Sunday, September 25
Pelicans
awaiting passengers and Whalers Doris and Vicky on board the Bright and Morning
Star this morning were an indication of things to come. A few miles
outside the entrance to
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Passengers
joining Whalers Judy and Diane on today's trip were in for a treat. Not
only was the ocean especially calm, but the blue whales put on quite a show,
feeding as well as exhibiting what looked to be courtship behavior. We
saw eight magnificent blue whales - one of which surfaced after a deep dive
immediately in front of the boat....what a surprise to all! After
spending a good part of the day observing the blue whales, we spotted two fin
whales--not the most accommodating ever seen, but none the less fun to see.
As we approached
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Sunday, September 18
A
gray morning greeted good-spirited passengers and Whalers Judy and Terry on
board the Ocean Odyssey. Everyone enjoyed seeing the many birds and sea
lions at the bait receivers as we departed
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Blue
whales did not disappoint passengers and Whalers Judy and Katie on today's
cruise. We saw six blue whales, one of which consistently showed its
massive tail flukes when taking a deep dive. One of the whales had been
seen over the past couple weeks--we could tell by grooves carved in its
back--probably caused by a boat propeller. Additionally, a couple bottle
nose dolphins were seen in
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Another
beautiful day on the water greeted passengers and Whalers Ida and Terry.
Not only a beautiful day on the water, but lots of common dolphins,
followed by feeding blue whales. Then, in the distance, breaching whales
were spotted! We cruised over to the area and had a wonderful show put on
by three humpback whales, two of them breaching in unison a couple times.
After watching the fabulous acrobatics for what must have been an hour,
we returned to the area of blue whales--and what a show they put on. We
watched, conservatively, 10 blue whales surface feeding--got to see their
ventral grooves, their baleen, their pectoral
flippers--what an awesome sight--and there were several more spouts in the
distance. Additionally, a fin whale joined in the feeding frenzy.
Another baleen whale joined in--we couldn't determine whether or not it
was a minke or Bryde's whale. Dolphins and sea
lions also cavorted amongst the feeding whales, and sea birds surrounded us.
What a fantastic day of whale-watching off the
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
22 hour overnight Wednesday, September 7, 2011 and
Nature Cruise Thursday, September 8, 2011
A
Whale-Watchers Dream!
Passengers
on the Bright and Morning Star were pleased to be leaving the heat of
The
day started off with common dolphins and several sea birds feeding right
outside
Thursday's
Blue Whale cruise offered up more common dolphins, lots of feeding birds, and
additional species of whales! In addition to the magnificent blue whales,
we observed Bryde's, Minke, and fin whales feeding. On the way to see the
Enclosed
are three photos--two of whale flukes, and one of a feeding whale.
It was
an amazing and awe-inspiring two days on the ocean off
Hope
to see you on the water!
Whaler
Diane
We haven't seen a fin whale in a while -
I really enjoyed the overnight and staying on the next day - we saw so much fun
stuff!
All the passengers really enjoyed being out on the water on those hot days
--Judy
Nature Cruise Sunday, September 4, 2011
Every
blue whale cruise is different, and today's was no exception. The
passengers and Whalers Heather and Judy saw six mako
sharks! I think with the sightings of sharks on local beaches recently
and what we saw today, it must be "Shark Week!" We also saw a
couple pods of common dolphins, as well as a blue whale and then a humpback
whale breaching in the distance. Everyone enjoyed seeing
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise Thursday, September 1, 2011
As
the Ocean Odyssey departed
Although
a big southern swell was hitting the shores, making the surfers crazy happy,
the ocean itself was fairly gentle today under very blue skies.
Passengers and whalers Gaynell and Sheila were
treated to a terrific show of common dolphins. There was a pod of at
least 500 dolphins feeding, sending bait to the surface, and delighting in the
sea birds as well. Everyone on board felt they were in the midst of a
National Geographic show! The blue whales showed up as well. The
first blue whale was not particularly accommodating to viewing, but the next
two adult blue whales were readily observed. Soon a mom and calf pair
showed up fairly close to the vessel, allowing everyone a look at the beautiful
blue color as they were just under the surface of the water - which is how they
got their name. Sea lions and birds delighted all at the
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
The last 22-hour Blue Whale/Nature
Cruise of the season is scheduled for Wednesday, September 7, 2011.
I had
the opportunity to experience this last month and it was fantastic! Not
only did we see 20 blue whales during the first day of the trip, and then enjoy
the
Captain
Ben Griffith on the Bright & Morning Star offers this cruise to include
your meals and a bunk. You can relax and enjoy this cruise - narration is
provided by crew.
I
urge you to sign up for this--it would be so much fun to have you on board
Hope
you'll join me on this wonderful, unique adventure,
Diane
Nature Cruise Sunday, August 21, 2011
A
pod of energetic common dolphins, including many moms and calves, started off a
beautiful day on the water. As we headed out to the area many blue whales
had been spotted recently, we came upon a large sea turtle--probably a
leatherback! Not long after observing the turtle we came upon two blue
whales--the captain wanted to move on, as he had reports of several whales less
than a mile away....and he was right on. We saw at least 15 blue whales,
many showing their tail flukes when diving....and in the distance another
whaler and I saw a partial breach of a blue whale....magnificent!
