumper Islands, orcas blows and fins could be seen as the orcas moved towards us, travelling steadily in the flood tide. The viewing was exciting as the A5's, A4's, A12's and finally the A36's, proceeded on their way past the boat and into Johnstone Strait, all spread out travelling to the east. Wind conditions today in the Strait made sailing possible and passengers enjoyed their time sailing quietly along with the orcas. Trailing our hydrophone while sailing, some A-Clan calls were heard and the distant G-Clan calls from the I15's who were a short distance to the east away. It was at Cracroft Point that some extensive foraging and breaching behaviour was observed before they gathered into resting lines and slowly headed further east.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Bonaparte’s, Herring & California Gulls.

July 29, 2004
Today was another wonderful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. The pods that were in the Strait today were the: A12's, A36's, A5's, A4's and I15's.

The experience: On the morning tour, passengers sighted their first orcas as the orcas neared Big Bay on Hanson Island, they were headed to the east. As we neared the area, the pods were seen to be spread out across Johnstone Strait, some were headed directly east while others were seen crossing over towards the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. As they passed by, the viewing was exciting and passengers enjoyed listening to the A & G-Clan vocals. On the afternoon tour, the orcas were encountered near to Izumi Rock, all of the pods were spread out across Johnstone Strait, and heading back to the west. Passngers enjoyed viewing them as they foraged nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting, the A & G-Clan calls were wonderful to listen to. The orcas continued travelling to the west, the last sighting of them, as we headed for home, was abeam the Stephenson Islands and Beaver Cove. It was a remarkable afternoon for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Bonaparte's, Herring & California Gulls.

July 28, 2004
Today was an amazing day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. The pods that were seen were: the A12's, A36's, A5's, and A4's.

The experience: On the morning tour the orcas were sighted nearing Boat Bay, they were travelling to the west, the A12's were on the Cracroft Island shoreline while the A11's crossed over from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and began foraging ahead of the A12's at the Pig Ranch. It was exciting to see the A11's forage nearby as the boat sat idle and drifting; the A-Clan calls were wonderful to listen to. Everywhere that passengers looked, orcas could be seen, well spread out across Johnstone Strait in their family groups. On the afternoon tour, the orcas were encountered just east of Turn Point, they were heading west. The A24's were foraging close to the Hanson Is. shoreline and continued up as far as Weynton Passage before turning back to the east. The A35's crossed over to the Vancouver Island shoreline and joined all the other orcas, they all turned and began travelling back east. Passengers enjoyed some exceptional viewing when the orcas slowly passed by as the boat sat idle and drifting in wind conditions and then as the A35's passed under the boat surprising and delighting everyone. Wind conditions this afternoon made sailing possible and passengers enjoyed the experience of moving quietly with the A12's, A4's and A36's. Trailing the hydrophone, the A-Clan calls were clearly audible.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring & California Gulls.

July 27, 2004
Today was wonderful day for viewing orcas in Johnstone Strait. The pods that were in the area were the A12's, A36's, A5's, A11's, I15's and G17's.

The experience: A pod of orcas were sighted early in the tour, they were travelling to the east in Johnstone Strait just east of Turn Point on Hanson Island. This particular pod, the G17's, have not been sighted in Johnstone Strait this summer so it was very exciting to see them and "figure" out their identity. They were resting, and continued to move very slowly to the east. The other pods were all spread out across Johnstone Strait, some were in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, they were also resting. The A36's (the three brothers) were apart and were foraging, meanwhile, as the I15's went by in a resting line, some G-Clan resting calls were heard via the hydrophone. On the way home, we had Dall’s Porpoises join us, bow-riding as we cruised along! It was a delightful ending to a beautiful day on the water.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring & California Gulls.

July 26, 2004
On our whale watching tour this morning, two Humpback Whales were observed feeding in the flood tide in Weyton Passage. Passengers observed their blows from a distance away and as the boat neared the area, passengers were treated to some beautiful viewing, the lighting was superb. In Blackfish Sound there was an abundance of bird species on the water and the herring ball activity was quite remarkable with the various bird species feeding from below and above the water.

