San Juan Safaris
Devon_EnglandmaryD 1 contribution Devon, England Sep 1, 2010I did the 'Whale Plane' from Lake Union Seattle. Forty five minutes on a fantastic small sea plane, with wonderful views. Went on smaller boat from San Juan safaris with only 12 on board. We left early as we were all on board to give us the best chance of seeing the orcas.We roared off very fast, which was very exciting. The naturalist aboard was very friendly and knowledgable - she had just come back from studying sea lions in the Bering sea. It all felt very personal, could ask whatever we wanted. On way out we saw Harbour porpoises with mother and baby, harbour seals and stellar sea lions. Then the orcas! Breathtaking and so exciting. Two came close enough to be identified.Didn't take photos as didn't want to miss any watching time! We were with them about an hour. They are just such beautiful creatures. Seeing them like that in the wild made me feel so sad for those in captivity.
On the way out I had mentioned that I really wanted to see a bald eagle and on the way back the naturalist asked for the boat to slow near a small island - and there was a bald eagle sitting on the end of a branch . She'd done this for me! perfect end to a perfect trip! Thank you San Juan safaris. I particularly appreciated the fact that there was genuine concern for the wildlife and wasn't just a money making exercise. I now have memories to last a lifetime.