Whales for Wednesday !

Colleagues,

Here's the Condor Express sightings log for today:

300 Common Dolphins
2 Humpback Whales

Again we saw enormous amounts of krill on the surface and predatory pelagic birds actively feeding.  This could be the start of something!!

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Wildlife Report for Tues Aug 30

Colleagues,

Here's the Condor Express sightings log for today:

300 Risso's Dolphins
3000 Common Dolphins
1 big ol' Basking Shark

Again we saw enormous amounts of krill on the surface and predatory pelagic birds actively feeding.  The big whales must be coming soon with all this food!

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Pelagic Trip - Sat Sept 17

Message from the senior leader for the trip:
===============================

Birders:

I am happy to announce a special pelagic trip on the Condor Express for September 17th, done in conjunction with Condor Cruises and the Island Naturalists Corps.

This 8 hour trip will depart at 8:00AM (meet at 7:30). The cost for this trip is a very reasonable $90.

Mid-September is right about the peak of seabird species diversity off Southern CA, and we can expect a wide variety of fall migrants and resident seabirds.

Our plan will be to work south of the Santa Barbara Channel to find the warm water edges along the Santa Cruz basin. Storm-petrels often raft in these areas and this is the best place to look for Least Storm-Petrels in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. This area can also host large rafts of Pink-footed Shearwaters, and is the perfect area to look for rarer shearwaters such as Flesh-footed. Rarities in this area at this time of year have included Streaked Shearwater, Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel, and Blue-footed and Brown Boobies as well as Red-billed Tropicbird. None of these can be expected, but it is great time of year to check this area.

Ashy, Black, and perhaps Leach's Storm-Petrels can be found, plus we have a
good chance at all the Jaegers and Skua, plus an array of alcids and other pelagic species.

We will be planning to spend time in both Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, so this should be a good trip to do some county listing.

The Condor Express is a great boat with a full galley, ample seating and deck space and is a stable platform for viewing and photographing birds. The crew is world class.

This should be a great trip for both experienced pelagic birders, as well as those who have never been on a pelagic. The boat will be well equipped with a cadre of our usual leaders, who will be pointing out the birds and helping participants make the most of their day.

Call the Sea Landing at 888-77Whale to reserve your spot today. I hope to see you on the 17th.

Todd McGrath
SKUA@MSN.COM
Calabasas CA

Humpback and Dolphins - A great Sunday

Santa Barbarians,

Far to windy and heavy seas to the west, so Captain Dave headed southeast to work the inshore shelf break, and pretty quickly came upon:

1 Humpback Whales (feeding on bait fish)
600 Common Dolphins

Again we saw enormous herds of dolphins leaping in unison over the on-coming big waves and wind and was an amazing sight to see.  I'll post up the photos tomorrow!

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Dolphins, dolphins and then the Humpbacks

Wildlife lovers,

A grumpy-growler kind of day on the Channel.   Rain squalls, heavy wind, big waves, short intervals...but what a spectacular show

2 Humpback Whales (mother and calf)
1000 Common Dolphins

Watching these enormous herds of dolphins leaping in unison over the on-coming big waves and wind was an amazing sight to see.  I'll post up the photos tomorrow!


PLEASE NOTE THIS SATURDAY'S WHALE WATCH WILL RUN FROM 8am TO 1230pm...SPECIAL SCHEDULE.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Blue Whales - Wednesday

Wildlife lovers,

Sunny, clear, crisp and a moderate bump on the ride out to the grounds, and here is what the sharp eyes of Captain Dave Beezer found:

3 Blue Whales including 1 mother and calf
700 Common Dolphins

PLEASE NOTE THIS SATURDAY'S WHALE WATCH WILL RUN FROM 8am TO 1230pm...SPECIAL SCHEDULE.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Special 8-hour Trip - Sat Sept 17

SPECIAL TRIP ALERT !

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
8am to 4 pm
An extended day trip to search for and study wildlife offshore, with a special focus on pelagic birds and marine mammals.
Join marine mammal naturalists such as Bernardo and Diane Alps, as well as a team of pelagic bird experts under the direction of Todd McGrath, as we take a leisurely cruise offshore to view and study wildlife.