Other species observed: Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers, Herring & California Gulls.

July 25, 2004
On our whale watching tour this morning we saw three Humpback Whales in Blackfish Sound. We cancelled our afternoon tour due to the weather report of increasing wind conditions in Johnstone & Queen Charlotte Straits this afternoon. Gale force winds are not ideal for passenger comfort and safety and make the viewing and photography of Cetaceans extremely difficult.

Other species observed: Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers, Herring & California Gulls.

July 24, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's and the I15's.

The experience: Enroute to viewing the orcas, a small group of Dall’s Porpoises joined us, bowriding at the bow of the boat briefly, delighting all on board. Following this, the orcas were sighted near to Flower Island in Blackfish Sound, having travelled in from the east through Blackney Passage. They were well spread out and foraging, moving very slowly to the west. Light-moderate NW winds today made sailing possible the entire time that we were with the orcas and passengers enjoyed the experience of "moving quietly" with them as we tacked back and forth in the top end of Blackfish Sound. By trailing our hydrophone as we sailed, passengers were able to hear some A & G-Clan calls. It was especially exciting to have the A30's travel towards and under the boat as we sailed along. We left the orcas in Weynton Passage and as we headed for home, and as our passengers were partaking of their Devonshire teas, we all observed as the pods regrouped and began making their way back into Johnstone Strait via Weynton Passage. It was a truly wonderful day for viewing orcas in the area.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Black Turnstones, Herring & California Gulls.

July 23, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods:

The A12's, A36's, A30's, I15's and the I31's.

The experience: It was magical! What a beautiful day to be out on the water. Passengers sighted their first orca in the fog and before we knew it, more orcas were sighted, centre strait in Johnstone Strait, abeam of Izumi Rock in the sunshine! The pods were all spread out, resting and travelling very slowly to the west. The first pod to go by was possibly the A34's and then the I15's. The I15's were playful and resting and numerous spyhops were seen, their beautiful G-Clan calls were heard and then, some A-Clan calls as the A36 boys passed on by. It was wonderful listening to the A & G Clan calls as the pods vocalized back and forth. The pods turned towards Blackney Passage as they headed west, making their way into Blackfish Sound. A pod surfaced nearby at the outer edge of Little Hanson Island, they were the A34's. The leading pods seemed to pause in Blackney Passage as though waiting for the others to catch up. We saw the A36's pass by, A55 and A33, the I15's and as we sat drifting in the tide in Blackney Passage, the A30's surprised everyone by surfacing at the bow of the boat. It was brilliant viewing, and exciting for all on board. The I31's were the last pod to enter into Blackfish Sound, they were resting, travelling slowly. It was a beautiful ending to a spectacular day of viewing.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, A Humming Bird (like yesterday!), Herring & California Gulls.

July 22, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A12's and the A36's.

The experience: This morning the A36's were first sighted in the distance near the Whitecliff Islands. They were well spread out and foraging, A46 was in the lead, A32 and A37 were closer together, behind him. A few A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone They moved steadily past the Penfold Islets and it was adjacent to the south side of the Foster Islands that we left them in the fog. It was early afternoon when heavy fog descended, seemingly from nowhere, and we travelled back towards Donegal Head and into the sunshine at Weynton Passage. At the Sophia Islands in Johnstone Strait, the A12's were sighted; they had just arrived back from the east. They were also spread out and were foraging across the Strait. Their A-Clan vocalizations were wonderful to listen to and it was interesting to see them come together as a family from all directions, turn and then begin travelling back towards the east. It was a glorious day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, A Humming Bird, Herring & California Gulls.

July 21, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: The A12's and the A36's.

The experience: This morning the orcas were first sighted emerging from the fog on the north shore of Malcolm Island, well east of Lizard Point; it was wonderful listening to their blows as they drew nearer in the fog. A46 was travelling with A55, they were slightly ahead of the rest of the A12's; A32 and A37 were also travelling very slowly to the east, and very close to the A12's. As the fog shifted and lifted in places, the viewing was superb and passengers had some wonderful viewing when the orcas surprised them, passing under the boat as it sat idle and drifting. Passengers on the afternoon tour encountered the orcas at Izumi Rock in Johnstone Strait. Wind conditions made sailing possible and passengers enjoyed their time sailing quietly, mid Strait, over from the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. Some orcas were inside the reserve boundary while others remained outside. Three breaches were observed, some spyhopping and some A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone. A33 and A12 were observed travelling together along the Cracroft shoreline as the boat headed for home.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Herring & California Gulls.

