2021 08-18 SB Channel
Captain Colton reported excellent sea conditions for wildlife viewing in the Channel today. Sightings included: 25+ Risso’s dolphins, 6 humpback whales and 4000 long-beaked common dolphins.
Although a small pod of common dolphins found us near the harbor, the “real” common dolphin part of our trip started along with all the sea birds and a whale near the NOAA East Channel Buoy. Several hundred dolphins were busy feeding and we had a great session watching a single juvenile humpback whale. The little whale did some tail-throwing.
Moving west we next encountered 2 humpback whales, a mother with calf. They were in slow travel mode (to the southeast) and were easy to follow and watch. After searching the area for a while we were heading home when the next pair of whales was observed. These were large adult whales found north of The Lanes along with a 2000 strong megapod of common dolphins.
Further along our homeward route some tall fins in the distance turned out to be a nice group of friendly Risso’s dolphins. On adult charged the boat only to dive under us at the last minute. We were running late but saw an additional humpback but did not stop and get fully set up on it.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
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