A recent visit to Tofino was capped off with whale watching, a quintessential B.C. experience. Hosts Kati Martini and Don Travers of Remote Passages Marine Excursions have been stewarding the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound for nearly 30 years. Every March through October, the area is home to playful humpbacks and majestic grey whales, the latter of which have stopped by on their annual pilgrimage between Baja, California and the frigid waters of Alaska. Some, according to guides, have become regular summer residents of Tofino.
These beautiful mammals were not the only stars of the trip. The area is also populated with Steller and California sea lions, seals, sea otters, and a variety of seabirds, including tufted puffins and resident bald eagles. Feeling the ocean mist from the comfort of the open air Zodiac vessel and under the watch of a well-versed guide, we set sail for a memorable three-hour tour along fjord inlets, sheltered bays, and the open Pacific Ocean. From the first sight of a breeching whale piercing the brilliant blue waters, everyone was hooked.