July 20, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod:

The A1 Pod - The A36 Matriline lost its Matriarch, A36, in 1997. It now only consists of her three sons and will there-fore die out in time. A32 (40 years), A37 (27 years) and A46 (22 years).

The experience: The A36's were first sighted near to Izumi Rock, they were well spread out and foraging very slowly to the west. Light SE winds this morning made sailing possible in Johnstone Strait and passengers enjoyed the thrill of sailing while viewing orcas. A37 and A32 foraged nearby the boat, A46 was a distance behind, foraging at Cracroft Point and then while foraging off the bottom of Hanson Island, he was joined by two Pacific White-sided Dolphins who continued to play around him as he foraged. He headed over to the Vancouver Island shore while A32 and A37 foraged parallel to him on the Hanson Island shore. They were still foraging and heading west past Blinkhorn when we left them in the afternoon. While being silent most of the time, some beautiful A-Clan vocals and echolocations from the A36's were also heard.

Other species observed: Dalls Porpoises, two Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murres, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Black Turnstones, Herring & California Gulls.

July 19, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the: A12's & A36's pods.

The experience: It was another beautiful day to be out on the water and began with the sighting of a glorious rainbow just as we left the dock this morning. Passengers first encountered the A12's travelling east of Lizard Point. A12 and A33 were well out in front, the A34's were behind; some foraging, spyhopping and breaching behaviour was observed. It was interesting to see A34's new calf lagging behind and then to see A34 stop and rest and wait with A74, and to see the new calf nuzzling between A74 and A34. Some beautiful A-Clan calls were heard via the hydrophone and also above the water. Mark, a passenger on board the boat, reported seeing three other orcas coming into view at Lizard Point, they were the A36 brothers and they continued to travel to the east also. The orcas moved in the flood tide through Weynton Passage, A33 and A12 were well in the lead, A55 was seen to join the A36's as they entered Johnstone Strait. A34 and the rest of her calves entered Johnstone Strait travelling close to Weynton Island and spent time in the Bull Kelp at the edge of the Island before continuing into Johnstone Strait. A Humpback Whale had been sighted in Weynton Passage and passengers later viewed two more Humpback Whales feeding extensively in the flood tide in Weynton Passage. Several Herring Balls were seen in the near vicinity of the Humpback Whales, with numerous seabirds also feeding from them! As the Humpback Whales dived deep, the appearance of their flukes marked a magical ending to a beautiful day of viewing.

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles White-Winged Scoters Marbled Murrelets, Herring and Bonaparte Gulls.

July 18, 2004
On our whale watching tours today, we observed the following pods: The A12's and the A36's.

The experience: It was another beautiful day spent out on the water! Passengers on the morning tour sighted three Humpback Whales enroute to viewing the Orcas. Two Humpback Whales were travelling together, the third Humpback Whale travelling alone was in close proximity to the others. They were magnificent to see. The Orcas were well spread out, foraging in the Queen Charlotte Strait, moving slowly east and then turning back to the west, before turning east again with the tide change. A32 and A37 were travelling together foraging while the A12's were all spread out, A46 and A55 were also foraging together. When they turned back to the east the A12's were grouped together in a resting line, A37 and A32 were together while A46 and A55 travelled a distance behind. On the afternoon tour, passengers enjoyed a small group of Dall’s Porpoises bowriding briefly; several more small groups were sighted frequently while on tour. The A12's and the A36's were travelling east in the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, A32 was foraging more centre Strait outside of the Reserve, angling to the west, as was A37, enabling passengers some beautiful viewing. The A-Clan vocalizations were wonderful to listen to.

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Common Murre, Bald Eagles, White-Winged Scoters and Herring Gulls.

