[CINC] WW, Condor express, 11 June '12

[Kenneth A. Tatro]

Hi folks,

10 	Humpbacks
6 	Blues
6-700 Common Dolphin (n i2 small pods)
1 Harbor Seal near the entrance of Painted Cave

Pigeon Gillemonts
Cormorants
Western Gulls
Brown Pelicans

We left SB Harbor and headed straight for the SCI/SRI gap where it has been Whale Country for some time now. On the way we came across the Commons, in two groups about 10 minute apart, with the usual performances and sightings of babies in each of the small groups. 

Shortly afterwards, Captan Mat spotted what he thought was a Humpback, them maybe it was a Blue, however it did not resurface that we could see. So onward, and into Whale Country which did not disappoint. First real sighting was of a Humpback, then a couple of more, with a Blue surfacing in the area as well. Not long after that, we were "in down town" Whale Country. All around near and far, bows and surfacing whales, Humpbacks and Blues. It became a challenge to ensure we were not counting any whale twice or more, as they were moving around a very good bit, mostly feeding. So our numbers above are very conservative. Just let it be said, we saw plenty of whales on this trip.

Only a coupe of Flukes by the Humpbacks and none by the Blues, all were basically surface feeding, no need for deeper dives.

A very nice cruise along Santa Cruz Island and a good look into Painted Cave, rounded up the trip nicely.

The small crowd of about 27 folks on board were delighted. They came from Belgium, Virginia, Florida, Austin, Texas, San Francisco, and Pasadena.

Captain Mat, crew of Denis and Lesley did their usual great work in finding the Whales and taking care of the folks on the ride.

Anna Hilliard was my side kick, a very knowledgable and fine Naturalist to work with.

Yours,

Ken Tatro

	Gentle winds, mellow seas, and always,
    		… a fresh breath of salty air, ... to ya.