Passengers as well as whalers Katie, Ida and Judy enjoyed a fantastic day
on the beautiful Pacific. Following is a web site showing great footage
of a blue whale underwater, and relaying additional information about this
magnificent species: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/episode/kingdom-of-the-blue-whale-3302#tab-Videos/06436_00
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise Thursday, August 18, 2011
Good
karma brought out the blue whales in droves!
Today's blue whale cruise was the BEST I've ever been on, and I've been
on many over the past few years. Early in the cruise we enjoyed a
frolicking group of common dolphins. What happened next was most unusual.
We spotted a SHARK - a thrasher shark, attached to a small buoy.
The crew on the Ocean Odyssey did a very good thing and released the
shark from the buoy and their good efforts did not go unrewarded.
Northeast of Dead Man's
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
(ps--sharing this with all our
summer whalers--a very special day on the water)
Nature Cruise Sunday, August 7, 2011
Beautiful
blue skies greeted passengers and whalers Debbie and Uli
on board the Bright and Morning Star this morning. Not long after exiting
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise Sunday, July 31, 2011
Superlatives
can't describe today's cruise. Twenty-two blue whales---some surface
feeding, three mom and calf pairs, a minke whale
feeding close to a blue; and a dolphin accompanying another--it was beyond a
WOW! A couple whales came so close to the boat, the blow covered my
camera lens, and you could smell their breath...not mouthwash, but krill!
It seemed everywhere we looked there were blue whales! Whalers Fran
and Diane and everyone on board were thrilled. We could see the krill in
the water---and squid feeding on it. We also enjoyed a few pods of common
dolphins. It is definitely time to get out and see the blue whales if you
haven't already done so---and if you've done so, you know what an incredible
experience it is to watch them. Even a couple passengers who had issues
with motion sickness told me it was so worth seeing these magnificent animals
(and that is a recommendation!). Other passengers, from
Though
my good camera is in for repair, I captured a few photos I'm sharing with this
blog,
Whaler
Diane
__________________________________________________________________________
Nature Cruise Sunday, July 31, 2011
As
we exited
Submitted
by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 28, 2011
A single bottle nose dolphin
was spotted as we neared the tip of Pt. Loma on today's cruise....perhaps one
of the Navy's Atlantic bottle nose dolphins in training! Then we were out
on the ocean...and seals were spotted.....not marine mammals; several Navy SEALs were parachuting out of a plane in the distance.
Splashing was soon seen, and we encountered a pod of common dolphins.
Progressing to Los Coronados, we then saw several offshore bottle nose
dolphins. At Dead Man's
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 24, 2011
Bottle nose dolphins greeted
the Ocean Odyssey as we headed out of
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 21, 2011
Wow! I just returned from
the incredible overnight Nature/Blue Whale Cruise to Los Coronados. What
a fantastic time was had by all. We observed approximately 20 blue whales
on Wednesday, and pods of both Risso's, bottle nose and common dolphins.
When the fishing lights came on at night, hundreds of squid showed up, as
well as flying fish and other finned creatures, salps
and jellyfish. It was fascinating watching the dolphins, sea lions and
birds enjoying this feast. I can't recommend this trip enough--please
tell your friends and neighbors--it is a very reasonable way to spend a night
at sea, eat some delicious food and snacks and enjoy the best of nature.
You might remember, I sent the following e-mail in June, and there is a
discount Captain Ben has generously offered for whalers:
Hi Whalers,
Captain Ben Griffith of the Bright & Morning Star has given us a generous
offer. Museum Whalers may go for $75 on the overnight Nature Cruise/Blue
Whale Cruise (a $130 value). These cruises
are offered twice a month, leaving on a Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m.,
and returning Thursday morning at 8:00 a.m. (first cruise is June
15). The price includes dinner, a bunk, and a continental
breakfast. The Museum is not partnering with H & M on the overnight cruises,
so crew on board will be taking care of naturalist responsibilities.
For a schedule of these cruises, check out the H & M web site under Blue
Whale Cruises--purchase tickets online. Then call H & M Landing
at 619-222-1144 to make your reservation (try and talk with Katrina).
Identify yourself as a Museum Whaler, and when you check in at the office
prior to your cruise to pay for your ticket, show your photo Museum Whaler
ID to get the discount.
These cruises should be lots of fun....a whaler's, birders, and naturalist's dream.
Also please remember to spread the word about the Blue Whale
cruises.....there's so many whales now and
conditions are terrific. Hard to believe its mid-summer and today's blue
whale cruise had to be cancelled because not enough passengers--that's so sad.
