2019 11-24 SB Channel
All 4 islands were clearly visible as the Condor Express crossed the Channel with glassy calm seas and bright sun all day. Sightings included 2000 short-beaked common dolphins, 1500 long-beaked common dolphins, and 1 humpback whale.
Captain Colton and the crew found several mega pods of dolphins today scattered across the Channel. Some were the high-flying short-beaked species, and others were the boat-friendly, long-beaks. We spent some quality time with each species and had some meaningful interspecies interactions.
On the way towards the middle of Santa Cruz Island, surrounded by dolphins, our ever-vigilant deckhand, and galley man, Austin, somehow noticed a single spout at least 4 miles from the boat. It turned out to be a juvenile humpback whale. Kudos go out to Austin and his sharp eyes. This whale behaved like it was feeding sub-surface and its surface intervals were short. It was still, nonetheless, a wonderful sight to see.
Colton started a nice tour of the coves and cliffs along the north face of the island around Fry’s anchorage and moved west. He spoke about the island, its history, ownership, and other interesting facts. On the calm ride home, thousands more dolphins were watched.
You never know what Mother Nature has in store.
Bob Perry Condor Express, and CondorExpressPhotos.com
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