September 11th

Johnstone Strait was blanketed in heavy fog as we headed out on tour this morning. Dark shapes along the way became defined as island shorelines as we drew nearer and as gaps of light began filtering through, our range of vision began extending further. It was just after viewing numerous Steller Sea Lions that a Humpback whale was sighted and shortly after, two more adult Humpback Whales suddenly appeared, one of whom was identified as Stripe, a Humpback whale who is regularly seen in the area. It was unbelievable luck to then suddenly glimpse the appearance of a large dorsal fin looming towards the boat, everyone onboard was thrilled, it was a brilliant sighting considering the foggy conditions. The adult male was identified as A38, the oldest surviving son of the Matriarch A30. Other blows were heard and A50 and her two calves were seen foraging, A72 was a distance from her mother and younger sibling. Suddenly, with the blink of an eye, the fog had departed, a curtain had been lifted and other members of the A30's were observed nearby. and as we watched they all made their way towards the entrance of Weynton Passage. We deployed the hydrophone and everyone listened, entranced by the stunning A-Clan calls of the A30's. At this point as they headed on east in Johnstone Strait, we parted company and headed for home, passing two more Humpback Whales on the way, along with hauled out Harbour Seals and a Pied Billed Grebe!. What more could we ask for!