We headed far east, as J Pod decided to head west.

After hearing word that some members of the Southern Resident Community were in Rosario Straight, heading south, we jetted south around Lopez Island to meet up with them. We thought maybe the residents would start heading west, and we could meet them as they headed towards us. However, being the wild animals that they are, the orcas rarely follow our predictions. We travelled all the way to Fidalgo Island and watched members of J Pod travel south, close to shore.
So maybe they were actually going to continue south. Wrong! Suddenly, without warning, one by one orcas started heading straight towards our boat! We had no time to get out of the way, and watched as J 26, Mike, passed closely behind our stern. Then, after the oncoming orcas passed by, we re-engaged our engine to get out of their way. J42, the youngest member of J Pod, was her usual self today. She breached over and over, seeming to enjoy herself as she always does.
We had some fantastic views of J Pod as they decided to head west. This decision made by the orcas to head west delighted our second group of guests on our sunset tour because they were able to catch views of J Pod travelling north up the western side of San Juan Island as the sun gleamed over calm evening waters.

We had two excellent orca-viewing adventures today!

Ashley, Naturalist