November continues to be relatively mild with less precipitation than normal, so it is a great month to see the amazing wildlife in these waters.The 1pm Zodiac left Victoria harbour under sunny skies with skipper James, 'Radar' at the controls. With a little texture on the water and minimal wind we headed south into the Strait of Juan de Fuca toward Constance Bank. We had visitors on board from New York, Ontario and Victoria. It wasn't too long before one of our passengers spotted an Orca, J1, affectionately called Ruffles. He was seen rising from the water not far from the Zodiac. He was alone and heading in from the west. We spent time with him, hoping to connect with the rest of J pod. There was no sign of them. A visit to Race Rocks Ecological Reserve gave our passengers good looks at Steller sea lions and Harlequin ducks. It wasn't until we were cruising back toward Victoria that several more members of J pod were seen. J 30 and J 33 were identified. Others were spread far out across the Strait. We left these magical creatures heading east. It was another exciting trip with Prince of Whales. Photos by Marie"Orca-Magic"
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