It Was A Day Of Awesome Wonder

It was a perfect day in every way. The water was calm and large fluffy white clouds filled the sky almost entirely were it not for small patches of blue sky peeping out to humour us, and the sun as well. After yesterday's deluge of heavy rain falling on all parts of the North Island and cooling temperatures we felt optimistic that summer was returning. 

Once we were underway on tour this afternoon our passengers realized that there was so much to look at in all directions. Our sightings were made easy because of the calm sea state and the number of cetaceans, seabirds and bait balls in the area that we travelled. All of them were seen in a relatively small area at the top end of Blackfish Sound and in Weynton Passage.

We could not ask for any better viewing of both the Orcas and Humpback whales. It took us by surprise and was totally unexpected that the A30’s would give us the wonderful close viewing that they did. While observing them travelling north from Donegal Head in the direction of the Foster Islands they suddenly made an abrupt turn around and headed back to the East and towards our boat, passing us close by. The engine was off and all we could do was watch in amazement while taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of them passing. They were magical and memorable moments for everyone on the boat that will not easily be forgotten.

We also encountered some 7-8 Humpback whales, all of them were feeding in the vicinity of Donegal Head and Stubbs Island. As well, today we also saw numerous Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Stellar Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers, Black Turnstones, Common Murres, Marbled Murrelets, Rhinoceros Auklets and Gull Species.

It was a delightful tour that left everyone spell-bound and wondrous of the natural beauty in their surroundings.