Image: a humpback whale swims under the Condor Express during a mugging.
2023 06-26 SB Channel
Like yesterday, it was sunny and warm in the Channel. However, a moderate breeze kicked-up today…great for watching spouts! Captain Devin and the crew closely watched: 7500 long-beaked common dolphins and 7 humpback whales.
It was a day full of dolphins with thousands all around the zone, all day, non-stop. Our first whales were near the same location we worked yesterday, 10 miles south of Santa Barbara Harbor. There were 5 in this area, and we saw plenty of nice tail flukes. Soon two additional whales joined the fun. One was larger than the other. The small one took to the air right away with a jaw-dropping breach for all to see. This was followed by a solid half-hour of serious mugging. (See today’s photograph).
As if being surrounded by thousands of dolphins all day was not enough, on the trip back to the harbor we found a super mega-pod of thousands that stretched out in a line 1 miles long. Wow!
You never know what Mother Nature has in store. Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
This was a delightful afternoon filled with amazing whale observations, watching as these marine mammals fed, splashed, and dove among blue waves. I was mesmerized by the thousands of dolphins and hundreds seabirds. We’re fortunate to have this experience available here! Thanks Captain Devon, crew, & volunteers!