Olivia | M/V Sea Lion | August 4th, 2020 | 17:30
After seeing the T018 family group of Bigg’s Killer Whales on our 13:00 trip, Captain Sarah and I were determined to see them before they moved out of range in order to provide our sunset passengers with the same opportunity. This meant a very quick dock talk and off we went heading north through San Juan Channel, crossing up President’s Channel, and aiming for Sucia Island. On the southeast side of Sucia, we saw the large dorsal fins emerging from Fossil Bay. They traveled the southern side of the island and west towards Patos Island. A harbor Seal was bobbing in the middle of the water not 600 yards from where these transient orcas were milling, keeping us all on our toes.
All the while, we watched from about 200-250 yards away as they swam in the golden sunset rays and the calm waters of the Salish Sea. Shutting off our engines, we sat still and quiet watching as they breathed and rolled near our vessel offering everyone the ever-awe-inspiring moments we hold onto. The moments that give us a sense of connection and clarity. The moments we feel similar to another species as we see them react to their family in the same way as we do. These are the moments we want to give others, so they feel the bewilderment of our world and want to fight for it just as we do. Come join us and experience the wonders of the Salish Sea.