It was one of those quintessential West Coast mornings—calm waters, a gentle breeze, and a crispness in the air that hinted at the adventure to come. Our two boats set out from Nanaimo Harbour under a clear blue sky. With cameras ready and binoculars in hand, everyone aboard was filled with the eager anticipation that only a whale-watching trip can inspire. The waters surrounding Vancouver Island are rich with marine life, and today, it seemed like we were bound for something special.

Our journey began with both boats steering eastward, towards the Sunshine Coast. Before long, a shout from one of the guides broke the quiet—a trio of humpback whales had been spotted ahead! As we drew closer, the distinct shapes of their dorsal fins broke the surface. These weren't just any whales—our naturalists identified them as Anvil (BCZ0410), her calf (nicknamed "Rubber Duckie"), and an unfamiliar companion, later identified as Scuttle (BCX1795).

The whales were in a state of peaceful rest, slowly circling in the water. They moved gracefully, allowing us time to study their dorsal fins for identification. Anvil and Rubber Duckie stayed close, while Scuttle glided along nearby. There was something truly magical about watching them move in sync, mother and calf floating effortlessly alongside their companion.

But just as we were soaking in this tranquil scene, another whale demanded our attention—and this one was in no mood for rest.

A few hundred meters from our current location, a massive splash caught our eye. Fader (BCY0195), another familiar humpback whale, seemed to have some extra energy. Pectoral fins slapping the water, a series of dramatic breaches, and cartwheeling made it impossible to look away. The energy and power of these movements were mesmerizing, reminding us of the sheer strength and athleticism of these giants.

We spent several thrilling minutes with Fader, watching all of this activity at the surface in awe, and then enjoying our time still once the extra energy had run out and he continued travelling lazily through the water.

After spending time with Fader, both boats continued their journey across the Strait of Georgia. As we scanned the horizon, another humpback whale sighting soon followed—this time, a pair of whales named Zorro (BCX0380) and Ghost (BCX1333). Their calm demeanour seemed to mirror the serenity of the day. They surfaced gracefully, showing off their sleek bodies before disappearing into the depths once more.

But as we watched, something unexpected happened. Zorro and Ghost became curious about one of our boats. The two whales approached us, swimming close enough for everyone to get a clear view of their massive frames just beneath the surface. The sense of connection was palpable—an intimate moment between human and whale that felt almost surreal.

For a few minutes, Zorro and Ghost floated beside our boats, before they continued on their journey. It was a brief but beautiful interaction, a reminder of the intelligence and curiosity these animals possess.

While the semi-covered boat trailed behind, the open boat caught sight of a pod of transient orca, known as the T100s. The excitement on board was electric as the telltale black dorsal fins sliced through the water, a clear signal that we were in the presence of these iconic predators.

T100 Hutchins ♀ (1979)
T100C Laurel ♂ (2002)
T100F Estrella (2014)

The T100s moved with a fluidity and grace that belied their power. Watching them traverse the open water was both thrilling and humbling. Meanwhile, the open boat was having an entirely different, yet equally delightful encounter.

The semi-covered boat had stumbled upon Yakima (BCX2182) along their way, another well-known humpback, who was in a particularly playful mood. The passengers watched in awe as Yakima used a stick as a makeshift toy, letting it balance on their massive body, lifting it with their pectoral fins, and nudging it with her head. It’s not often that we see humpbacks engaging with objects in this way, and it was a treat to witness her playful side.

Soon after, the semi-covered boat joined the open boat to catch a glimpse of the orca before both crews turned back towards Nanaimo. But, of course, the ocean wasn’t quite done showing off its wonders for the day.

As both boats made their way back to Nanaimo, we were treated to one last incredible sighting. The semi-covered boat encountered a group of three humpbacks frolicking in the water together—Yogi (BCY0409), Kappa’s 2022 calf (BCX0158 calf 2022), and an unknown whale. Their playful behavior was unmistakable, as they twisted and turned in unison, seemingly enjoying each other’s company.

Update from the future! This unknown whale was cross matched to an animal we had only seen once before on our tours, without any photos captured: KEY0046!

Meanwhile, the open boat reunited with Yakima once again, this time witnessing more relaxed movements, a fitting close to an extraordinary day.

From the tranquility of Anvil, Rubber Duckie, and Scuttle, to the acrobatics of Fader, the curiosity of Zorro and Ghost, and the playful antics of Yakima and the trio, the day had been filled with unforgettable experiences. Each moment served as a reminder of the beauty and richness of the marine life that surrounds Vancouver Island, and how lucky we are to share these waters with these magnificent creatures.

And as we returned to shore, it was hard not to wonder what tomorrow might bring. In the waters around Vancouver Island, every day is a new adventure. Please enjoy all of the amazing photos captured throughout the day by the onboard Marine Naturalists Val Watson and Vanessa Vereschahen.

September 21, 2024 - A day spent with the T100s and 10 different humpback whales

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