September 10, 2025, 3:30 PM - Through the Narrows into the Gulf Islands then out into the Strait

This afternoon we pushed off the dock aboard Kula, our semi-covered vessel, with eager eyes set on the Gulf Islands. To begin our journey, we slipped through the always-busy Dodd Narrows. This narrow channel is more than just a thoroughfare for vessels, it’s a place where humans and wildlife both converge. Boats of all sizes time their passage with the tides, while seals, sea lions, and porpoises use the rushing current to hunt fish swept along in the tide. On shore, those who prefer a land-based view can hike the Cable Bay Trail, which offers a beautiful outlook over the Narrows and a chance to witness this shared space between people and nature.

Not far beyond Dodd Narrows, our first tall fins broke the surface. It was the T019s, a small but easily recognizable family led by Nootka. The orca present were:

T019 Nootka ♀ (~1965)
T019B Galiano ♂ (1995)
T019C Spouter ♂ (2001)

Just west of Valdez Island, these three were travelling steadily, likely scanning for their next meal. Nootka is a remarkable hunter, her speed and precision are legendary among those who’ve spent time watching her. On one occasion, we witnessed her take her family from travel to hunting, to eating, and back to travel again, all in under five minutes! With efficiency like that, it’s no wonder this family is so successful.

After some quality time with the T019s, we decided to venture further out into the Strait, rounding to the east side of Valdez Island. From a distance we spotted splashing, and with that telltale excitement in the air, we turned to investigate. What we found was much more than three fins. It was a T-Party!

T-Parties, short for “Transient Parties,” occur when multiple families of transient killer whales come together. They are special moments to witness because these gatherings are as much about socializing as they are about hunting. Orcas use these occasions to strengthen bonds, exchange knowledge, and sometimes collaborate in the hunt.

This particular party took a little time to identify, but eventually we had the roll call:

T036A1 Tierna ♀ (2005)
T036A1A (2022)

T075B Pebbles ♀ (1995)
T075B2 Jasper ♂ (2015)
T075B3 Rubble ♂ (2017)
T075B4 Petra ♀ (2021)
T075B5 ♀ (2025)

T099B Holly ♀ (2007)

The group was clearly in the mood for more than travel today. We watched as they circled rocky outcrops, sending seals and sea lions into a frenzy, scattering in all directions. Although it didn’t appear that a kill was made during our time with them, the pursuit itself was fascinating to observe.

Among the T075Bs was a very special sight, their newest family member, only about a month old. Even at such a young age, the training to hunt begins almost immediately. While mothers will keep their calves safely between themselves and the prey, these chases serve as invaluable lessons. The calves watch closely, learning the movements, strategies, and coordination required to survive as a transient orca. With each adult capable of consuming around 300 pounds of food per day, efficiency and skill are critical. Not every hunt is successful, but the lessons learned during these early encounters are essential for the calf’s future.

After our unforgettable time “partying” in the Strait, we made a quick stop to visit some of the pinnipeds. Hauling out on a buoy, a group of Steller Sea Lions lounged in the sun, bellowing loudly to announce their presence. These giants are the largest of the sea lion species, with males reaching up to 2,800 pounds. They play an important role in the marine ecosystem, often sharing hunting grounds with orca, and occasionally becoming prey themselves. Watching them interact, from playful sparring in the water to squabbling over space on the buoy, is always a lively reminder of the diversity of life in the Salish Sea.

As we returned to the docks, one last familiar figure greeted us: Harold, our resident great blue heron. Perched patiently by the shoreline, Harold was focused intently on fishing, his stillness broken only by the lightning-quick strike of his beak. Great blue herons are master hunters in their own right, relying on stealth and patience to capture their meals. Over the season, Harold has become something of a dockside mascot, reminding us that remarkable wildlife can be found not just in open waters, but right at home in our harbour.

From the rushing waters of Dodd Narrows to the wild energy of a T-Party in the Strait, today’s journey offered us a window into the complex lives of the Salish Sea’s top predators. Along the way, we were reminded of the interconnectedness of this ecosystem, from sea lions and seals to herons and orca, each playing their role in the balance of life. Every trip offers something new, and today was no exception. It was a day filled with learning, excitement, and the privilege of sharing space with these incredible animals!

Enjoy the photos below taken by Marine Naturalist Hayleigh Hilbert.

Can you see the scars on T019C Spouter’s saddle patch?

Beautiful back lit blows from our T-party!

T099B Holly in the lead with T075B Pebbles just breaking the surface and T075B5 following.

T075B Pebbles in the lead, T075B4 Petra surfacing between and T075B2 Jasper behind them.

T099b Holly just peeking out of the water with T075B2 Jasper following.

T075B2 Jasper with T099B Holly surfacing behind.

T075B2 Jasper with T036A1 Tierna following.

T075B2 Jasper with T075B Pebbles in tow.

T036A1 Tierna with T075B2 Jasper following and T075B5 coming up in front of T075B Pebbles.

T036A1 Tierna with T036A1A at her side and T075B4 Petra surfacing behind.

Don’t mind us, the waters fine, come on in!

Harold, the Great blue heron fishing at the dock.

Author: Vanessa VereschahenSeptember 10, 2025WhalesComment