Four orcas, two humpback whales, many harbor seals, bald eagles, pigeon guillemots, and a few European farrow deer. All delightfully observed from aboard our whale expedition yacht, aptly named the Odyssey.
Orcas are highly intelligent, use language (clicks, whistles and squeals) to communicate, feel emotions, travel in small pods that are family units (a mother and her offspring) for life.
We were lucky to come across a family unit: mom (Sydney), son (Lucky) and two daughters (Rosie and ?). They can be uniquely identified by the shape of their saddle patches located just below their distinctive dorsal fin.
We watched as the orcas slowly surfaced for air and then dived again only to resurface a few minutes later for more air. Our Naturalist explained that the seemingly lazy movements indicated these orcas were in a sleep period. Since orcas drown if they don’t surface regularly for air, they have the ability to turn half their brain off at a time to sleep but continue to swim. In this mode, they seem like languid creatures.
After 20 minutes or so of watching the orcas from a respectful (and legal) distance of two hundred yards), the captain indicated that a couple of humpback whales had been spotted in Harrow Strait. We picked up speed and 15 minutes later, we found two humpback whales. We saw and heard the upward spray from their blowholes and watched as they surfaced and dove.
We had a happy, refreshing and interesting experience. Watching and learning about marine nature while standing on deck in the crisp breeze. We all enjoyed the fact that no paddling was required on this expedition.
Afterwards, we enjoyed drinks on the outdoor patio of the Downrigger and then moved to the Friday Harbor House for a sumptuous dinner.
I have no photos of the whales. The Naturalist onboard the Odyssey took many photos and will make make them available to us in about a week to 10 days. I will post them when available.