[CINC] CX 6/13

[Dean Benjamin]

Summary:
2000 Common Dolphins (1 pod)
3 Humpbacks
6 Blues
2 Dalls Porpoises

This trip started a bit later than usual, departing at 13:00 and returning at 17:30.  There were 51 passengers aboard, beautiful weather with hardly a cloud in the sky, reasonably calm seas, and a modest bit of breeze.  We headed straight for the west end of Santa Cruz and encountered 2000 common dolphins about half way across.  This was perhaps the largest single pod I have ever seen.  

Then on to the "Krill Diner" where we first encountered a humpback cow and calf.  The adult gave us a 90% breach and ongoing pec slaps; the calf several full breaches with full twists.  Olympic gold medal caliber performances.  Then a bit to the west we stayed close to 3 pairs of blues with several more at a distance.  Then the 2 original humpbacks came over to join in the buffet.  Then 2 Dalls Porpoises came by and seemed to be bow riding the pressure wave of the Blues.  Go figure.

Along the coast of Santa Cruz, explored a couple of coves and conditions were favorable for a nice look inside Painted Cave.  Then homeward with one more humpback just 4.5 miles from Santa Barbara which gave us a massive breach.

Matt was driving and providing color commentary, and as always, did a splendid job.  Dave and Jacques crewed.  Larry Harris did a great job of interpretation and Lisa Angle covered Photo ID.

Dean
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