July 17, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A1 Pod - The A36 Matriline lost its Matriarch, A36, in 1997. It now only consists of her three sons and will therefore die out in time. A32 (40 years), A37 (27 years) and A46 (22 years).

The experience: Today was one of the most beautiful experiences of the season and passengers on board, were treated to some exceptional viewing. Light fog drifted briefly across Bold Head and as it cleared, two Humpback Whales were sighted travelling together slowly, a Minke Whale was also sighted nearby. The A36's were sighted off in the distance, foraging out from Lizard Point. As we neared the area, with the tide turning to flood, the brothers grouped together and began travelling very slowly to the east. It was wonderful to see them pass nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting in the tide. The viewing was breathtaking with the Coastal Mountain Range making a beautiful backdrop to the Orcas and the two Hump-back Whales who were all in close proximity to each other; the Orcas travelling east and the Humpback Whales making their way slowly west.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, One Minke Whale, Dalls Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles and Herring Gulls.

July 15, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A1 Pod - The A36 Matriline lost its Matriarch, A36, in 1997. It now only consists of her three sons and will there-fore die out in time. A32 (40 years), A37 (27 years) and A46 (22 years).

The experience: It was a beautiful day to be out on the water! As the fog cleared, passengers on the morning tour were delighted to see three Humpback Whales feeding near to Flower Island in Blackfish Sound; Dall’s Porpoise were also nearby feeding. The A36 brothers were sighted just east of Lizard Point, they were spread out and foraging extensively. Passengers on the afternoon tour first sighted the orcas near the Penfold Islets, they were travelling to the east, A46 was in the lead and A32 and A37 were travelling together, a distance behind. A Humpback Whale was also seen in the distance. A46 continued to travel far in the lead, foraging as he went, while A32 and A37 continued to forage together, well behind. The lighting was superb and passengers enjoyed listening to some beautiful A-Clan calls when A32 and A37 stopped to forage nearby the boat as it sat idle and drifting in the tide. A second Humpback Whale was sighted in the distance near to Donegal Head, and was possibly the same one seen later, feeding near to Weynton Island as we headed home. It was a beautiful ending to a lovely day spent on the water!

Other species observed: Three Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoise, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in the nest, Harlequin Ducks, A Humming Bird, Herring & California Gulls.

July 14, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, passengers enjoyed the viewing of a Humpback Whale and two Minke Whales. The A12 pod of orcas were reported to be to the far east in Johnstone Strait, heading east.

The Experience: The fog cleared quickly this morning and the visibility was good for viewing. In Weynton Passage, several Dall’s Porpoise joined us, bowriding the boat, as we cruised along. We sighted a Humpback Whale near to Bold Head and observed it feeding and making its way slowly east in Blackfish Sound. A Minke Whale was sighted later, also near to Bold Head, while a second one was sighted near to Donegal Head and was likely to be the same one that we encountered briefly again on our way home. We travelled back through several scenic waterways, enjoying the viewing of Bald Eagles and their nests and other marinelife. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water!

Other species observed: A Humpback Whale, two Minke Whales, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Common Murre, Bald Eagles, large flocks of Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Harlequin Ducks, Herring and Mew Gulls.

July 13, 2004
On our whale watching tours today we did not see any Orcas. We did however, get to view a Humpback Whale and two Minke Whales. The A12's were to the far east in Johnstone Strait, heading east.

The Experience: It was a very foggy morning. We travelled up into Blackfish Sound and as the fog cleared we sighted a Humpback Whale and a Minke Whale feeding near to each other. The viewing was quite wonderful. We saw a second Minke Whale on our way home. On the afternoon tour we sighted the Humpback Whale at Blackney Passage as it began travelling back up into Blackfish Sound. The lighting was spectacular with lightening flashes and thunder, some rain on the way home and a beautiful rainbow appeared as we neared the dock in Alder Bay.

