[CINC] CX Sunday, August 5

[Mary Bucholtz]

~ 3000 Dc in 4-5 groups
2 Mn
approximately 130 passengers
1 PID (Barbara LaCorte)
1 naturalist (Mary Bucholtz)

We headed out with a packed boat into a glorious sunny day. After an auspicious encounter with some common dolphins just outside the harbor, we were under way, hoping to make it to Santa Rosa Island and some whales before the wind caught up with us. But despite wonderful views of several large groups of common dolphins throughout the day, the whales eluded us, and we trekked ever farther west, approaching San Miguel Island before turning back. Barbara was exemplary as always in keeping spirits up and sharing excellent information with the very interested passengers. Just as we had all given up hope, Captain Dave's eagle eyes spotted two humpbacks right in front of Santa Cruz Island, with one more farther east. We spent some quality time with the pair, getting great close-ups and several playful approaches, and arriving back at the harbor an hour late (which we all agreed was time well spent). Although some passengers succumbed to seasickness, the vast majority were delighted with the experience. Passengers from Japan, France, Germany, Norway, England, and all around the US and California joined us for another perfect day on the Channel.  

Mary

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Mary Bucholtz
mbucholtz at me.com
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