[CINC] Islander on 8/7

[Dick Bellman]

Saturday, aboard the Islander was an absolutely AMAZING DAY!  Captain
Anthony took 100+ passengers on a 3 hour ride to a position north of
Richardson Rock on the far western end of San Miguel.  It was a long ride,
under overcast skies, but was definitely worth it.  The bottom line was:

          Common Dolphins -  350 - 400
          Dall's Porpoise - 3
          Blue Whales - 32
          Humpbacks - 14

These are the official numbers which I entered into the log.  There were far
more whales, mostly blues, in the area than I was able to officially
document.  Spouts were popping up in all directions, literally 360 degrees,
around the boat.  Andrea said is best when she described us as engaging in
"schizophrenic whale watching,"  because we were looking everywhere and
seeing multiple cetaceans wherever we looked.  The blues and humps were
often in close proximity, not only to each other, but to the boat.  There
are undoubtedly people who have pictures which will show both species in the
same frame.  Yes, it was spectacular.  The entire time we were in the area
we were in contact with a multitude of whales.  Since we had to pick up
campers at Prisoners, we ultimately had to move on.  The viewing was
enhanced by very calm seas, so calm that the Islander was able to go as far
into Painted Cave as physically possible.  Again, the passengers where
thrilled.   What a day!!

Dick Bellman
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