Image: Two humpback whales mug the Condor Express
2023 12-10 SB Channel
Captain Devin and the crew report ideal conditions for wildlife viewing in the Channel today. Skies were blue with a light, high stratus layer. Seas were glassy smooth and calm. Moreover, the water was that crystal clear Santa Barbara cobalt blue today. Sightings included: 4 humpback whales and 100 long-beaked common dolphins.
Two pods of dolphins were seen beyond the kelp farm as we headed towards The Buoy. The usual fun included bow, side and stern wave riding. We continued southwest to a hot area east of The Buoy.
Our first whale encounter was phenomenal. Two adult whales were logging a bit, then came over to investigate the Condor Express and mugged us for over ½ hour. This sighting included copious vocalizations, mostly trumpet blows and grunts. There was a bit of rolling around and some upside-down tail viewing.
After this wonderous encounter, Devin and the crew moved us over to beautiful Santa Cruz Island for a coastal tour that included a great look at the world-famous Painted Cave.
Not long after we left The Cave to head home, we found the same two whales that mugged us, then an additional pair. All four were back to logging on the surface,
Bob PerryCondor Express, and
Incredible day with such an extended, up-close Humpback encounter with a visit to the magical Painted Cave on Santa Cruz as an added bonus.
Nice sho!