2022 06-28 SB Channel
Dense fog with nearly zero visibility persisted throughout the morning as Captain Devin used his “osprey eyes,” with considerable assistance by the crew, to locate and watch some great mammals today. Sightings included: 2 Minke whales, 2 humpback whales, 2 ocean sunfish (Mola mola) and 5000 long-beaked common dolphins.
Similar to yesterday, the near coastal zone was rich with many many pods of common dolphins. Today we watched pod after pod from the harbor all the way (12 mile) west to Platform Holly. Considering the fog, it was nice to have a cetacean that pretty much locates YOU, and not visa-versa. All the dolphins were in “transit mode,” according to Devin, heading southwest. No feeding, no birds and no sea lions were I the mix today. A pair of Minke whales, in all likelihood the same pair we encountered yesterday, was watched just 2 miles off Leadbetter Beach.
About ¼ mile west of Holly we sighted our first humpback. Both humpbacks were sub-adults and this first one was found in a big “sucker hole” of sun with spectacularly clear water. More dolphins were around the area. Both humpbacks were also making quick dives that averaged 2 minutes down and 5 minutes up. Nice for whale enjoyment for sure. Our second sighting came amidst a large mega pod of dolphins as we were not far from the harbor on our way home.
We enjoyed quick looks at 2 ocean sunfish (Mola mola) and also retrieved a deflated, floating Mylar balloon near the beach.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and www.CondorExpressPhotos.com