2019 10-29 SB Channel
The slight morning breeze died down immediately and the day was sunny and wonderful. Sightings included 1500 long-beaked common dolphins and 3 humpback whales.
Most of the action was located near the NOAA buoy and slightly south of it. There were many groups of dolphins each numbering in the hundreds. They were common throughout the zone and found with the whales. Conditions were great for watching the dolphins ride our wake.
A single shy whale was watched through several breathing cycles in the mid-Channel area. It went about its business without a lot of fanfare, and we were there to observe. A few miles south, on our way towards Santa Cruz Island, an additional two whales were watched. This pair was more reliable in terms of fluking-up and hence a bit more fun to watch.
After the whale encounters Captain Dave and the crew took the Condor Express on a tour along the northern sea cliffs of beautiful Santa Cruz Island (“Holy Cross Island”). Dave narrated the tour and gave his interpretation of the history, indigenous people, geology, ecology and modern ownership of this, our largest, offshore island. This segment of the trip also featured a venture inside the outermost chamber of the world’s longest sea cave, the famous Painted Cave. It was a wonderful day for whales, dolphins and the cave.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
PS
Tomorrow (Wed. 2019 10-30) is forecast to bring strong winds and we have canceled the excursion previously scheduled.