Other species observed: A Humpback Whale, Two Minke Whales, Dall’s Porpoise, numerous hauled out Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Numerous Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, large flocks of Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, White-Winged Scoters, Herring and Mew Gulls

July 12, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A1 Pod -A12 Subpod- The Matriarch A12 (63 years), her son, A33 (33 years) and daughter A34 (29 years), A34's five offspring, her son A55 (14 years) her daughter A62 (11 years), A67 (8 years) A74 (4 years) and her new calf.

The Experience: Passengers sighted their first orcas on the Vancouver Island shoreline, just west of Izumi Rock, they were travelling to the west foraging along the shoreline. As we neared the area we were able to identify the two orcas as being A12 and her grand daughter, A62. They continued to forage as far as the Bauza Ilets. A33 was foraging centre Strait while A34 and some of her calves travelled west along the Hanson Island shoreline, parallel to the others; A55 and A74 were together foraging, crossing over to the V.I. shore ahead of their mother A34 and other sibblings. The A-Clan vocalizations were wonderful to listen to, as well, some echo locations were also heard.

Behaviour observed: Mostly foraging and resting behaviour, some small breaches by the younger calves were also seen.

On the way home a Humpback Whale was seen and numerous hauled out Harbour Seals.

Other species observed: A Humpback Whale, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, White-Winged Scoters and Red-Necked Phalaropes.

July 10, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A1 Pod -A12 Subpod- The Matriarch A12 (63 years), her son, A33 (33 years) and daughter A34 (29 years), A34's five offspring, her son A55 (14 years) her daughter A62 (11 years), A67 (8 years) A74 (4 years) and her new calf.

The Experience: We cruised along the Malcolm Island shore and as the fog cleared, we sighted the orcas as they travelled in very slowly from the west, just east of Bere Point. They were travelling in a resting line, no vocals were heard. It was beautiful lighting in which to view the family group and to identify the individual orcas as they passed by. On the way home a Minke Whale was sighted near to Stubbs Island.

Other species observed: A Minke Whale, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, One Great Blue Heron, Red-Necked Phalaropes and Herring Gulls.

July 9, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's and the A4 pods.

The Experience: We encountered the orcas travelling in a long resting line, just east of Cracroft Point, moving slowly east, close along the shoreline. It was beautiful to watch as they passed by undisturbed a distance away. It was also good to see the respect and space shown to them by all mariners who watched their slow progression quietly from a distance. In Blackfish Sound a Humpback Whale was observed feeding, working its way along the Swanson Island shore and Dall’s Porpoises were also sighted in Blackfish Sound. We toured home via some island waterways enjoying the scenery, viewing a Bald Eagle in its nest and passing some Harbour Seals swimming in the water; we later saw several hauled out Harbour Seals on the Stephenson Islands.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, White-Winged Scoters, Pigeon Guillemots, Several Bald Eagles, Several small flocks of Red-Necked Phalaropes, Harlequin Ducks, A Humming Bird and Herring Gulls.

July 8, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's and the A36's.

The Experience: We encountered the A30's in Weynton Passage, they were resting, travelling very slowly with the tide. The A36's were further to the west and headed out into the Queen Charlotte Strait. Both pods were resting, no vocalizations were heard. While the A36's headed further west in the Queen Charlotte Strait, the A30's continued to rest, travelling in the vicinity of Cormorant Channel. A Humpback Whale was sighted and spent the morning in the vicinity of Weynton Passage, a Minke Whale was also observed nearby and Dall’s Porpoise were also seen feeding. Passengers enjoyed the visuals of all four species of marine mammals being in close proximity to one another. On the way home we travelled through some island waterways viewing a Bald Eagle in the nest and several hauled out Harbour Seals and their pups.

Other species observed: One Humpback Whale, A Minke Whale, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Several Bald Eagles, Several small flocks of Red-Necked Phalaropes, Black Oyster Catchers, Herring and Mew Gulls.

July 7, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pod: The A1 Pod -A12 Subpod- The Matriarch A12 (63 years), her son, A33 (33 years) and daughter A34 (29 years), A34's five offspring, her son A55 (14 years) her daughter A62 (11 years), A67 (8 years) A74 (4 years) and her new calf.

It is also possible that another pod was present but due to fog/misty rain conditions in the morning, it was difficult to know for sure.

