Loads of action at Santa Cruz Island and en route in the Channel.
- curtis35188
- May 11, 2021
- 1 min read
2021 05-11 SB Channel
Today’s adventure ran west towards UCSB then turned south to an area near the West End of Santa Cruz Island. Skies had a high, gray stratus layer all day and seas were very flat. Closely watched species included 4 humpback whales, 1 Minke whale and 300 long-beaked common dolphins.
4 miles out from UCSB a nice herd of common dolphins located the Condor Express and we watched as the little cetaceans surfed our bow, side and stern waves. Everyone had great looks.
Our first whale was a cooperative Minke found just north of The Lanes. A mile or so beyond brought our first humpback then an additional 2. All three were large adult whales with long down times. Captain Dave stayed with them for a few surface intervals before moving further towards the island.
South of The Lanes and near the West End we spotted a humpback breaching and steered a course for its vicinity. On site, the beast was very active with another monster breach, plenty of rolling around, swimming upside down, and slapping its pectoral fins sideways and on its back. What a treat!
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