This trip and price structure was originally designed for the Channel Islands Naturalists Corps members, but has now been opened to all at the naturalist price $90.
(A regularly scheduled 4.5 hour trip is $99, so this is a special bargain).

Make your reservations now by calling the SEA Landing at 1-888-77WHALE or 1-805-963-3564.


Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

Great Whale Conservancy

Friends,

You and your associates are invited to a fundraiser for the Great Whale Conservancy to be held from 5pm to 8pm on September 16.

Please refer to the attached flier and distribute to all interested parties.   I hope to see you there.


Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

Report for Tues Aug 23

Wildlife lovers,

Overcast and a moderate bump on the ride out to the grounds, then less bump, wind and fog in the prime target area led to challenging conditions today.  But somehow Capt Mat managed to spot a lone Humpback, how does he do it?

Today's scorecard:

1 Humpback Whale
6 inshore Bottlenose Dolphins

PLEASE NOTE THIS SATURDAY'S WHALE WATCH WILL RUN FROM 8am TO 1230pm...SPECIAL SCHEDULE.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Leapin' sunfish !!

Wildlife lovers,

Captain Mat ran west but ran into a moderate breeze.  Luckily this is supposed to subside for tomorrow.  Here's the scoop:

1 Blue Whales
700 Common Dolphins
6 leaping Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola)

PLEASE NOTE THIS SATURDAY'S WHALE WATCH WILL RUN FROM 8am TO 1230pm...SPECIAL SCHEDULE.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Humpbacks and Blues still on the feeding grounds !

Friends,

Captain Dave ran west again and continues to have the keen eyes and magic touch

1 Blue Whales (some other Blues were surface lunge feeding in the distance)
2 Humpback Whales (a mother and calf....the calf breached !)
200 Common Dolphins
15 Dall's porpoise

Great weather and sea conditions with sunshine today.   Many many more spouts in the area and great sea conditions today.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Big whales, big feeding today !!

Condorians,

Captain Dave ran west again and continues to have the keen eyes and magic touch

5 Blue Whales (surface lunge feeding)
3 Humpback Whales (surface lunging next to the boat)
600 Common Dolphins

Fantastic looks at these beasts feeding on krill right on the surface.   Mouths open wide and gobbling krill.  Many many more spouts in the area and great sea conditions today.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Mother and baby Blue Whales and more...

Condorians,

Captain Dave ran west again and found

2 Blue Whales (cow-calf pair)
500 Common Dolphins
Various assorted California Sea Lions in the mix
1 HUGE sunfish (Mola mola)

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Big OFFSHORE Bottlenose Dolphin herds

Friends and Associates,

Us citizens of the western Santa Barbara Channel are accustomed to cooler waters, more moderate breezes, and the wildlife that this great combination produces.  We love it.  However today our beloved western realm had a tad MORE than just moderate breezes...there was a full Gale with rough seas thrown in the mix.   The wise old Captain Mat decided to cast our fate to the calmer east Channel today.  We found great mild summer weather and calm seas there, and a special species treat today as well:

300 Offshore Bottlenose Dolphins
Various assorted California Sea Lions in the mix

The big bottlenose were in three distinct groups 150, 50 and 100, stretching from Anacapa Passage to a point a few miles south of the Arch.  FYI:  We'll be back with dense populations on the western shelf break as soon as the Gale warnings are lowered.  In the meantime, these highly animated and large dolphins are amazing to see.  I'll post up the photos from this expedition tomorrow morning so you can see for yourself.  Wow!

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Zillions of Humpbacks - Link to short & sweet video

Hi, Everyone-

Here is Amy's Heintz's video from Saturday's ACS Santa Barbara trip
on the Condor Express: check out this HUGE group of humpbacks in
calm seas - WOW!

http://www.youtube.com/user/JTHS81#p/a/u/1/QtM2f9UhNgA


Thanks to Alisa Schulman-Janiger for sending this link to us!

