The Olympic Mountains were clearly visible as we exited Victoria Harbour on our morning tour. With their snow caps acting like a shinning beacon we headed south towards the US/Canada borderline. In the distance we spotted the blows of some Humpback whales.
Reaching up to 3m tall, the exhale of a Humpback whale is a great indication of the animal’s presence. We cruised over just in time to see one flick its tail into the air, heading for a deep dive. Calmly floating in the middle of the straight we waited for one of these ocean’s giants to resurface. Much to the whole boat’s surprise and joy, one Humpback whale surfaced right next to our Starboard side. The sound of its breath was captivating and the size of the Humpback whale was truly put into perspective.
It carried on its merry way past our boat and we were treated to a beautiful show of its tail before it disappeared into the ocean’s depth. There was at least 3 to 4 Humpback whales in the local area this morning and we spotted their exhales and tail flicks in all directions.
Before heading home, we stopped by Race Rocks Ecological Reserve.
Not only were the Steller and California Sea Lions as energetic as ever, we spotted “Harry Otter” the Sea Otter. He was adorably bobbing around in the Bull Kelp, rubbing his fuzzy face with his paws.
Harbour seals were another species which we enjoyed watching getting splashed by the ever encroaching tide while lying on the coastal rocks. Lots of wildlife to be seen!
Check out our Facebook Album for more amazing pictures of this day!