Nature Cruise July 17, 2011
Passengers on today's cruise
were in for a very special day! We
started the day by encountering some bottle nose dolphins and common dolphins
on our journey to "whale canyon," and then the sightings began! A total of at least 12 blue whales, including
two mom and calf pairs. The whales
amazed passengers, not only by their size, but showing some surface feeding
behavior, spy hops, and some their tail flukes before deep dives. A couple of the whales surfaced very close to
the vessel giving all the passengers and whalers Karen and Ruth a thrill. Another pod of common dolphins delighted
passengers, playing in the midst of all the feeding whales. As we headed to Los Coronados, we got to
observe several offshore bottle nose dolphins.
As always, everyone enjoyed seeing the sea lions, harbor seals, and
black oyster catchers on Dead Man's
What a fantastic day spent on
the beautiful
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 14, 2011
What a day! As we departed
harbor at this time of year....it fluked a couple times and
we saw a few blows--fortunately a Coast Guard vessel was protecting it from
boat traffic in the bay. We headed out
to "Whale Canyon," and as we approached a large blow was seen in the
distance--by the time all was said and done, the passengers and whalers Patty
and Sheila were able enjoy sightings of at least six magnificent blue whales,
including a mom and calf pair.
Passengers from
Sea World yesterday, and thought
this was a much better way to see the animals!
We then progressed to Dead
Man's
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 10, 2011
It was a bit of a gray day, but
it didn't dampen the spirits of passengers and whalers on board the Ocean
Odyssey. Whaler Vicky, who had never
seen a blue whale before, was first to spot the spout of a magnificent blue
whale.....the whale thrilled the passengers as well as whalers Gaynell and Vicky.
As we proceeded to Los Coronados we saw four more blue whales, including
a mom and calf pair. One blue whale had
a scar on its back, probably indicating a ship strike. Another blue whale's tail flukes had the ends
turned up on its deep dive....not unlike a jet landing....what a sight (photo
attached)! Some of the passengers got to
see a mola mola, and
everyone enjoyed seeing the sea lions and their pups on Dead Man's
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise July 3, 2011
The blue whales did not
disappoint passengers and whalers Sheri and Rosie on
Sunday's cruise! Everyone cheered when a couple of the whales
raised their
impressive 25' wide tail flukes when taking deep
dives....something that not all
blue whales do.
Additionally we got excellent looks at a mom and calf pair, and
some feeding behavior.
A majority vote of passengers on the vessel dictated
that we skip Los Coronados on this cruise and focus on
finding more whales and
dolphins. A total of
four blue whales were observed today. It
took some time
to find a large pod of common dolphins, but they did not
fail to delight
everyone on board.
Different species of jellyfish were frequently seen, and a
mola mola was spotted, probably enjoying the jellyfish, its
favorite food.
Ocean conditions were quite glassy, and
everyone enjoyed another day on the
Nature Cruise June 30, 2011
A beautiful summer day
greeted passengers and whalers Alan and Judy.
Not only
blue skies, but blue whales feeding .... great views of two blue whales, as well
as sporadic views of their pectoral fins and baleen as
they took their "big
gulp" of krill.
Lots of krill was seenl, which bodes well for
the blue whale
season off
common dolphins joined in on the action. After several views of the blue whale,
we ventured off to Los Coronados, and on the way viewed
a good-sized pod of
common dolphin and six to eight Risso's dolphins. Then a mola mola (ocean
sunfish) was spotted.
Several black oyster catchers were spotted on Dead Man's
Island, as
well as many sea lion pups. Harbor seals were also seen lounging on
the island. After
a look at the brown booby's and three of their chicks, we
headed back to
Wow--another fantastic day on the water!
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise June 26, 2011
Feel like shouting it from
the rooftops--the Blue Whales are Here! What a show they put on today for passengers
and whalers on board the Ocean Odyssey today. Everyone got good looks at lunge
feeding--throat grooves, baleen and pectoral fins on six blue whales, including
a mom and calf pair. It was definitely a
thrilling day for whale watching - one of the best ever. Additionally, we got to see a couple hundred
common dolphins, many riding the surge of the vessel and a good-sized mola mola (ocean sunfish). Of course the baby sea lions were another
treat, and everyone observed the brown booby's and a couple oyster catchers
were spotted. Several jellyfish were
seen on today's cruise--probably wetting the mola mola's appetite.
Whalers Ida and Fran and all the passengers - and needless to say, Whalers
Diane and Judy, were so happy to have experienced this very special day on the
water.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise June 23, 2011
Newlyweds from
Whaler Judy L.
Nature Cruise June 19, 2011
The cruise on the Bright and
Morning Star was off to a great start as we observed some bottle nose dolphins
heading in to
Since the mom was protecting her calf, there
were no acrobatics; but we did get a good view of the two whales. Passengers and whalers Vicky and Heather
enjoyed seeing the sea lions and harbor seals on Dead Man's Island, and all on
board enjoyed seeing the colony of brown booby's--including a couple chicks on
Bird Rock. On the return trip some of the passengers were treated to some major
acrobatics by a dolphin--could this be an escapee from Sea World? The skies cleared early and the sea was
calm--everyone on board enjoyed the day in the ocean wilderness off the coast
of
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise
June 9, 2011
Blue skies never showed up on
today's cruise, but blue whales sure did!
