Extreme Minke encounter plus grays and dolphins.

2020 02-23 SB Coast

Our coastal waters had a little bit of chop in the early morning hours, but as the day progressed things got calmer and calmer. Sightings for the day included 3 Pacific gray whales, 1  Minke whale, and 100 long-beaked common dolphins. Two trips left the docks today: 9 AMand 12 noon.

The single morning whale was located near the coast and was fairly shy. On the afternoon trip, we had two adult gray whales that were easy to watch especially because the water was crystal clear and blue. After those two whales, Captain Colton reported a very unusual prolonged friendly encounter with a Minke whale. Again, the clear water greatly enhanced the experience as the whale swam up and down both sides of the Condor Express, rolled around, and generally accompanied the boat for a half hour!

The dolphins were encountered right off The Yacht Club as we left the harbor on the morning trip. They were busy working on a giant bait ball near the beach. You never know when Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry

Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com