Orca - Killer Whale Tours on the West Coast - Tourism Victoria, BC

Ventured out over the weekend to experience the thrill of capturing a pod of Orcas off the coast of Vancouver Island and the San Juan Islands in the Juan De Fuca Strait. Over the years in tourism, when dropped off thousands of people for this half day excursion to experience a once in a life time opportunity. The funny thing is, I live here, and have for years and have never done this before, so I wanted to see what the thrill was and whether or not it is worth the investment. Approx $200 CDN per couple.

While there are several companies that offer this trip, they are pretty much equal in terms of what you are going to see and where you are going. We chose Orca Spirit Adventures. This three hour tour takes you through the San Juan Islands just off the south eastern tip of Vancouver Island. Of course, it depends where the recent sightings are so these tours can change daily. As it turned out, we hit the jackpot and ran into the J-Pod and thier first appearance in this area this season. What a thrill.

Dress warm, take a snack and of course your camera fully charge. Be patient, watch and don't miss anything. Take a ton of pictures and sort them out later. Don't bother looking at each shot as you will miss the next great one.

Here are just a couple I got late yesterday afternoon. The rest can be see on my website at:

http://westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/site/#/gallery/san-juan-islands-usa/orca6a/

Photo's by: Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com

Depending on how adventurous you are, you can select a large covered boat, or an open zodiac.  It comes down to wet or not wet.  Your choice.  The weather can change suddenly so be prepared for choppy waters as well.  I thought it was worth the trip, and a great way to spend an afternoon inVictoria,  Consider a tour yourself if you are visiting.  Alot about 4 hours in total for transportation, tour and return trip back to your hotel..

Orca: The Killer Whale

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