Saturday, August 22, 2026

Today brought gorgeous conditions on the Bay, with calm waters and plenty of sunshine. We headed toward the open water in search of whales, spotting harbor porpoises and sea lions along the way.

The excitement began when two thresher sharks suddenly leapt from the water just feet from the bow! As we approached an area where salmon fishermen had gathered, we spotted a spout a few hundred yards away. We moved in for a closer look and watched as a humpback slapped its tail fluke against the surface.

A full-grown humpback then surfaced alongside the starboard side of the boat, giving everyone an incredible view—and a true sense of just how massive these animals are.

The bird activity was equally spectacular. Thousands of sooty shearwaters covered the area, foraging and resting on the water. It was an extraordinary sight and truly a birder’s dream.

By the end of the cruise, we had spotted three humpback whales, along with harbor porpoises, sea lions, thresher sharks, and an astonishing number of seabirds. Guests were over the moon after another unforgettable day on the water!