We left Friday Harbor with reports of a Minke Whale in Canadian waters. Under sunny skies and over glassy water we headed west. As we approached the area of the last sighting we slowed to a stop and shut down the engines. The passengers spread out along the rails and kept their eyes on the water. After fifteen minutes of scanning we saw the small whale surface about a quarter of a mile from the boat.
We watched it surface and saw that it was moving east. We idled parallel at about 300 yards and saw a half dozen good surfacings. After fifteen minutes it changed direction again we said goodbye to the Minke.
On the way home we saw Stellar's Sea Lions sharing a rock with some Harbor Seals. Everyone appreciated the beautiful weather and the Minke Whale.
Mike Oster
San Juan Safaris