Into the Mist with Humpbacks

Even though ‘Fogust’ is behind us we experienced the foggiest day so far this season. At times it felt like the warmth from the day was going to burn it away but the fog lingered and fiercely clung to both ocean and land .

As we slowly traveled at a speed where we could detect boats on our radar and logs in the water, we relied on our hearing to find animals. Even a small blow from a surfacing seal could be easily heard as our other senses were not as as useful in this limited visibility.

Signs of fall were all around, particularly as the Stellar sea lions continued to grow in large numbers, taking up numerous outcrops of rock and shoreline. We had a curious group who changed direction and approached our silently drifting vessel. All heads were above the water, their necks stretched skyward as they peered at us. We returned the gesture, delighted to see their sleek and graceful bodies move so elegantly in the water.

Dall’s porpoises were observed in numerous locations, with one group hitching a ride on our wake. At least ten Humpbacks were sighted today and in the fog their breath sounded particularly loud as they surfaced releasing an immense amount of air stored in their humongous lungs.

The ocean was like velvet, smooth and appeared as though it would be soft to the touch. Any animal, even the smallest of bird made a ripple that traveled across the sea, a footprint that seemed to last forever.

The islands and islets we traveled among were hidden like treasures by the dense salty air. It created a mystical scene where every corner we turned or point we arrived to offered a new surprise.

Although the fog stayed with us, the silence and tranquility spoke volumes as the gifts of nature continue t to simply take our breath away.