2017 11-11 SB Channel
Once again the Condor Express found ideal weather and sea conditions in the Santa Barbara Channel. Skies were clear and sunny. The ocean surface was calm, and the water was clear. Wildlife sightings were also excellent including 8 humpback whales, 2 Minke whales and 300 long-beaked common dolphins.
West of Platform Habitat and about 9.5 miles out from Santa Barbara Harbor, 2 very large Minke whales were encountered. Uncharacteristically, the pair dove together for about 5 minutes per dive and had a uniform breathing cycle as well as constant northeasterly course heading.
Deckhand Tasha located a region a few miles ahead where multiple tall spouts marked the presence of numerous humpback whales. Six whales were closely watched with more in the area. Of the six, a trio of whales became behaviorally active with lots of pectoral fin slapping, rolling and several breaches. This action went on for over an hour and was a fantastic, non-stop sight to behold.
East of the action 2 more whales were encountered and one of them was our old pal Scarlet. Scarlet swam alongside the Condor Express for a while and made sure her fan club on the boat got plenty of great looks. On the way home a pod of 300 or so dolphins played with our bow, side and stern waves.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express