[CINC] Today on the Islander - February 15, 2013

[Rose Messina]

A.M. Sightings
1 Minke
 3 Humpbacks
1000 Common Dolphins

We came across a lone Minke early in the trip.  When we reached the shelf we encountered 3 Humpbacks who treated us to a great show of breaches and tail lobbing.  A group of dolphins completed the amazing trip.  We had a full load of happy passengers, including the entire Topanga Mountain School and parents.  

P.M. Sightings
3 Humpbacks
2 separate pods of dolphins, 1500 total

The afternoon trip brought calmer seas as the winds subsided.   We encountered a smaller pod of dolphins on the way out, possibly feeding.  We also came across the same Humpbacks we'd seen in the morning.  They were traveling slowly, showing no interest in the boat.   We headed to East Anacapa where the passengers got an up close and personal at the north side of the island and the arch before heading to the south side.  There were the usual array of sea lions and one Elephant Seal and pup on the beach.  On the return trip we were greeted by another pod of dolphins who were definitely interested in the boat, giving passengers the opportunity to snap many pictures.  Happy passengers are from Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Iowa, New Jersey, North Carolina and California.  

Thanks to Captain Lee, Laurie and Joel.  

Rose Messina, Larry Driscoll and Sophie Bush