August 2009
It was our lucky day. I had previously planned on whale-watching while in Victoria Island. But we witnessed a whale breach sooner than I expected.
We were traveling via Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Victoria Island. After only about 20 minutes into our journey, the ferry unexpectedly slowed down. There was already a commotion when the tour guide directed us to look to our right. That's when we saw a whale's black fin in the waters. I'm glad I didn't blink because this same orca suddenly rose straight up and showed its white belly. The awe-struck tour guide explained that this is called a "spy hop" -- when a whale rises above the ocean to search for its prey. Going after the seal it had found, the whale immediately dove back into the water, devoured its dinner, and then vanished just as swiftly.
The tour guide was quick to say that even he had never seen this first-hand. But it all happened so fast that I wasn't able to take a photo. Sorry.
However, we did manage to go on an official whale-watching adventure while in Victoria. That's how we spotted Ruffles. Look closely at his fin and you'll understand how he earned his nickname.
His crooked fin reminds you of Ruffles Potato Chips.
We joined a small group via this tour company.
Jeff, the owner and tour operator of Emerald Sea Adventures
Up close and personal with a killer whale.
Feeling more like an astronaut rather than a whale watcher.
We also found these seals that were "thermal regulating."
Translation: sun-bathing.
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