Kayaking with Killer Whales

Killer whales are the biggest species of dolphins. They are commonly known as orcas. They are found in all oceans. There are mainly 3 types types of killer whales. These classifications are not very clear, they overlap each other.

Resident: These killer whales mostly live in a family unit or pods (groups of killer whales). The pods have a complex social structure. A pod mostly consists of a mother and her children. They mainly feed on fish and squids.

Transient: These killer whales do not live in a pod. They travel only in very small pods. They are different from other orcas, because they do not eat fish, but feed on marine mammals.

Offshore: Very little is known about this sub-species. They mostly venture in the open oceans. Their diet consist of fish, sea mammals and sharks.

Killer whales like all other dolphins are very friendly creatures. Most of them do not shy away from humans. Kayaking is the most natural way to observe these magnificent mammals. Kayaks are silent and do not produce pollution as compared to boats. You can even watch the orcas very closely, without disturbing them. Kayaking with killer whales can be a lifetime experience. Imagine kayaking with killer whales, they are so close that you can even hear their sounds. You don't have to be an expert to kayak with the killer whales. You can opt for various tours offered by many travel companies.

Some Places where You Can Kayak with Killer Whales

British Columbia: This is a province in Canada. You can kayak with orcas in Johnstone Strait and Vancouver Islands. These are very famous tourist attractions. Most of the orcas found here are resident orcas. Some transient orcas are also seen in the month of July. Apart from orcas, you will also get to see minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bears, river otters and grizzly bears. Many travel companies offer various kayaking packages. The best time to visit these places is during the months of June and July.

San Juan Islands: These islands are located along the Washington-Canada border. Orca is the state marine mammal of Washington. You will find a dense population of resident killer whales here. There are also many bald eagles, harbor seals and salmons (orcas' favourite food) here. The orcas in this region are one of the most extensively researched. The best time to visit these places is between May end and June starting. You can choose from the various travel packages offered by several companies.

Glacier Bay National Park: In southern Alaska, the Glacier Bay National Park and surrounding Icy Straits are very famous for kayaking with orcas. This area is quite remote, so most of the people opt for a travel guide. The orcas here are mostly transient orcas.

While kayaking with killer whales, you need to keep in mind that these are wild creatures and not the pet animals. It is very rare that an orca will ever harm a human; but if you provoke them, they are bound to harm you. They will respond according to your behavior. You are supposed to watch them from a safe distance (usually 100 yards). Don't get your kayak in their way. Don't try to stop them or feed them. If you are a beginner, it is advisable that you hire a professional guide.