Image: A pair of humpback whales with the beautiful Santa Barbara coast in back
2024 04-25 SB ChannelÂ
Today’s single trip left the docks at high noon and experienced flat calm seas, a high gray overcast sky, and no wind… At least near the coast. Total sighings for the trip included: 3 humpback whales and 30 California sea lions.
Captain Dave and the crew ran west, up the coast, and found a relatively large and active birdnado just south of platform Holly. The sea lions were the only mammalian life present here.
The Condor Express continued south from Holly. About 5 miles later, we spotted three humpback whales. It was a pair of whales feeding subsurface together, and a third whale about a half a mile behind. All three were adults. Early in the encounter, the lone whale breached behind the boat. We spent most of our time watching the pair.
The humpback duo had 10 minute dive times. At one point they came very close to the boat. They slowed down and showed a bit interest and did some active vocalization. Always great to hear!
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry
Condor Express, and