2022 07-10 SB Coast
Our powerful four jets and the strategic location of Santa Barbara Landing enabled us to run far to the west to find an active humpback haven off Naples Reef that might otherwise be unavailable to other whale watchers. Skies were sunny all day and seas were calm, making it ideal for locating and watching the wildlife. Closely watched species included: 10+ humpback whales, 5000 Long beaked common dolphin, and 1000 California sea lions.
Captain Devin and the crew of the Condor Express found small and isolated dolphin pods 3 miles outside the harbor, and continue to follow these scattered dolphins west past Platform Holly to a hot spot about 3 miles off Naples. Here the dolphin aggregations were much larger, numerous sea birds were busy feeding in the area, and large groups of marauding sea lions were also active on the spot.
We closely watched 10 individual humpback whales and there were many more spouts that we did not get set up on. Various single whales, pairs, and trios would come together momentarily, only to disperse again. There were numerous tail flukes visible, and there were several close approaches by different whales including a mother and calf. At least one large tail throw was observed.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry
Condor Express, and
CondorExpressPhotos.com
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