Today was one of those magical days on the water that leaves one speechless with wonder. Rain greeted passengers when they boarded the boats this morning and yet within moments everything changed; the sun began to shine and suddenly a rainbow arched across Cormorant Island behind the boats as we headed to the east. Looking east down Johnstone Strait the lighting was beautiful and there was a feeling of excitement and joy among passengers and crew. The orcas were traveling to the west from the Boat Bay Light, most of them were on the Cracroft Island shore, well spread out and stopping to forage along the way, the A12’s, A8’s, A24’s, A23’s and A25’s. A-Clan vocalizations were heard by passengers on both vessels, passengers on the SV Tuan enjoyed hearing some vocals from the A25’s above the water at one point without the hydrophone being deployed. Some quality viewing was observed of the A25’s. The behaviour today observed of the orcas was varied with tail slapping, pectoral slaps, breeching and half breeches, spyhopping as well some intense foraging, lunge diving and momentary resting. Touring back through the island waterways the scenic viewing was wonderful and two more wonderful arching rainbows were seen. The Stellar Sea Lions have arrived in mass with many new arrivals in the last few days. Large flocks of Red-necked Phalaropes (juveniles and males) have also arrived from the arctic tundra and were sighted today feeding in protected bays and among kelp forests. Other sightings today: Stellar Sea Lions hauled out 75 ++, Harbour Seals, Dall’s Porpoises, Rhinoceros Auklets, Red-necked Phalaropes ++, Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles and an Eaglet in the nest, Belted Kingfishers and California Gulls.