[CINC] Condor Express - August 2, 1011

[Rose Messina]

Sightings:  	500 Common Dolphins
			5 Humpbacks
			2 Blues
			Lots of spouts in the distance

We headed toward the area near San Miguel where the whales had been  
sited recently, and quickly encountered the predicted heavy seas.   
Captain Mat did a great job of handling the boat to minimize the  
effects as much as possible and kept us informed regarding the  
distance to the whales.  We had many sick passengers, but when we  
finally reached the whales all aboard were very excited.

We were immediately approached by a humpback that apparently  
recognized the boat.  The whale rewarded us with a 30-45 minute show  
including close approaches, blows next to the boat, shows of its pec  
fins.  The whale also passed under the boat several times giving both  
sides of the boat equal time.  There were a total of 5 humpbacks in  
the area contributing to the show.  Two blues provided the grand  
finale before heading for home.

We had 110 passengers from Switzerland, France, The Netherlands,  
England, Belgium, Arizona, New York, California, Oregon.  All were  
thrilled with the show.

Thanks to Captains Mat, Dave and Matt in the galley for a great trip.

Rose Messina, Natalie Swan, Barbara LaCorte PID