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!


Bob Perry
Condor Express

It's LUNGE time.

Friends,

A bit of a breeze again today out on the feeding grounds, and here is what we got close to and followed today:

2  Humpback Whales
200 Common Dolphins

There was krill up on the surface today and the Humpbacks were actively feeding right before our eyes.  These huge carnivores are gluttons for sure.
 

Our expeditions are accompanied by trained and articulate naturalists from the Channel Islands Naturalists Corps.  They circulate among the whale watchers and help provide interesting views and news.  You will recognize these volunteers by their blue shirts and jackets (and name tags).

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.
Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

whale report - tues 8/16

Colleagues,

Today there were overcast skies and a moderate breeze wafted across the whale feeding grounds.  However the big blue monsters were there to greet us.
Here is what we expressly watched today:

5 Blue Whales
800 Common Dolphins
100 Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola)

Several sunfish breached....crazy to see.  Among the Blue Whales were a mother and her calf.  One Blue stayed next to the boat and breathed several dozen times before sounding.


Three highly skilled naturalists from the Channel Islands Naturalist Corps were on board to help interpret the environment to interested parties.

Photos will be posted tomorrow to:   www.CondorExpressPhotos.com

For schedules and trip information go to:   www.CondorExpress.com


Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day.

Bob Perry
Condor Express

What more can I say except "Oh my God !!"

Friends of the Condor Express and local cetaceans,

As your faithful reporter, I am running out of superlatives to describe the massive quantities and thrilling close encounters that we have been experiencing for the past several weeks.  So, depleted as I am of verbiage, here is what we got close to and followed today:

11 Blue Whales
15  Humpback Whales
100 Common Dolphins

Simply F A N T A S T I C !!!

Our expeditions are accompanied by trained and articulate naturalists from the Channel Islands Naturalists Corps.  They circulate among the whale watchers and help provide interesting views and news.  You will recognize these volunteers by their blue shirts and jackets (and name tags).

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.
Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Sizzlin' Hot Whales !!

Friends of the Condor Express,

As your faithful reporter, I am running out of superlatives to describe the massive quantities and thrilling close encounters that we have been experiencing for the past several weeks.  So, depleted as I am of verbiage, here is what we got close to and followed today:

4  Blue Whales
12  Humpback Whales
2500 Common Dolphins

Several Humpbacks mugged the boat, usually in groups of 4 or 5 at a time...gang attack!  The Humpies also rolled around a lot and a few slapped their pectoral fins.  Mixed in the Blue Whales we found a mother and her calf.  I honestly suggest you drop everything you are doing and get out on here while the conditions last.  Ask yourself:  what is more important that going eyeball to eyeball with these sea monsters?

Our expeditions are accompanied by trained and articulate naturalists from the Channel Islands Naturalists Corps.  They circulate among the whale watchers and help provide interesting views and news.  You will recognize these volunteers by their blue shirts and jackets (and name tags).

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Even Hotter Summer Whales !!

Local Whale Lovers,

Today we ran an 8-hour expedition with the American Cetacean Society and we were treated to mild summer weather and mostly glassy seas..  We were again on the "mother lode" and here is what we watched closely today:

(Remember, these numbers are from a longer than normal, all day trip)

8  Blue Whales
25  Humpback Whales
900 Short Beaked Common Dolphins
2100 Long Beaked Common Dolphins
8 Bottlenose Dolphins
20 Risso's Dolphins
25 Ocean Sunfish juveniles (Mola mola)

Several Humpbacks mugged the boat, and almost all of them were in groups ranging from 2 to 12.  It was massive on the grounds today.

Pelagic birds recorded:
Fulmars
Cassin's Auklet
Sabines Gulls
Pomarine Jaeger
Black Storm Petrels
Ashy Storm Petrels
Semipalmated plover
Sooty Shearwaters
Pink Footed Shearwaters
Common Murres
Red Phalaropes
Red-necked Phalaropes

We have had quite a few days with dense populations of whales on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Hot Summer Whales !!