Passengers joining whalers Judy and Diane on the Ocean Odyssey were
treated to
viewing eight magnificent blue whales, including two mom and calf pairs!
Everyone was thrilled and amazed at their size. More blows were
seen in the
distance. Some passengers got a brief look at a minke
whale, the world's
smallest baleen whale....quite a contrast to the blue whale, the largest animal
in the world! As we headed to Los Coronados, a couple mola mola's (ocean
sunfish) were seen. It is pupping season for
the sea lions, and several newborn
pups were seen on Dead Man's
Rock, it was time to return to
were joined by a megapod of common dolphins....some of the world's best
entertainers. Everyone agreed it was a fantastic and amazing trip.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise
May 28 & 29, 2011
Passengers accompanying
Whalers Karen and Judy on Saturday's cruise had a
somewhat rocky ride to Los Coronados....but were rewarded with the sightings of
two very large blue whales, another blue, or possibly humpback whale, and a
spout of an undetermined whale in the distance. These large mammals never
fail
to get passengers excited! A couple of dolphins were spotted, but the
larger
pod was hightailing it in a different direction than
our cruise to Los Coronados
allowed us to go. A new brown booby chick was spotted, its mom hiding it
much
of the time; however, the two other chicks are growing up rapidly and starting
to have their down replaced with feathers...such fun to watch them grow!
Surprisingly, several elephant seals are still on the beach, though it is
expected they will soon head up north for some summer fishing. Several
pairs of
black oyster catchers were seen, as well as one American oyster catcher.
Though
bumpy, it was a rewarding day on the water.
Sunday's cruise was quite an adventure...with high seas and lots of time spent
"rockin' and rollin'."
Although it was much rougher than normal, passengers
joining Whalers Rosie and Heather did get to see two blue whales! A few
common
dolphins accompanied the vessel briefly. The elephant seals, harbor seals
and
many sea lions never fail to please passengers, as well as the many birds on
the
easier to spot the whales and dolphins.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise May
13 & 14, 2011
It must have been that it was
"Friday the 13th" (or could it be a large
submarine patrolling the area?), but no cetaceans showed up on Friday's cruise.
However everyone on board enjoyed seeing the sea lions, harbor seals, and
several remaining elephant seals on the Los Coronados. Whalers Judy and
Karen,
as well as the passengers, had a great time watching a brown booby chick being
fed by its mom, and another mom and chick were spotted in the same vicinity.
Ahhhh, the cetaceans were once again spotted on
Saturday's cruise. A large
group of Risso's dolphins were seen together with another large pod of offshore
bottlenose dolphins....and. they gave everyone a good show--with some of the
dolphins breaching. The birds and marine mammals on the islands were
enjoyed as
always by everyone on board. On the return trip, a spout was seen, that
of a
very small whale. Whalers Heather and Diane consulted their books, and
could
not come to any conclusion as the whale was not very showy....but they thought
it could have been a dwarf sperm whale or pygmy sperm whale, as its head seemed
rounded...anyway, everyone could agree it was a small, "mystery
whale." Another
great day on the water on board the Nature Cruise.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise May
7 & 8, 2011
Bottlenose dolphins greeted
Bright & Morning Star passengers Saturday morning as
they left
farther out, a small group of young common dolphins were observed--and
heard..... then we got a special treat-- a really good
viewing of three blue
whales and a couple blue whales in the distance. Two of the blue whales showed
their tail flukes when diving. A good-sized mola
mola was spotted as we went on
to the
booby chick being fed by its mom. Great day on the
water. Whalers Judy L. and
Ruth and all the passengers on board enjoyed the trip immensely.
A blue whale was observed on Sunday's cruise in the same area as Saturday's
blue
whales were seen....though not as cooperative as those seen on Saturday....it
is
always fantastic and special to see such a magnificent
animal. As we headed
toward Dead Man's Island....there it was....a breach...a humpback; we slowed
down to a crawl and this energetic whale put on a fantastic show for all of
us....quite a Mothers' Day treat. So many breaches and fin slaps, it even
came
within 20 or 30 feet of the boat hurling its body out of water.....everyone was
wowed! Three young mola mola's
(ocean sunfish) were also observed. The marine
mammals on the islands, as always, were appreciated by all, and once again the
brown booby chick was seen being fed by its mom. The trip back was quite
blustery; but everyone accompanying the crew and Museum Whalers Rosie and Diane
agreed it was a fantastic tour.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise April
30, 2011
Windy conditions causing
white-capped seas hampered viewing of cetaceans on
today's cruise. Enthusiastic passengers were happy to see some bottlenose
dolphins as we approached and left Los Coronados. One very large mola mola was
seen by some of the passengers on our trip to the
seeing the masses of sea lions, as well as several elephant and harbor seals
residing on the
Booby chick, in addition to nesting brown pelicans and cormorants. The
are still green and many wildflowers are in bloom--always a treat to see.
