[CINC] IPCO 2/23/2012

[Rose Messina]

Sightings:  500+ common dolphins
                5 humpbacks

We headed south toward Anacapa hoping to catch up with the lone gray whale
that had been sighted in the morning.  Midway in the channel we were joined
with a few dolphins, then a few more, and finally they were everywhere!
 The dolphins were 360 degrees around the boat, as far as the eye could
see.   Needless to say, the passengers were thrilled. We didn't catch up
with the morning whale, but had a great trip up the backside of Anacapa,
through the gap and continued west for a bit in search of the elusive
whales.

We were about to give up and return to port when Andrea spotted spouts
further west.  What a fantastic show!  We at first encountered two whales
who were feeding, spending long periods of time under water.  Next we found
three more.  Two actually seemed to be swimming in sync, surfacing
together, blowing together and diving together.    Jimmy stopped the boat
because they were so close to the boat.  We saw pec slaps, tail lobs and a
breach!

We were 45 minutes late getting back to the dock, but no one was upset.

Thanks to Captain Jimmy, Andrea  and Luke for a great day on the water.

Rose Messina
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