July 11, 2026 – As we left Friday Harbor we heard that some of the orcas on the westside of San Juan Island had turned to the north (T123’s). We made quick progress on the strong flood current and the back eddy of Spieden Channel meeting two humpback whales, BCX1057 “Divot” and her 2026 calf, near Battleship Island. We’re were able to sail alongside hearing the blows and watching the playful young calf. As they circled around we continued west to meet the T123’s mid Haro Strait. As we arrived they were involved in a harbor porpoise hunt which was quickly successful. Some calls on the hydrophone, spy hops by T123, and backwards swimming by the male, T123A. It was an incredible encounter in calm waters. As they resumed traveling east we sailed alongside and left them to explore Sentinel and Spieden Islands. As we began our BBQ supper we met the humpbacks again near Green Pt, Spieden Island. They continued north and again magical views in the calm waters and sunset colours. We returned to Friday Harbor via Low Island where we listened and watched the black oystercatchers with their evening social excitement.
