Rare Minke whale behaviors and kelping humpbacks.
- Bob Perry
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
2025 06–28 SB Channel
Conditions in The Channel were ideal today. The marine layer burned off near mid Channel and the remainder of the trip was sunny. Seas were calm and there was no wind. As a bonus, the water clarity was spectacular and afforded excellent underwater views of the wildlife. Captain Dave and the crew took us out past The Lanes, south of The Buoy, and then came home. Sightings: 2 Minke Whales, 400 common dolphins and 2 humpback whales.
Just 2 miles south of The Harbor we encountered two single Minke whales that joined up for the first of 2 unusual occurrences today. In addition to mugging the Condor Express on and off for 40 minutes, the Minke’s spy-hopped at least three times close to the boat. (I’m extremely envious since I was not able to be on board today myself personally.) 1-Muggings by Minke’s are very rare. 2-spy hopping next to the boat is something we’ve never seen before.
We eventually parted ways with our dynamic Minke’s and moved southwest. A few miles later, we encountered small groups of common dolphins and had great looks. (Dolphin population totals today were not as large as they have been this week).
We moved to the southern edge of The Lanes where we encountered 2 humpback whales. It was a mother with her calf. The pair had discovered floating, detached, giant kelp patties on the surface and, as they quite frequently do, they proceeded to play with the kelp, roll around in it and let it rub all over their bodies. It was a wonderful “family affair” to witness. (See today's photo for an example).
On the way home we had some quick looks at more common dolphins.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry
