2017 10-26 SB Channel
Captain Dave and his crew took the Condor Express into the eastern Santa Barbara Channel again today where they encountered ideal conditions and great wildlife sightings. Closely watched marine animal totals included 3 humpback whales, 1 fin whale, and 1500 long-beaked common dolphins.
The action began north of The Lanes and 8½ miles from Chinese Harbor, Santa Cruz Island. Numerous dolphins, sea birds and California sea lions created a hot spot as they worked on tiny bait fish below the surface. Soon 3 humpback whales joined the feeding and demonstrated several nice whale activities for all the whale fans on the boat to see. Rolling around, pectoral fin slapping and some lob-tailing took place.
South of The Lanes and 2½ miles from Potato Harbor several hundred additional dolphins were seen feeding, and a relatively uncommon, large fin whale spent some time on the surface near the Condor Express. It was a special treat. From here, Dave did a tour of the northeastern sea cliffs, caves and harbors of Santa Cruz Island including a short trip inside beautiful Potato Harbor, a small anchorage surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs.
On the way home, many more dolphin interactions were observed.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express