2021 06-03 SB Channel
It was yet another spectacular flat and glassy ocean surface with clear, blue water at Santa Cruz Island. A high stratus layer kept us from getting too hot. Captain Dave and his crew closely watched 5 humpback whales, 100 offshore bottlenose dolphins and 100 long-beaked common dolphins.
Moving southwest across the Santa Barbara Chanel from the harbor to the pristine island waters, only a few small scattered common dolphins were seen. South of The Lanes and along the “(temporary) nursery grounds” area near the West End, the humpback whales did not disappoint.
Outside The Cave we were greeted by a small herd of common dolphins and they rode our bow, stern and side waves. Great looks were had. Not too far away we located 3 whales. There were two large adults at first, and then a juvenile came to the surface. The small whale was the friendliest of the three.
We proceeded to a Cave tour. Captain Dave discussed The Cave and its formation, and talked a bit about beautiful Santa Cruz Island itself. To the west we saw a mother humpback with her calf. We had quick looks as time was short.
On the way home a large pod of offshore bottlenose dolphins located the Condor Express and, as Dave throttled-up ahead of their arrival, they went into high speed leaping and surfing our waves.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
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