Budd Inlet Six Commemorative Cruise
This Labor Day weekend, come aboard the Commanche naval vessel for an unforgettable cruise commemorating the 50th anniversary of the capture and release of the Budd Inlet Six orcas.
In March 1976, six orcas were herded into Budd Inlet near Olympia, when SeaWorld used helicopters and explosives to corral and capture them in nets for sale to marine aquariums. The capture sparked massive public outcry and ultimately led to new legislation, making it the last live orca capture ever in Washington State waters.
On this 2.5-hour cruise, guests will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience along scenic and historic Olympia waterways, including stories from eyewitnesses and experts who will share how a small group of community members started a movement that changed the course of Orca preservation worldwide.
The event is available exclusively to Olympia AHA Museum & Visitor Center Orca Members.
featured speakers
Dontae Payne, Mayor of Olympia
Joel Hanson, Port of Olympia
Bill Oliver, Skipper of the Mistral
John Dodge, Journalist
Cindy Hansen, The Orca Network
itinerary:
Swantown Marina
The history and significance of the Marina and the Port of Olympia
Squaxin Park
Formerly known as Priest Point Park; discussion of the recent re-naming and traditional use by Steh-chass people
East Shore
The former Navy mothball fleet
Budd Inlet Capture Site
The story of the six orcas captured by SeaWorld at this site, and the ensuing legal battle to protect orcas in the Puget Sound
Boston Harbor
The legacy of conservation and the importance of orcas to our local waters