The elementary students at Orcas Christian School visited Matia Island on Thursday, Oct. 4 for a day of outdoor learning and fun. Outer Island Excursion made this trip a reality by ferrying the group.

It was a chilly morning, but as students arrived, excitement was in the air. The friendly staff checked us in and led us to the two vessels we would travel in to Matia.

We were fortunate to enjoy bright blue skies and calm seas. As we neared the Matia Island dock, some students started alerting their peers to view the Harbor Seals resting on the nearby rocks. During our time on Matia Island, the group sang songs, hiked on the trails, participated in a scavenger hunt, played a survivor game, practiced building shelters, and played nature trivia games.

Being on Matia Island was a wonderful experience, but the best part of the trip was yet to come! When Outer Island Excursions returned to take us home, they encouraged us to pack up quickly since there had been Orca sighting in the area. They went above and beyond the agreed itinerary so that the students could see these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. Although unexpected, it was the highlight of the trip.