Deep-Diving Humpback Whales and Long-Beaked Common Dolphins

Following a smooth, sunny ride out of port, we encountered three humpbacks feeding together about seven miles west of Moss Landing. While these whales' dive times varied between three and twelve minutes, passengers were treated to multiple breaths between each sounding.

After observing several humpback dives, we continued northwest, and before long recognized the splashing of dolphins in the distance. Within minutes the large pod of common dolphins began porpoising towards the boat, surprising passengers. Surrounding the boat on all sides, bow-riding, leaping into the air, and surfing the wake, these dolphins spread cheer throughout the deck.

Trips like today's underscore the adage, "There's no bad day on the Bay." The humpbacks were diving deeper than normal, but they still put on a great show at the surface with multiple dives showing beautiful flukes. And had the humpbacks not even made an appearance, the gregarious dolphins would have justified the trip by themselves.