Gray whales near Santa Rosa Island and plenty of dolphins too.

2022 02-03 SB Channel

Gorgeous sea conditions and sunny skies prevailed in our neck of the Channel today. The trip took us across the entire Channel, then across the mouth of Santa Cruz Channel, and west as far as Carrington Point, Santa Rosa Island. Sightings included: 7 Pacific gray whales, 15 Risso’s dolphins and 2000 long-beaked common dolphins.

Captain Dave and the crew set a course for the western end of Santa Cruz Island. About half-way across the Channel a mega pod of common dolphins located the Condor Express and rode our bow, side and stern waves.

Off the west end, a group of 10 Risso’s dolphins were friendly and had good surface times. Soon thereafter an additional 5 Risso’s were watched as we headed to Carrington.

At Santa Rosa Island a group of 5 gray whales, then a group of 2 more gave us great looks with plenty of nice fluking-up.

On the way home to Santa Barbara Landing the crew picked-up 2 deflated, floating helium Mylar balloons from the ocean surface to help prevent problems with animals in the natural environment.

You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com