We’ve Declared Thursday a ‘Hump’ Day!

Guests today, both on our morning and afternoon trips, were thrilled to see so many Humpback whales cavorting in the waters just off Malcolm Island at Donegal Head.

What a treat to bear witness to these large, graceful creatures foraging in the their own back yard, both at Donegal Head and near Stubbs Island. This morning’s passengers were even treated to the sight of a Humpback breaching – leaping right out of the water!

Along with Humpbacks, the fast-swimming, black and white Dall’s porpoises were observed both at Donegal Head and in Weynton Passage. So far, every trip out this season has included an opportunity to catch these lively porpoises in action.

Conditions remained flat calm for the entire day under partially cloudy skies, and it is especially beautiful when this region’s mountains and trees are reflected in the waters, as you cruise along on the ocean alongside them in the MV Seasmoke.

Some of our guests had never seen seals, and this made the tour especially wonderful for them, as numerous Harbour seals were taking in the sun on the small islets  of the Stephanson group of islands.

The larger brown and gold Stellar sea lions, frequently in the area this time of year, were also seen swimming and lounging near Donegal Head. Again, many water fowl were present, swimming in groups such as the Rhinoceros Auklet and the Pigeon Gulllemot. Eagles are still here, and passengers witnessed adult Bald eagles high up in a nest guarding a mottled brown  juvenile. By August, eagles will no longer be present in the areas we cruise in, as they’ll be heading to the rivers in search of spawning salmon.

Our skipper enjoyed the enthusiasm and excitement exhibited by today’s passengers, who all had a wonderful tour and came back wanting to share the day’s events. How lucky we are to reside so close to such a wealth of natural wonders!