Be Optimistic

Transient Orcas in the Haro Strait. Photographed by Mark Malleson of Vancouver, B.C.

Yesterday began without an orca sighting, but this didn't discourage our optimistic guests. They truly understood how unpredictable wildlife can be and we believe it was this understanding and optimism that gave them their sighting.

We began our voyage heading north toward Speiden Island. We saw a few Mouflon Sheep, but there was a dense covering of sea smoke, making wildlife difficult to spot. The porpoises were swimming about, but didn't seem to be in a playful mood. The crew was determined to find our guest whales and darted over to Gooch Island in search of them. Although we saw no whales near Gooch, our guests refused to get discouraged. They had an insatiable desire to learn about our wildlife and we think the whales caught on. As soon as we left Gooch we heard reports that Transients were spotted near Cattle Pass, a few miles south of our position. We booked it down the west side of San Juan Island and showed up just in time for our guests to get some great shots of T-14 and friends. We hung out with the whales and then went back to Friday Harbor via Cattle Pass. On our way we saw some Stellers hauled out on the rocks as well as a few Harbor Seals.

Our experience yesterday proved good things come to those who wait. Until next time...