Whale Watching ...
One of the premiere experiences of my life. Photos are an injustice and do not communicate. Words are only an echo. Can you explain to someone the emotion you encounter the first time holding your newborn? Although it is very illegal to approach the whales closer the 200 yards, if they initiate the encounter all is good. It was very good as they were close enough at times to be visible under the water. An often repeated phrase of "this is good for the soul" was not uncommon.
There are Other Things to Watch
This 9 month old (?) entertained and exhausted himself pointing at EVERYTHING. We happily accepted the responsibility of watching him while mom napped. It's a hard job but some one had to do it. As Joe is getting two children already we so wanted to keep this one thinking no one would notice but his mother wakened from her nap and reclaimed him...so sad.
At Friday Harbor
San Juan Island seems as if the only industry is tourism or some associated activity. This is not true as their is at least on winery. They have a nice wine tasting shop on the main street or so I am told as I believe alcohol is for disinfecting or an alternative fuel source. There is also at least one florist/chocolate/ice cream parlor (all the same shop). We were going to get an ice cream cone but the shop keeper was closing for a delivery.
This is the boat we road on for about 10 hours today
This ship can hold about 237 persons is 114 feet long 28.5 feet wide is 88 GRT (tons) and has two 1600 horsepower detroit diesel engines. On the trip we saw seals, eagles, orca and incredible scenery. Should you ever get the chance do it.