July 28th

As we made our way north we were spoilt for choice, in front of us were a couple of humpbacks while to our right was a minke whale. Minkes, once a common sight in these waters have since dwindled in numbers since the population increase of the humpbacks over the last 10 years. To spot one at a distance is rare, but to get close enough to observe it for more than a couple of minutes is even harder. Considering our options we went after the humpbacks. This turned out to be a fantastic choice, not only did we get a spectacular view of the humpbacks tail flukes as they made numerous dives, but on the homeward journey the elusive minke crossed our path and we spent the next 20 minutes observing not just one minke but two swimming together! A really rare encounter! Other wildlife sighted throughout the day included harbour seals, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoises, bald eagles, black oyster catchers, a surf scooter, rhinoceros auklets and common murres.