2021 09-26 SB Channel
Today brought overcast skies, calm seas and great sightings. We closely watched 9+ humpback whales, 75 offshore bottlenose dolphins, and 4000 long-beaked common dolphins. The crew also removed one deflated, floating, decomposing helium Mylar balloon from the ocean surface.
The action commenced about 10 miles out from Santa Barbara Harbor where a confluence of more than a thousand common dolphins, hundreds of seabirds, and 7 humpback whales, took place. The focus was on feeding and the anchovy schools were below the surface. This resulted in some wonderful interactions with the whales and great looks at their tails. Additional spouts were visible in the area.
After a great session and wonderful looks at our first hot spot, Captain Dave and the crew began heading for the western end of beautiful Santa Cruz Island. On the way we saw a nice herd of offshore bottlenose dolphins that were in migration mode thus paid only the slightest attention to the Condor Express. Dave’s tour of the northern face of Santa Cruz, including the majestic cliffs, numerous grottos, and caves, culminated in a visit inside the world’s longest sea cave, the Painted Cave.
After leaving The Cave, and getting on track for home, we watched 2 more whales with more spouts in the distance. The crew retrieved the balloon on this leg of the trip as well.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
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