Summer has finally came to Victoria, which made today’s trip an awesome day to be on the water! We cruised out of the harbour on the Orca Spirit, heading east towards San Juan Island. We had to make our way north along the western shores where we discovered members of J-Pod in resting state. Orcas like other marine mammals are not automatic breathers like ourselves. They have to think about every breathe they take. So in order for orcas to be able to sleep and breathe, they shut down one half of their brain and use the conscious half to control their movements and surface for air. The interesting fact about our sleeping whales on this trip, is that the whales were moving against the current, not something we witness often while they are resting. It was not long after we stopped to watch the whales when they began to wake up. We saw some active behaviour that thrilled all on board! We saw some spy-hopping, tail slapping and lots of rolling! The females grouped up behind the island corner to avoid the strong current and have a little spa treatment amongst the bed of bull kelp. Orcas love to feel kelp flutter against their skin- how relaxing! Two young males tried to head out into the current, but didn’t get far before returning to their female family members!

After a great afternoon with the southern residents, we headed west and found some healthy harbour seals enjoying the afternoon sun amongst the rocks of the Chain Islands. We also spotted a pair of eagles perched high in the trees on Chattam Island….love birds! A wonderful day on the Salish Sea was had by all.