2017 06-05 SB Channel
Captain Dave took the helm of the Condor Express and ran across the Santa Barbara Channel to our recent blue whale hot spot near Santa Rosa Island. Sightings for the day included 6 blue whales and 500 long-beaked common dolphins. There were patches of fog here and there and a low (typical June) stratus layer otherwise. These giant blue whales are sure fun to watch.
Things got started fast as a decent-sized herd of dolphins located the boat about 3 miles after we departed Santa Barbara Harbor. These small cetaceans were in a long line feeding among the multitudes of sea birds and sea lions. It was a great oceanic hot spot and many good looks were had by all.
Back on track to Santa Rosa, we crossed the whole Channel and found all the giant blue whales a few miles north of the island sea cliffs. The whales were feeding sub-surface and spent a lot of time breathing between dives, thus providing wonderful observations of their huge spouts and wide tail flukes. Summer is all about our giant blue whales and it has been great so far this year. Suggestion: c’mon out and see the giant blue whales for yourself asap .
Before heading home, Dave took a tour of the west end of Santa Cruz Island including a look inside the mouth of the world-famous Painted Cave.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express