2018 07-18 SB Channel East
Captain Dave and his crew took the Condor Express back to the eastern Santa Barbara Channel where, once again, we found abundant life in The Lanes adjacent to West Anacapa Island. Closely watched species today included 2 blue whales, 1 fin whale, 1 Minke whale and 500 long-beaked common dolphin. Skies were mostly covered by a marine layer and pierced by occasional holes of bright, warm sun.
We were hardly past the Carpinteria rig line when a small pod of dolphins located the boat. A single, shy, Minke whale was also on patrol here. There were several spots of bait on the surface which we assume was attracting the mammals. A bit later Dave pointed out a northern fulmar, then a second one. An hour later a very small pod of dolphins came by.
Upon arriving at the hot spot, a feeding aggregation of a couple hundred dolphins were watched until the whales began to surface. There were three tall spouts in the area: two giant blue whales and a small fin whale. Between whales a large ocean sunfish or Mola mola was spotted and Dave pulled us up close for good looks.
Later two additional groups of dolphins, each with 100 or more animals, were watched.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com