The Experience: We encountered the orcas in Johnstone Strait as they travelled west along the Hanson Island and Vancouver Island shorelines. There were two small groups on either shoreline, all were spread out and foraging with some intensive foraging observed in Beaver Cove and by the Stephenson Islands. It was wonderful listening to some beautiful A-Clan calls and echolocations as they foraged, and then as they turned and headed west through Weynton Passage; they continued west along the Malcolm Island shore.

Passengers enjoyed viewing two Humpback Whales travelling slowly in the top end of Blackfish Sound. A Minke Whale was sighted and travelled slowly through a narrow Island waterway, giving passengers some priceless viewing in a very picturesque setting. We travelled back through several waterways, observing two Bald Eagles in a nest, one was repositioning branches with its beak. It was quite a remarkable day to be out on the water.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, A Minke Whale, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Pigeon Guillemots, Several Bald Eagles, 6 Great Blue Herons, Herring and Mew Gulls.

July 6, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A4's, A5's, A12's and the A36's.

The experience: It was a beautiful day to be out on the water. Passengers enjoyed touring through the Plumper Islands on their way to viewing the orcas who were well spread out in Blackfish Sound, in their family groups, heading to the west. It was exciting to listen to their A- Clan vocals, some echolocations were also heard. The orcas were travelling, some foraging and spyhopping behaviour was also seen. A Minke Whale was observed feeding nearby and on the way home, two Humpback Whales were also sighted. Their blows were visible from a long distance away and the viewing was superb!

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, One Minke Whale, Dalls Porpoise, Hauled out Harbour Seals and their pups, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Surf Scoters, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Bald Eagles, Herring and Mew Gulls.

July 5, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A30's and the A36's. The A12's were also in the near vicinity while other A Clan pods were to the far east of the Robson Bight Ecological Reserve.

The experience: On the morning tour, passengers observed the A30's travelling slowly in Blackfish Sound, they were behind the A12's who had cleared into Johnstone Strait at Cracroft Point earlier. The two Humpback Whales sighted prior to the orcas, circled back down through Blackfish Sound, passing nearby the boat as it sat idle in the tide. Passengers on the afternoon tour enjoyed viewing the A36 brothers as they foraged off Lizard Point. A few A Clan Vocals were heard and ecolocations as they foraged nearby. On the way home, the two Humpback Whales were sighted in Johnstone Strait and entered into Weynton Passage as we observed them. The early evening lighting was spectacular! A small group of Dalls Porpoise joined us briefly at the bow of the boat as we headed home.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, Dalls Porpoise, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Surf Scoters, Bald Eagles, Herring and California Gulls.

July 4, 2004
On our whale watching tour today, we observed the following pods: The A1 Pod -A12 Subpod- the Matriarch A12 (63 years), her son, A33 (33 years) and daughter A34 (29 years), A34's five offspring, her son A55 (14 years) her daughter A62 (11 years), A67 (8 years), A74 (4 years) and a new calf this year.

The A1 Pod - The A36 Matriline lost its Matriarch, A36, in 1997. It now only consists of her three sons and will therefore die out in time. A32 (40 years), A37 (27 years) and A46 (22yrs). The Experience: It was a beautiful day to be out on the water.

On our way to view the orcas we encountered two Humpback Whales feeding in the tide near to Donegal Head, we also observed a Minke Whale feeding.

The A36's and A12's were sighted west of Lizard Point, travelling to the east. A32 and A37 were together in the lead, A46 was with A55, A12 and A33 were travelling close behind and A34 with the rest of her calves were parallel, close to the Malcolm shore.

As they neared Donegal Head the A12's grouped together without A55 and passengers observed as A55 and A46 turned back from Blackfish Sound, as did A32 and A37 and they all headed into Weynton Passage.

It was exciting to view a male orca as he breached twice and to listen to the A Clan calls and some echolocation via the hydrophone.

Other species observed: Two Humpback Whales, A Minke Whale, Harbour Seals, Rhinoceros Auklets, Common Murre, Pigeon Guillemots, Surf Scoters, Bald Eagles and Black Oyster Catchers.