[CINC] Humpbacks still in the channel

[Catherine French]

On the way back from my overnight duties on Santa Rosa Island, with hike guide Don Gillies onboard the Islander as well (having lead the day visitor hike at Cherry Canyon), we were stopping at Prisoners Harbor for a pick up.

Just as we rounded the corner to Prisoners, we encountered--very close in to the island in shallow water--5 humpbacks! Two were juveniles and three were adults, identifiable by the very distinct markings on their fins. One of the juveniles had approached the boat (unseen) so closely it doused me with water as it sounded and came up with the rest of the group on the other side of the boat. Very odd that the group remained very close in to the island in less than 100 feet of water. We watched them quite a while before taking off to Ventura and nearing the harbor we found a playful group of about 100 common dolphin.

Capt.s Dave and Mike aboard with crew Jean, Luke, Laurie and then Joel who had led the Prisoners hike. What a great way to end an incredibly wonderful 4 days on lovely Santa Rosa.



Calm Seas,
 
Catherine French
Writer, mentor, naturalist
805.570.0432
To own is to have; to share with friends, is to enjoy.

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