Orcas Enjoy Winter In California

Turns out that not only humans are drawn to California. But whereas humans visit Disneyland and bask in the sun, orcas are in search of food – salmon to be precise.

There’s an official news release at The Center for Whale Research (they have great photos too).

Scientists think that the two resident orca pods from southern British Columbia and Washington State headed on their unusual migration south because of dwindling salmon supplies in northern waters. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. After all, we all need to eat to survive. Survival is good.

We’ll keep an eye out for news and report a return of these native orcas to our waters. In the meantime, there are plenty of other orca pods in the Johnstone Strait area. Thankfully.

kayaking on Canada's beautiful west coast

Georgia, a Sea to Sky Expeditions guide for 10 years, says:

Time to share some photos. After 10 years of kayaking, and many wonderful memories, I can't possibly fit them all here. But here are a few to give you a sense of why I've been guiding with Sea to Sky for 10 years (that's me on the left, master outdoor chef).

Kayaking according to guide Georgia

Ever wonder what motivates an outdoor guide? Check out what our long-time guide Georgia has to say.

The joy of kayaking:

• Serenity of the wilderness setting

• Feeling of achievement following a full day of activity, followed by delicious and nutritious food

• Enjoyment of creating meals that taste great and suprise guests

• Time to relax and take stock of what really matters in life

• Meeting new friends

• Sharing my passion for the outdoors and kayaking with others

• Teaching, learning, and developing all aspects of skills and self

• Developing trips that inspire others to 'Discover new realms in themselves and in nature'

• Abundance and variety of wildlife

• Feeling of connection with nature and others on trip

What is this world so full of care, we have no time to stand and stare.

Unless you are on wilderness trip that affords you the time to step out of your work box and reconnect through observing nature. The subtle changes in weather, tides changing, wildlife passing, playing. The rhythm of nature begins to breath within me and brings a feeling of peace to my soul.

To be part of sharing all this with others is an honor that I cherish year after year.