After a brief discussion with our guides Matt and Sarah from Kaigani Canoe Voyaging, we headed out to sea. We learned about the history of the canoe, we learned to use the canoe respectfully, and how to use the paddle most efficiently. We had some trouble moving with the waves but we were able to make it work. We made the best out of our trip and would like to go back on the water soon!

Once we arrived to Turn Island which would be our campsite for the night, we began to set up our tents. It was the first time camping for some of us so getting everything ready was a group effort. Some of our tents had a little dirt in them from their last use, so we picked it up and vigorously shook the dirt out of it.

Shortly following setting up everything for the night, we took a break to enjoy our dinner and each other’s company. Some of us hopped into the water and it was freezing. After we got out of the water and finished eating, we set off for our silent reflection hike.

The silent hike was very peaceful and a good way to end our extensive journey to the island. We were able to think of all the things we have learned so far during this trip. On the hike itself, all of us were able to see a harbor seal that was just on the coast of the island. We sat down for 30 minutes and we watched the waves crash into the rocks as we wrote in our journals.

Before heading home, we saw a little glimpse of a whale coming up and using its blowhole. We quickly rushed to the other side of the island to see if we could catch any other sightings. Our chaperone Sockeye told us that it was a humpback whale. One of us was able to look through binoculars and see the back of the whale coming out of the water. After seeing this majestic species, we headed back to Friday Harbor Labs.