Porpoises, Humpbacks and Orca

The MV Seasmoke cruised through calm waters this afternoon and evening, and every type of weather: sun, rain and fog were experienced throughout the day. Afternoon wildlife tourists enjoyed seeing five to six Humpbacks at Bold Head through the fog, where even with low visibility, their distinctive blows could be clearly heard. Both afternoon and evening, lots of Harbour seals were frequenting the Stephanson group of islets, swimming and lazing, and majestic Bald eagles were spotted here too.

For evening tourists, Johnstone Strait was the hotspot! Two Humpbacks were observed at Cracroft Point, foraging for food at the large bait balls and we all had a good look at them as they took numerous shallow dives amongst the Sooty Shearwater who were hovering over the same collection of small fish. Closer to Vancouver Island, a lone male Orca was swimming and not too far away were a mother and calf, members of an ‘I’ pod. Fantastic!

Most fun of all were the Dall’s porpoise that seemed to be everywhere we looked! At Cracroft Point and Weynton Passage - where they played at both the bow and stern of the boat, seeming to race with us through the calm, silvery evening waters. Three more Humpback were feeding in this are too!

What a wonderful day our for both afternoon and evening passengers. It is a great reminder to get out there and see just how beautiful our region is and how alive it is with such a variety of wildlife.