Passengers appreciated the information provided by Judy P., and Ida,
Museum
Whalers on today's trip.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise April
23, 2011
Breezy,
white-capping conditions in the morning thwarted attempts to see
dolphins and whales as the Nature Cruise ventured to Los Coronados. The
seas
calmed by the time we reached the
harbor seals and many nesting birds delighted all the passengers. Shortly
after
departing the
it was----a magnificent blue whale! What a treat to see this huge baleen
whale
so early in the season. Passengers and whalers Judy and Diane got several
good
looks at this huge creature....the blue whale thought to be the largest mammal
ever on earth. Saturday's cruise turned into another fantastic day on the
water.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise April
21, 2011
Weather forecasters predicted
a rather drizzly day.....they were wrong! Was a
terrific day out on the water--great visibility, calm seas, and very
comfortable
temperature. Several of the Navy dolphin training boats were spotted, both on
dolphins being trained. As we headed out into the Pacific, sporadic
dolphins
and sea lions were seen.....and then a blow....a fin whale--we got several good
views of the whale and could even see the chevron on the whale's back.
While
viewing the whale, a pod of dolphins was seen approaching--we got to see a
nursery group of common dolphins...many very small. In a short while a
couple
minke whales, the smallest of the rorquals were
spotted...one even breaching in
the distance; and then we got a special bow rider--a very large offshore bottle
nose dolphin. The sea lions, harbor seals and elephant seals were seen on
and
around Los Coronados...as well as the brown boobies, and several other
sea-going
birds. A great day on the ocean had to end, but as we headed into
enjoyed seeing them, all were hoping they would exit the busy
soon. for their own safety! Another special day
on the water enjoyed by
passengers, crew, and whalers Judy and Diane.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise Friday, April 15, 2011
Passengers joining whalers Jack and Alan really had a spectacular
dolphin-watching day! Twenty bottlenose dolphins enjoyed bow riding the
vessel,
followed by an encounter with a megapod of approximately 2,000 dolphins.
All
enjoyed the many marine mammals and birds residing in and around the
and on the return trip all enjoyed watching the courting ritual of two humpback
whales! Everyone on board had a wonderful time.
Saturday, April 16
A small pod of bottlenose dolphins escorted the Bright and Morning Star in and
out of
were thrilled watching a pod of common dolphins, which included some very young
animals. Everyone on board enjoyed the many marine mammals and birds on
the
jellyfish were spotted in the water. On the return trip, the spouts and
flukes
of a humpback whale were seen; however this whale was quite elusive as was a
minke whale spotted by one of the passengers and
Diane. A mom and calf gray
whale were then observed....the mom usually only blowing bubbles instead of
spouting, to maintain her low profile in the water--a good mom! The day
was
warm and the
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise April 10, 2011
Shortly after leaving the
dock, passengers joining Museum Whalers Judy and Diane
on board the Bright and Morning Star were able to see a couple of the Navy's
Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a training exercise in San Diego Bay.
Heading
to the
Sunday morning brunch. A small
sightings of a couple of larger Mola's.
The blows of whales were soon spotted,
and everyone got to observe three humpback whales. Soon the whales were
chased
by a pod of offshore bottlenose dolphins.....though the whales didn't breach
this morning, the dolphins certainly did! All were delighted with
the elephant
seals, harbor seals and sea lions which populate three of the four Islands, and
of course the myriad of sea birds. One couple from the East
coast exclaimed
they had been on many whale watches, but they did not compare with the relaxing
nature of this cruise as well as the sightings of all the marine mammals.
Another passenger from
and go out on another Nature Cruise. As always, this was a great day on
the
water.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise April 1 and 2, 2011
No foolin'
- it was a very summer-like day on Friday--calm seas, warm
temperatures and lots of whales: six gray whales, three of them
exhibiting
mating behavior; and five fin whales, one of which came very close to the boat
for a little people watching, and one possible blue whale.....a wonderful day!
Saturday's temperature wasn't as kind, but a troop of Girl Scouts from
Las
Vegas, and several other passengers joined whalers Judy and Diane for a look at
four or five gray whales and a fin whale, in addition to the usual suspects at
Los Coronados Islands....the sea lions, harbor seals and elephant seals, and
many sea birds. Passengers enjoyed seeing the difference in size between
the
fin whale and gray whales, and enjoyed their tour around the
the passengers were repeat visitors, and plan on doing the Nature Cruise again,
as it never fails to delight!
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise March 26, Saturday and March 27,
Sunday
Passengers enjoyed the antics
of a large pod of common dolphins as they headed
southwest Saturday morning. Almost immediately after the dolphin
extravaganza,
passengers viewed the courtship behavior of two or three Eastern Pacific gray
whales. As always, passengers enjoyed seeing the hundreds of sea lions,
many
harbor seals and a few remaining elephant seals on The Coronados Islands.
As
the tide was low, many black oyster catchers were spotted feeding on the
mussels
- their favorite food. After a tour of the
spotted on their northern trek. Several of the passengers expressed
interest in
the upcoming blue whale trips and overnight trips to Los Coronados this summer.
