2025 03-26 SB Channel
Two trips left the Santa Barbara Landing docks today, 9a and 12n. Skies were gray from a low hanging stratus layer that never produced any fog. Seas were calm. Two trips left the dock: 9a and 12n. Total sightings for the day included 2 gray whales, 2 humpback whales and 1 common dolphin.
In the morning, we spent quality time with a pair of northbound migrating gray whales. They were focused on travel and showed their tails frequently. (See today’s image for an example). Nearby we watched a SOLO common dolphin feeding on a bait ball. I don’t think I’ve ever seen just one common dolphin as they are very gregarious. I think they do get separated sometimes when feeding. The morning action was 3 miles south of Coal Oil Point.
At noon we ran to the eastern Channel. We were in The Lanes near Platform Gilda when we encountered a pair of very active adult humpbacks. Not only did this dynamic duo roll around, play in the jets and move around all sides of the boat, but they mugged us for 30 minutes!
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry