British Columbia

Playing orcas dazzle onlookers near Galiano Island

Nearly 50 orcas belonging to the J and L pods were captured on video travelling through B.C.'s Active Pass near Galiano Island on Sunday.

Vancouver Aquarium estimates the 50 orcas belong to J and L pods

RAW Orcas off Galiano Island

9 years ago
Duration 1:40
Nearly 50 orcas spotted off Galiano Island, B.C.

Nearly 50 orcas belonging to the J and L pods were captured on video travelling through B.C.'s Active Pass near Galiano Island on Sunday. 

Gary Cullen shot video of the whales, including a baby that playfully jumped out of the water, as they travelled in a group and dazzled onlookers.

"They just seemed to be having a good time," said Cullen.

"It was a pretty social party they were having." 

The Vancouver Aquarium said the orcas enjoy moving through Active Pass, the same route travelled by BC Ferries between Vancouver and Victoria.

The aquarium said the video isn't surprising because the tides and active water make the whales excited.