Another stunner in the SE channel, plus we got mugged.
- Bob Perry
- Aug 5
- 2 min read
Image: a close approach by a friendly, adult, humpback whale in the Santa Barbara Channel.
2026 08–05 SB Channel
Our streak of optimum conditions continued today under bright sunny skies, with glassy seas, and sparkling clear, Santa Barbara cobalt water. There was a single hot zone close to where we did all of our work yesterday, about 4 miles SW of platform Habitat. Totals: 2500 common dolphins, 6 Minke whales, 4 humpback whales, and 200 California sea lions.
On our way out, Captain Dave presented the history and the operation of the Santa Barbara Channel offshore oil platforms, and we slowed down for a close look at platform Charlie, the oil rig closest to the Harbor.
As we approach the hotspot mentioned above, once again we saw “pop-up” birdnados loaded with dolphins. Most of the anchovy bait balls were below the surface, but we saw plenty of action because of the wonderful water clarity. We remained on station for over an hour. During this time 6 different Minke whales came into the area and then dove to feed on the sub-surface banquet table.
We also watched 3 separate, individual, sub-adult, humpback whales that behaved similarly. There was no way to predict where or when the whales would come up for air, but captain Dave was able to move from spot to spot to get the best looks.
After a while, a 4th humpback came into the area. It was a large, adult whale and immediately took a shining to the Condor Express. It spent 20 minutes mugging the boat. It worked along both sides, swam into our jet wash, and passed under the boat a few times. Once again, the water clarity made a wonderful visit spectacular. (See today’s photo for an example).
You never know what mother nature has in store.
Bob Perry
