There is no better way to see the Southern Resident killer whales than while sailing aboard the Tall Ship THANE. Although we do see them often, the likelihood of seeing the killer whales aboard THANE is less than it is aboard a whale watching vessel.

There are a number of reasons for this. Whale watching vessels travel at speeds up to 40 km/hour and travel up to 60 km . We are under sail and our speed and destination is determined by the weather and tide. Whale watching companies focus on finding the whales and getting out to see them. They have a communication network of spotters ashore, afloat and in the air with high-powered telescopes tracking the whales. We are going out to enjoy an afternoon sailing and see whatever comes our way.

(Photo courtesy Linda Rose)

We don't chase the whales, we set sail and if they are in our vicinity we sail with them. We will not change our course or motor along with the whales. If we see them in the distance we may decide to position ourselves for a sail past.

(Photo courtesy Linda Rose)

The Southern resident killer whales, J K and L pod, are a unique species of killer whale that have a lived and hunted in the waters around Victoria for hundreds of years.

(Photo courtesy Linda Rose)

They are currently on the endangered species list. Unlike the opportunistic transient killer whales, the Southern residents feed largely on salmon. They are stressed by a lack of food due to over fishing, development and deforestation. They hunt by eco-location and for this reason scientists are now suggesting that boat traffic and noise could be adding to their stress. Compounding their problems, they are so high in PCB's that they are treated as toxic waste when they die. With weakened immune systems, many of the breeding age are dying as well as the newborns.  Despite their endangered status and all the scientific evidence suggesting boat traffic could be stressing them; the Southern Residents remain the most observed whales in the world.

(Photo courtesy Linda Rose)

Our sightings have declined in the last few years because there is little food for them in our area and they are hunting at greater distances. If all you want to do is see a killer whale we suggest that you take a whale watching tour. If you are comfortable with going out for a tall ship adventure and possibly seeing the killer whales in addition to the many other fun activities aboard then join us!