The small group went out to the sun light. The heavy red suits made us look like astronauts going to a rocket, but we were just a few tourists ready to meet orcas in their environment. This adventure had been a “to do” since the first time I visited Vancouver and this bright day seemed to be perfect to have a close encounter with these black and white giants.

After boarding the inflatable boat, the captain and guide turned on the engines and we started moving slowly through the bay where Victoria, British Columbia´s capital is located. Sailing between cruise ships, ferries and hydroplanes, we got closer to the open sea. Suddenly, after leaving behind a signal and, as if a demon had taken the control of the boat, we started moving very very fast.

The boat was jumping over the waves. Some sudden changes of direction made us feel like riding a roller coaster. Between the splash-splash of the water hitting my face and the paff-paff of our bodies bouncing on the seats I could hear how, by radio, the captain was receiving information about the orcas´ whereabouts.

Finally, the boat stopped near the coast. A small steam column was the first signal. A slender dorsal fin surfaced to let us know that the trip was worth. It was the first orca I ever saw in its habitat. The beautiful cetacean passed in front of our boat. Two here, three over there, a lonely one this way… We spent near one hour observing those majestic creatures. Definitely, another sample of the wonderful nature that we have the responsibility to preserve.