Whalers Judy and Diane were happy to be on board for this terrific cruise
to
the
Light rain showers Sunday morning did not dampen the passengers' enthusiasm for
seeing at least 10 to 12 fin whales feeding; three of which ventured very close
to the vessel, allowing all to see just how large these animals truly are.
Several of these whales traveled together in a line on their search for
food.
Whalers Terry and Diane had not seen so many fin whales in one location
this
season and were thrilled with the sighting. A few bottlenose dolphin were seen
as we left
harbor seals, elephant seals and the sea birds delighted passengers as always.
Sunny skies and a very glassy sea made for a pleasant return to
spouts of gray whales seen in the distance.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise March 19, Saturday
Light rain showers cleared
early, making for an enjoyable Nature Cruise for
passengers joining San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers Laurie and Uli on
Saturday. Everyone on board got a good look at a northbound pod of five
Eastern
Pacific Gray Whales, followed by a pod of dolphin. Harbor seals, elephant
seals
and great numbers of sea lions were observed in their natural habitat....as
well
as many of the sea birds found on Los Coronados. Passengers, as always,
also
enjoyed Captain Ben's narration of the colorful history of the islands.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise March 17, Thursday
The "Luck of the
Irish" was with passengers on board today's Nature
Cruise.....good sightings of 12 gray whales, including a young whale that
breached six times! Additionally, spouts of 20 different gray whales were
seen
as we transited to
dolphins swam by the vessel; soon a megapod of hundreds, if not thousands, of
common dolphins were observed jumping, tail slapping, and generally having a
great time, as were the passengers. A few elephant seals remain at Sunset
Cove,
and many harbor seals and their young were spotted. One brown booby chick
was
spotted in a nest with its parents, and a few pelican chicks were seen in the
many nests on Dead Man's
escorted by a few bottlenose dolphins, ending a day with terrific sightings of
marine mammals and birds. One couple exclaimed to me, "This was the
trip of a
lifetime."
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise March 12 and 13, Saturday and Sunday
Passengers on Saturday's
Nature Cruise were thrilled when they came upon
approximately 2,000 common dolphins frolicking in the water, tail slapping and
high jumping, as well as surfing the wake of the vessel. The elephant seals,
harbor seals with their pups and hundreds of sea lions were enthusiastically
observed. Many brown pelicans were seen on their nests, and in one nest
three
chicks were observed feeding. Passengers also got to watch part of the
northern
migration of three Eastern Pacific gray whales. Perhaps due to the recent
earthquake/tsunami, the swells were higher than on most Nature Cruises.
Nonetheless, passengers, along with Museum Whalers Sheri and Diane,
enjoyed the
day.
Sunday the ocean had calmed and passengers enjoyed seeing three of the four
local species of dolphins, including Pacific white-sided, common and offshore
bottlenose. In the morning three northbound gray whales were observed,
one
showing its flukes several times. A very young brown boobie
chick was seen in
its nest high on Bird Rock. Several black oyster catchers were seen as
well as
a hybrid black/American oyster catcher. The highlight of the day was
watching a
pod of five gray whales exhibiting mating behavior, closely followed by some
offshore bottlenose dolphins. A group of "birders" from
to see so many birds they had never before observed. Whalers Gaynell and Diane,
along with all the passengers, thoroughly enjoyed the day on the water.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise March 5 and 6, Saturday and Sunday
Passengers joining whalers
Judy and Diane had a great day on the water on
Saturday--warm day, calm seas. Everyone enjoyed seeing hundreds of
dolphins
feeding, followed by a good sighting of four Eastern Pacific Gray Whales on
their northern migration. Several black oyster catchers were spotted, and
all
enjoyed the graceful flight of the brown boobies. Once again, the Nature
Cruise
was a very enjoyable experience for all on board.
Saturday the weather was a little less welcoming, with a cool breeze and
somewhat choppy seas due to a storm headed our way. In spite of somewhat
uncomfortable conditions, passengers and whalers Terry and Diane were thrilled
by the antics of a megapod of common dolphins--probably more than 1,000.
A
minke whale was spotted, but it seemed a day of
"disappearing whales." After
enjoying the elephant seals, sea lions and harbor seals, and many sea birds, a
couple more spouts were sighted--but once again we were "given the slip"
by the
sneaky whales. Right before entering
were observed...and once again the whale got away before we got a good look -
unusual day, but passengers had a good time and many expressed interest in
returning for one of the summer's blue whale cruises.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise February 27, Sunday
After a stormy couple days,
passengers, along with Whaler Ida, enjoyed a great
Nature Cruise. A couple northbound gray whales were sighted on the way to
the
spread out over quite a large area, apparently feeding. Close to the
small
island, passengers were treated to a sight rarely seen on cruises--mating gray
whales! Of course all were delighted with the islands' bounty of harbor
seals,
elephant seals and many species of birds. All on board had a wonderful
time!
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise February 12, Saturday
Passengers joining San Diego
Natural History Museum Whalers Alan and Heather on
the Bright and Morning Star were treated to watching gray whales on both their
northbound and southbound journeys. The three southbound whales were
being
harassed by a pod of 100 common dolphins. It was interesting that the two
groups of whales appeared to meet up for a short period of time.
