Kelly| M/V Sea Lion | 3/26/22 | 12:30
We left the harbor with one firm whale report, a group of Biggs Killer whales by Sidney Island traveling north. The transient group was quickly heading out of our range, so we did our best to scurry out of the harbor and head their direction. It took us about an hour to arrive at their approximate location, but it was well worth the wait. We quicky discovered that there were multiple family groups traveling together:
T049A’s, T049B’s, T077D & T077E
12 whales total in area! We had our best looks at the T049A’s. Keeping a respectful 200-yard distance, we watched as this group of 5 surfaced in unison. The large male T049A1’s (nicknamed Noah) 6-foot dorsal fin towering over his mom and younger siblings. After displaying what could have been sleeping behavior, the whales quickly changed course, zigzagging the area. One whale rose its head and pec fins vertically out of the water in a behavior known as a Spyhop, the entire boat erupted in excited cheers. Again, the whales changed direction, we stopped the motor and floated in silence. The group passed right by our bow! As the large male surfaced (T049A1) we caught a glimpse of a harbor seal kill hanging from his jaws! The rest of the group passed by our stern and the entire boat was buzzing with excitement.
Next, we stopped by Spieden Island. Large groups of Mouflon sheep were grazing along the south side of the island, bald eagles soared and perched along the treetops. We let the current slowly pull us southeast down the island at a relaxing pace. As we reached the islands southern tip, we witness over 50 Steller sea lions swimming in Spieden channel. These giant sea lions performed acrobatic maneuvers around of vessel giving us some great glimpses of their large bodies under the water. It was by far the greatest looks I’ve ever had at this impressive species. It was a trip full of incredible wildlife encounters! Thank you to everyone that joined us on this eventful spring day!