This afternoon our silver Orca Spirit boat set out on the Juan de Fuca Straight in search of marine species popular to BC's majestic coastline. We immediately set coarse southwest over calm seas and the sun shining from above. We caught sight of several Harbour Seals resting on some rocky outcrops along the way. The rocks they were laying on resided just below the surface, so the seals appeared to be lying on top of the water. They looked at us with curious glances as they enjoyed the sun warming up their fur. We continued our search west where we stopped at Race Rocks Lighthouse, a landmark since they first turned on its light on December 26th, 1860. Here we found female Elephant Seals molting atop the rocks. Elephant seals molt their coat once a year making them unique among most local seal and sea lion species. Guests enjoyed the sights of the large male Steller's Sea Lions who were lying among the islands, some chose to frolic in the water searching for an afternoon snack. Steller's Sea Lions are the largest sea lion in our area, weighing in at 2500 pounds. On the same island that the lighthouse stands, we saw a lonely California Sea Lion, one of the first to return from the sun coast of California. More Harbour Seals could be seen at Race Rocks, lying at the edge of the islets also enjoying the sun.

After a fantastic view of all the animals at Race Rocks we set out towards the east searching for more marine wildlife. We entered the waters of Haro Straight near San Juan Island, enjoying the picturesque view of Mount Baker in the distance. After rounding Discovery and Chattam Islands, we made our way over to Trial Island where a Bald Eagle was perched on a sign post. The Bald Eagles use the islands to rest and keep a watch out for potential prey. We headed back to the harbour just in time as the wind began to pick up from the west, creating small white caps in the distance. It was a day full of great views and lots of seal and sea lion species!

Laughs from below the sea: Have you ever seen a fish cry?
No but I've seen a whale blubber!