Local Whale Lovers,

Again we were treated to mild summer weather and mostly glassy seas today.  We were again on the "mother lode" and here is what we watched closely today:

6  Blue Whales
18  Humpback Whales
200 Common Dolphins

The Blues exhibited there "racing" behavior, and at one point the boat had SEVEN Humpbacks on the right side and SEVEN more on the left !!   Many more spouts in the area.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

The Summer Whales Continue...

Friends,

Again we were treated to mild summer weather and mostly glassy seas today, and here is what we watched closely today:

4  Blue Whales
7  Humpback Whales
500 Common Dolphins

The Blues exhibited there "racing" behavior, and three of the Humpbacks did come mug the boat and thrill us all.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Another great whale day on the grounds !!

Friends,

Again we were treated to mild summer weather and mostly glassy seas today, and here is what we watched closely today:

2 Blue Whales
5 Humpback Whales
400 Common Dolphins

The Blues exhibited there "racing" behavior, and three of the Humpbacks did come mug the boat and thrill us all.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

ps..hey Babs are you reading this stuff?

Condor Express frozen in place - unable to move due to friendly Humpbacks

Folks who love the knobby-headed beasts,

Great mild summer weather and mostly glassy seas today, and here is what we watched closely today:

0 Blue Whales
8 Humpback Whales
1300 Common Dolphins
6 Dall's Porpoise
1 big Egg Yolk Jelly

You may notice the number of Blue Whales for today's adventure was zero.  Although we are sure there were big Blues on the grounds, we could not possibly get to them today.  Why?  Because the friendly Humpbacks had us pinned-down, unable to break away and move the boat.  Seriously...that's the kind of "problem" we had today.   On the one hand, unable to go see the Blues.  On the other hand, 4 or more adult Humpbacks all around the boat, both sides, front and rear, even emitting big bubble blasts directly beneath the boat.  There was a lot of  trumpet vocalization, rolling and tumbling around and it lasted almost a full hour.  What an amazing experience for all.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Summer Whale Fest !!

Friends and Associates,

Great mild summer weather and calm seas today, and here is what we watched closely today:

3 Blue Whales
6 Humpback Whales
1500 Common Dolphins
8 Dall's Porpoise
1 Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola)

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from today and from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

SPECTACULAR !!

Colleagues,

Great sunny weather and calm seas today, and here is what we watched closely today:

5 Blue Whales
10 Humpback Whales

There were many many more spouts all around in the immediate area.  The Humpback show involved several friendly individuals that came up to the boat and took a look at the whale watchers.  Amazing !

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

 Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com
 
...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com
 
In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 
 
Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!
 
Bob Perry
Condor Express

Humpback put on a show

Friends,

Here is what we watched closely today:

2 Blue Whales
8 Humpback Whales
300 Common Dolphins
10 Dall's Porpoise

The Humpbacks rolled around in some drifting kelp paddies, spyhopped and came over to the boat to say hi.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

Tons of blues & Humpbacks !!

Friends,

Here is what we watched closely today:

12 Blue Whales
10 Humpback Whales
12 Common Dolphins
6 Risso's Dolphins
18 dinner plate size Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola)

The seas were quite a bit less bumpy than yesterday AND things are supposed to be even nicer over the weekend.  The numbers above reflect only those beasts that we settled in with and watched closely.  Seriously, there were spouts all around and off to the west as far as you could see.  Actual whale populations today were well above 50+ whales.  Several Blue Whales fluked up.  Several Humpbacks made close and friendly approaches to the delight of all.  The Risso's Dolphins were seen mid-Channel, and were all mothers with calves.  And the little Mola mola were clustered together in two close groups.  Another especially fantastic day for wildlife.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

Big Whales Abound !! CX Thurs Aug 4

Colleagues,

Here is what we watched closely today:

