August 13, 2024 – Tuesday
The humpback whales did not disappoint today. During our nine hours of traveling, we were fortunate to witness 3 to 5 whales on six different occasions. Each sighting was a thrilling reminder of the majestic beauty of these creatures. Their graceful movements and powerful breaches left us in awe, making the journey even more memorable.
As we passed by Namu Harbour, we gathered some fascinating information about Namu the whale. In June 1965, fisherman William Lechkobit accidentally caught a 22-foot orca in his salmon net near Namu, BC. The net had become entangled in a reef, so Lechkobit cut it loose and found the orca and a calf in the morning. The bull orca slipped out of the net, but the calf stayed, so the bull returned. The calf was gone two days later, but the bull remained. Lechkobit sold the orca, named Namu after the village, to Ted Griffin, the owner of the Seattle Marine Aquarium, for $8,000. Named after his capture location near Namu, BC, he quickly became a beloved figure, captivating audiences with his intelligence and playful behavior. Namu’s presence raised awareness about orcas and their behavior, leading to increased interest in marine biology and conservation. His legacy highlights the complex relationship between humans and marine life, emphasizing both fascination and ethical considerations surrounding the captivity of wild animals.
Tonight, we find ourselves at Pruth Bay, part of the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area, the largest provincial marine protected area on the coast of BC. This pristine location is also home to the Hakai Beach Institute, a private research and conference center. The serene beauty of Pruth Bay provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation after a day filled with excitement.
As we settle in for the evening, it’s time to decide on a good day for our southward crossing of Cape Caution. That day could be as early as Thursday. However, because forecasts are ever-changing, we will not know for sure until Thursday morning. The anticipation of the journey ahead adds to the sense of adventure, reminding us of the ever-changing nature of our travels.
