September 9, 2024, 10:30 am - Whales, Sea Lions, and Scenic Wonders

There’s something magical about heading out into the Salish Sea, the anticipation building as we venture into waters teeming with life. Our journey began with the boat going south, passing through the picturesque Dodd Narrows—a narrow and fast-moving channel known for its strong currents. As the waters opened up into the Southern Gulf Islands, the scenery transformed into a stunning mosaic of rocky shorelines, evergreen forests, and distant mountain peaks. The fresh sea air filled our lungs, and the rhythm of the waves set the tone for a day of exploration.

Our destination lay ahead: the Strait of Georgia, a hotspot for marine wildlife. It didn’t take long before our efforts were rewarded. There, in the open waters, we spotted the telltale blow of two humpback whales. They were Sherwina (BCY0961) and Bandit (BCX2081)!

Sherwina and Bandit seemed extra excited today. Their pectoral fins slapped the water rhythmically, sending sprays of water into the air. It was as if they were playing together, their huge forms moving gracefully yet powerfully through the sea. Watching whales this close always feels like an otherworldly experience—seeing them interact, hearing the occasional deep breath, and feeling the power of nature right before your eyes. Sherwina and Bandit seemed to be having fun, putting on a display that kept everyone aboard spellbound.

After spending some time with these gentle giants, we shifted our course toward another special spot: Stinky Rock. Aptly named, Stinky Rock is a popular haul-out for Steller Sea Lions and Harbour Seals, both of which could be seen lounging across the rocky outcrop. The sea lions, with their massive frames and deep, guttural roars, are always an entertaining sight. The Harbour Seals, on the other hand, were smaller and quieter, basking in the sun with their heads bobbing above the rocks. It was fascinating to witness the contrast between these two species, both equally at home in the rugged coastal environment.

As our day drew to a close, we made one final stop at the Gabriola Bluffs. The sandstone cliffs here are breathtaking, their faces carved over millennia by wind and waves into intricate formations. Above, cormorants could be seen nesting on the rocky ledges, their sleek black bodies standing out against the weathered sandstone. These seabirds busied themselves with rearranging nesting material and caring for their young, all while we admired the cliffs that have become a refuge for so much life.

Our tour of the Salish Sea was a perfect blend of wildlife encounters and scenic beauty. From the playful humpbacks and the boisterous sea lions to the peaceful nesting cormorants on the Gabriola Bluffs, it was a day filled with nature’s wonders. The Salish Sea, in all its wild splendour, continues to remind us of the importance of preserving these incredible ecosystems and the creatures that call them home. The onboard Marine Naturalists Des Poier and Vanessa Vereschehn captured some of these amazing moments which can be viewed below.

Sherwina’s pectoral fin. Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina’s pectoral fin and Bandits pectoral fin side-by-side. You can also see part of Bandits tail on the far right. Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina (right) and Bandit (right). Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit’s pectora fin as they lifted it into the air. Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit (front) and Sherwina (back) slapping their pectoral fins. Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit lifting their pectoral fin. Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina pooped! That’s what that red cloud is. Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit’s pectoral fin in motion, readying for a slap. Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina has striking white pectoral fins. Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina going for a dive in the waves. Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit (left) and Sherwina (right) diving in sync. Look at the size difference! Photo by Des Poier.

Sherwina slapping her pectoral fin. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

A look at the corner of Sherwina’s Tail fluke. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

The underside of Bandit’s tail. All those circular scars are from Barnacles. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

Steller Sea Lions on Stinky Rocks. Photo by Des Poier.

Bandit (left) and Sherwina (right) diving together. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

A fluke waterfall from Sherwina. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

Bandit going for a dive. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

A gull perched on the sandstone formations. Photo by Des Poier.

A cute Harbour Seal on the rocks. Photo by Des Poier.

A very photogenic Steller Sea Lion. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

A Steller Sea Lion on the interesting sandstone formations. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

Steller Sea Lion on Stinky Rocks. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

Harbour Seals enjoying the sunshine. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

The cormorants on the Gabriola Bluffs. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.

Cormorants in their nest. Photo by Des Poier.

Content Warning: Dead Bird

A dead Cormoant at the bluffs. Photo by Vanessa Vereschahen.