8 Blue Whales
9 Humpback Whales
700 Common Dolphins

The seas did kick up a bit again today making whale-spotting a challenge for sure.  But nonetheless Captain Mat Curto and his sharp eyes located an abundance of cetaceans despite the high seas and winds.  There is nothing like seeing the world's largest living creature in its element, busting through the on-coming breakers with the wind whipping the spray off the nose of the beast and the spout flying all over.  Wow.   One of the many Humpbacks broke away from its group and mugged us to the thrill and delight of the passengers and cameras.  Passengers from Holland, Germany, France, Long Beach and Montana were equally amazed by all the whales concentrated in one area.  A few surface lunge feeding Blue Whales were seen, and many many more spouts were all around in the breeze.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

PS.. CINC naturalists John, Laura and Stan asked me to post this to the RAIN list on their behalf.  So please pardon the contact information which is for the benefit of our usual daily mail recipients.

Report of Afternoon Trip - Wed Aug 3

Blue People,

Here is what we watched closely today:

2 Blue Whales
600 Common Dolphins

This was a 1pm departure due to a morning research and educational charter.  As fate would have it, the seas did kick up a bit in the late afternoon making whale-spotting a challenge for sure.  But nonetheless Captain Dave Beezer's sharp eyes located a pair of Blue Whales despite the high seas and winds.  There is nothing like seeing the world's largest living creature in its element, busting through the on-coming breakers with the wind whipping the spray off the nose of the beast and the spout flying all over.  Wow.  

The rest of the week we are back on a normal 10am departure schedule and the seas should be far more favorable for people with weak stomachs and/or land lubbers.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

Tuesday we got mugged !!

Blue and Humpback Lovers,

Here is what we watched closely today:

2 Blue Whales
4 Humpback Whale
500 Common Dolphins

A fresh breeze cleared the sinuses and the skies today and what a day to be alive and out there.  The instant we arrived on the shelf break, a Humpback made a bee-line for the boat.  It did not venture more than a few feet away from the boat for 45 minutes.  It was the friendliest whale we have had the pleasure of observing for a few weeks.  Wow.  See for yourself when the photos go online tomorrow.  The Blues were nice and there were lots and lots of other spouts in the wind.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

DON'T FORGET WEDNESDAY'S TRIP IS IN THE AFTERNOON, 1pm -  5:30pm.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from today and previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express

More Information about the August 12 Party Cruise

Full Moon Hawaiian Cruise

Friday, August 12
6:30 - 9:30

$25/$30 day of Cruise

Food, Fun, Live Music Sunset Cruise
Featuring the band "Mango"
Complimentary appetizers & full no host bar
Dress hawaiian style for a complimentary mai tai!
Catering by Marmalade Cafe

Pick up tickets at SEA Landing
or call 805.882.0088

Email:  info@condorcruises.com

Condor Express/SEA Landing
Santa Barbara Harbor
301 W. Cabrillo Blvd

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW !

Full Moon Hawaiian Party Cruise !!

Please see the attached flyer regarding a party cruise for you, your clients and your guests.
The moon is scheduled to rise at 705pm on August 12.

Have fun,

Bob Perry
Condor Express

b<-_->d

Monday, August 1st

Nature Lovers,

Here is what we watched closely today:

8 Blue Whales
3 Humpback Whale
1 Fin Whale
75 Common Dolphins
10 Inshore Bottlenose Dolphins

Very good looks at a Fin Whale today. Chin-slapping and friendly Humpbacks.  Again we saw that same Blue Whale mother and her calf, as we have all this week...the mother regularly flukes up.

We have had quite a few days with dense populations on the shelf break.  Who knows what the future may bring.  Suggestion:  sign up now and get in on all the action while it lasts.

DON'T FORGET WEDNESDAY'S TRIP IS IN THE AFTERNOON, 1pm -  5:30pm.

Call 888-77WHALE or 805-882-0088 to book your trip.

Visit our NEW website:
http://www.CondorCruises.com

...or to view images from previous trips: 
http://www.condorexpressphotos.com

In addition to the expert crew on the Condor Express with over 35 years of experience, Channel Islands Naturalist Corps volunteer naturalists, representatives from the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and National Park, are usually on board and available to answer your questions during the trip. 

Best fishes and have a WHALE of a day!

Bob Perry
Condor Express