Additionally,
three other pods of common dolphins were sighted--bringing the total number of
dolphins seen for the day to the neighborhood of 2,000--always a fantastic
sight! Twenty harbor seals were viewed at Pirate's Cove; and two of the
elephant seal pups at elephant seal beach were still nursing.
Twenty-eight
species of birds were observed; including the black oystercatcher and brown
boobies. As always, passengers and whalers alike enjoyed their day
on the
wonderful Nature Cruise.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise February 10-Thursday and February, 11 -
Friday
Tourists from
conditions for the Nature Cruise on both Thursday and Friday. Thursday's
passengers enjoyed seeing the hundreds of dolphins, the many marine mammals on
Los Coronados and a sighting of a humpback whale. The passengers on
Friday's
cruise also enjoyed the many dolphins, sea lions, elephant seals and their pups,
and the brown boobies, including getting a good look at a fluffy chick.
Additionally, they enjoyed watching two gray whales as they journeyed
south.
Highlighting the afternoon, all on board were treated to a fabulous
performance
by a humpback whale, playing in and with a kelp patty, spy-hopping, and tail
slapping--surfacing once extremely close to the bow of the boat, giving
everyone
on board a real good look at the playful whale. More dolphins
accompanied the
vessel on the return trip to
would not find a trip like this anywhere in the world!" Museum
Whalers Judy and
Diane couldn't agree more....
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise February 5, Saturday
If you had been on the Nature
Cruise to Los Coronados today, you would have
seen a breaching humpback whale (was it the one from the Pacific Life
commercial?); fin whales, gray whales, hundreds, if not thousands of common
dolphins, Risso's dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins, in addition to elephant
seals and their pups, harbor seals, and sea lions, and too many sea birds to
name--another beautiful day on the water!
Whalers Sheri and Heather, along with
all the passengers on board had a fantastic time.
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise February 3, Thursday
A cool, crisp morning, and
calm seas, greeted passengers on the Bright and
Morning Star as they headed out to Los Coronados Islands. Not too far out
of
the harbor, a juvenile gray whale was spotted. This whale kept everyone
guessing as to where it would surface, and wasn't yet comfortable in its skin,
as it apparently wanted to maintain a low profile. Heading further out, all
enjoyed the antics of a pod of common dolphin who were enjoying their Thursday
morning brunch. Lots of harbor seals lounged on the shore of Pirates'
Cove, on
South Coronado Island, and passengers enjoyed them, black oystercatchers, and
then the elephant seals and their young on the other side of South
Island. More
elephant seals and their pups were viewed on "
Brown boobies and a couple chicks were observed on Bird Rock, and then it
was
on to
the sea lions, some of which jumped off the
"Moody's Lunch Wagon." Shortly thereafter was the call, "thar she blows," - and
a total of six fin whales were observed. All passengers were in awe of
these
immense whales and their tall blows! The majority of passengers were from
thrilled. Then it was back to
a wonderful day on the water. Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise January 28, Friday
Passengers joined San Diego
Natural History Museum Whalers Heather and Judy on
Friday, January 28 for another fantastic day on the water. They were
treated to
seeing 15 gray whales, one doing a "half breach," a mom and calf
pair, and lots
of common dolphins as well as Pacific white-sided dolphins, putting on a
terrific show for all. Heather, an excellent "birder," as well
as "whaler"
spotted 20 species of birds on the
the experience. They reported all passengers were thrilled with the
cruise.
On Sunday, January 30, passengers, accompanied by Whaler Diane, were in for a
bit more of a rocky ride, due to an approaching storm
system. Though there were
more whitecaps, passengers still were able to see at least 12 gray whales,
enjoyed seeing the Brown Boobies and chick on "Bird Rock," and saw
lots of sea
stars due to a very low tide. Common dolphins entertained passengers
bow-riding
the boat on the return trip to
and quite a bit of wind, passengers were thrilled with seeing all the wonderful
life, not only on Los Coronados, but on the beautiful Pacific Ocean. This
has
been a phenomenal year for seeing lots of gray whales on their journey to the
lagoons of
Submitted by Whaler Diane
Nature Cruise January 27
An unbelievably beautiful day
greeted passengers on board the Bright and Morning
Star Thursday morning. The great
pod of common and Pacific White-sided dolphins appeared as we neared Los
Coronados, along with spouts of gray whales. We all marveled at the 14
gray
whales spotted throughout the day; one pod of five took a deep dive, almost in
unison--spectacular! The hundreds, or perhaps thousands, of sea lions on
the
islands often approached the vessel as if we were "Moody's Lunch
Wagon." Their
dexterity, swimming and climbing ability is awesome. A new elephant seal
had
been born within the week, and was spotted nursing at Elephant Seal Cove.
Black
Oystercatchers greeted us at three of the islands, and all enjoyed seeing the
many Brown Boobies and their chicks. Whalers Gaynell
and Diane, and all the
passengers, were sad to see their day enjoying
Los Coronados and the beautiful
Pacific come to an end. It is amazing to have such spectacular scenery,
marine
mammals and birds all within a day's cruise from
--Whaler Diane
Nature Cruises -- January 21 and January 22
It doesn't get any better
than this for whale watchers off
out to
to numerous whale sightings - sometimes seeing spouts in every direction.
