2017 09-26 SB Channel
There were three distinct activity zones or hot spots today in the Santa Barbara Channel and located by Captain Eric and the crew of the Condor Express. Total sightings included: 5 blue whales, 7 humpback whales, 2,000 long-beaked common dolphins and at least 200 California sea lions. Seas were flat and calm. Skies were sunny. The water was clear and blue.
About 8 miles out from Santa Barbara Harbor many aggregations of dolphins consisting of hundreds each were spread over a wide area. At least 5 humpbacks were found in the dolphins, and they were spread out too. Numerous sea birds and California sea lions were also on the scene.
A bit later, and around mid-Channel, 5 giant blue whales were located. There was a trio and two single whales. Spouts were tall and the “blue streak” from whales beneath the clear blue water was seen many times.
On the way home, and just north of The Lanes, a huge mega-pod of dolphins was located as they moved together towards the east. Nine humpback whales were sighted here, but Captain Eric is fairly sure 5 of them were the same whales first seen in the middle of the Channel. Any way you want to tally, it was an epic day full of wildlife.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express