2018 03-13 SB Coast – A single trip departed Santa Barbara Harbor at noon under thick cloudy skies, and with frequent heavy rain, but wonderful calm seas. Sightings totals included 4 gray whales and 40 long-beaked common dolphins.
As Captain Dave steered the Condor Express west, following the migratory path of the gray whales, the rain was so heavy at times that visibility was restricted as if we were running in dense fog. These heavy downfalls were intermittent, and most of the time the rain was gentle and did not obscure the search for wildlife.
On the westerly path, and not far from the harbor entrance, the dolphins located the Condor Express and kept us company for quite a while. Wonderful looks were had by all. Dave continued west as far as Goleta only to find very heavy rains. He turned around and ran back to the east, the rain tapered off a bit, and a pair of animated whales was found. The two were rolling around, tails up, pectoral fins showing and generally doing what we call socializing. I often wonder what’s going on below the surface and out of our view.
On the way back and close to the harbor entrance, another pair briefly showed themselves.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express