Passengers on Saturday's cruise were treated to almost as good of a
show....with good sightings of 14 gray whales. Both days hundreds of
common
dolphins were seen, both feeding and surfing the wake of the vessel. The
cruisers were also delighted by the Islands' usual suspects - the hundreds of
sea lions; harbor seals; elephant seals and their pups and numerous seabirds
including Brown Boobies, along with two chicks; and American and Black
Oystercatchers. Calm seas and clear skies made the trips even more
exceptional....how lucky we are to have this opportunity for a fascinating day
trip off the
--Whaler Diane (accompanied by Whaler Laurie on Saturday's trip)
Sent: Wed, January
19, 2011 6:45:19 PM
Subject: A Day On The Water That Was Just Too
Good Not To Share
I wrote this after a cruise last Sunday and I wanted to share it with you.
=============================================================================
January 16, 2010 was THE most perfect day for a nature, whale watching
cruise. MV Bright and Morning Star left the H&M Landing dock at
10:30am with Captain Ben at the wheel and Captain Steve in the galley.
Diane and Gaynell were onboard as volunteers from the
San Diego Natural History Museum and they were eager to tell the 30 guests
making the trip about what they could expect to see on this 6-hour trip through
Whew, we'll say thanks to this whale and continue our journey offshore.
Not much longer and what do we see but Common Dolphins leaping and swimming
very fast right toward us. Soon we were surrounded by several
hundred of them. Many came over to ride the Bright and Morning
Star's bow or to body surf in the wake. They spent a few minutes checking
us out before continuing to search for a nice school of fish for their lunch.
Another great opportunity to get some great photos of
the dolphins, many with small calves.
OK, now we really have to get going, the islands are waiting. As we get
closer to
Continuing on our cruise along the shorelines of Middle and
All too soon it was time to start our journey back to
Gaynell
Nature cruise report- January 16, 2011
Passengers on board the
Bright and Morning Star were treated to a
picture-perfect day in
Early in the cruise we were treated to a gray whale which fluked
following each
breath; and as we moved on, breached two times for a very appreciative
audience.
Heading toward the Los Coronados we encountered hundreds of common
dolphins,
many surfing in the vessel's wake, and several doing spectacular jumps.
We
could hear them communicate! The
there was an extremely low tide we saw many orange sea stars in addition to the
hoards of sea lions, harbor seals and birds. An American Oyster Catcher
made a
rare appearance. There were a few fluffy, white Brown Booby babies
flexing
their wings--what a neat sight! We all enjoyed seeing six elephant seal
pups,
and their parents lounging on the only two beaches on Los Coronados. More
gray
whales were seen - including one pod of four gray whales, which seemed to spout
and fluke in unison. All on board were in awe of the trip; some are
anxious to
come back this summer for the overnight trip to the
Three couples on board had heard about the trip on Saturday at the Whale Watch
Weekend at
opportunity to get up close and personal with some very amazing creatures!
--Whaler Diane (on board with Whaler Gaynell)
Subject: Nature
Cruise, Saturday January 15
A
wonderful trip on the Bright and Morning Star today. We left the dock around 10 with
about 85-90 passengers, the majority being Sierra Club members who had
chartered the boat. On board with the Sierra Club was Alicia Retes ( a whaler who lives in the
Bay area) and Renee Owens, a biologist who specializes in marine life.
The whalers on board today were Debbie Burnette and
Judy Peacock.
It was a nice
sunny day and as we made our way into the ocean, a small group of common
dolphins was spotted. The passengers enjoyed photographing them and
seeing them bow ride. As we headed south towards the
The first island
to visit was
Over on Dead
Man's
As we headed back
to San Diego more "blows" in the distance and we were fortunate to
have 3 more gray whales snorkeling along in what seemed to be a usual
pattern.....they must have felt more comfortable with us. More common
dolphins observed along the way also. The gray whales continued
to snorkel and dive...As we looked south towards the
More blows to the
east and west of us as we headed in and it seemed as there were whales
everywhere we turned...
All in all, a great
time and wonderful trip to the de los
Judy Peacock
Nature Cruise Report - December 31, 2010
Under brisk conditions,
passengers on the Bright and Morning Star were treated
to seeing four gray whales, one of which fluked after every breath! Los
Coronados Islands were a brilliant emerald green, thanks to recent rains; and
also home to four new elephant seal pups, born since Tuesday--a special treat
to
see these newborns. Some of Dead Man's
observed building their nests--the early nesters get top spots on the
island--could it be for the view? A small pod of
Pacific white-sided dolphins
approached the vessel as we headed to the islands; and on the return trip we
were entertained by a couple hundred common dolphins.
Another beautiful day on the water was had by all--hope it won't be long before
lots more people, tourists and locals alike, enjoy this wonderful experience!
Submitted by Diane