Monday, June 17, 2013

Island Mariner maintains its 100% success rate for seeing whales in 2013

Ten sailings into the 2013 season, and our Island Mariner passengers have seen whales on every trip.  This past weekend, June 14-16, we spotted several members of a transient pod, including the seldom-seen T103.  Transients normally travel in small pods of 6-7 animals, dine on warm-blooded marine mammals, and are infrequent visitors to the Salish Sea.

Saturday’s Bellingham Herald reported that conservation efforts to save the North Pacific humpback whale have resulted in a dramatic increase in sightings in Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  We’ve seen a humpback on one trip this season and we’ve spotted Minke whales on two occasions.  More whales in the area mean more chances for you to experience some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring animals in our region.

Governor Jay Inslee has declared June 2013 as Orca Awareness Month, a statewide effort to educate the public and take action to improve conditions for the survival of our Southern Resident Orcas.

With the summer season in full swing, our cruises are filling fast.  We had 100+ passengers on each of our sailings this past weekend.  While there is usually space for last-minute, walk-on passengers, we suggest that you call ahead (360-734-8866) or reserve your seats on our website.

Monday, June 3, 2013

100% in 2013!

We are 5 cruises into our 2013 season and our guests have seen whales on every trip.  This past weekend (June 1 & 2) was especially eventful, as our Saturday passengers witnessed the first meeting of the season between J and L pods.  Lots of excitement in the water and on the Island Caper!  Not to be outdone, our Sunday passengers spotted three whale species: orca, Minke and humpback.  And with the great weekend weather we just had, it just doesn't get much better than that.

Our next cruise dates are Saturday and Sunday, June 8th and 9th.  We begin our Friday cruises on June 14th.  There is space available on all three dates.  Book your cruise to adventure at www.orcawatch.com or call us at 360-734-8866 or 877-734-8866.