2021 07-02 SB Channel
A subtropical air mass wafted across the northern Channel. A high stratus layer with its glassy ocean surface shifted to a nice breeze in the southern half. Sightings were great: 7 humpback whales, 4500 long-beaked common dolphins and 200 California sea lions.
Seven miles south of Hope Ranch the dolphins arrived in small groups of 100 or less with plenty of seabirds watching from above. As we approached The Lanes their pod sized were much larger, a few over 1000 individuals. Again, lots of seabirds were following along. A bit further south our first 2 whales were a mother and her calf. They made one, quick and friendly pass right down the side of the Condor Express before moving on to their hunting.
Soon 5 additional whales were watched. They started off as individual whales spread over about a mile of ocean, but came together to feed as a group later. One of the 5 threw its massive tail.
On the way home we encountered more (and more) dolphins.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com