2016 06-10 SB Channel
Captain Dave and his crew started today’s excursion on a southwesterly heading. Before reaching the mid-Channel region, the Condor Express found itself surrounded by at least 200 long-beaked common dolphins. While dolphin watching we soon had 1 fin whale, 1 blue whale and 2 humpback whales on the surface in the mix.
Pressing further south and into The Lanes an additional 2 blue whales and 3 humpbacks whales were located and watched. The ocean surface was covered by purple sailor jellies (Velella velella) and one large ocean sunfish (Mola mola) was found feasting on Velella. Before long we located yet another blue whale. About this time a group of about 10 Dall’s porpoise ran past and ignored the Condor Express on their way to the blue whales. Like yesterday we watched the little porpoise “ride the bow” of the blue whales and interact with the huge beasts for a while.
After leaving The Lanes and on a course set for home, 2 miles outside the Harbor, 2 additional humpback whales and a megapod of at least 1,000 common dolphins.
Sea conditions were fantastic all day long with calm seas and low stratus but no fog and good lateral visibility.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express