Wildlife extravaganza! Oct 28th, 2007.

Harbor Seals

Rhinoceros Auklet

Common Murre

Deer in Pedder Bay

Surf Scoters

Stellar Sealions

Bald Eagle and Gulls at Trail Island.

Pelagic Cormorants.

Passengers enjoying the wildlife extravaganza!

Race Rocks with Mt Olympus in the background.

Harbor Porpoise

Harlequin Duck

BaitBall

This afternoon we ventured out into the rich biodiversity of the Juan De Fuca Strait and witnessed all the wonders this incredible marine environment has to offer.

As we ventured out of the inner Harbor the first thing that struck the crew and passengers was the enormous amount of birds on the water, including Scooters, Gulls, Common Murre's, Rhinoceros Auklets!

We also noticed a large amount of Harbor Seals in the water, in fact we saw one every few hundred yards, proving there was an abundance of food in the water. Two Harbor Seals that we saw were resting amongst a patch of Bull Kelp. As we were watching the two Seals in the Bull Kelp we suddenly caught sight of Harbor Porpoise just behind the boat. So we sat and watched these second smallest of the Porpoise family, swim by.

Next we headed to Race Rocks where we saw several Stellar Sealions and many of them were playing in the water. As we were watching one particular group move towards out boat we suddenly caught sight of a lone Stellar with a large Salmon in its mouth and being harassed by several Gulls.

After spending time at Race Rocks we ventured into Pedder Bay and shortly after our arrival Ron spotted a Deer on the shore in one of the meadows. We also saw several more Harbor Seals as well as a group of Scooters fly by.

Then we headed over to Trial Island where we saw even more Harbor Seals on the rocks and also in the water. Whilst at Trial we also saw a large Bald Eagle perched on a post and also a Harlequin Duck close to the waters edge. We then had to return to the inner Harbor and it was sad to have to leave so much spectacular wildlife behind.

Unfortunately this proved to be the last trip of the 2007 season for Five Star but what a spectacular season it has been! Thank you to all our wonderful passengers for joining us on our countless adventure. We look forward to seeing you again next season for new adventures on the Salish Sea!