07-16-2013: It doesn’t get much better than this. Humpbacks, Blue Whale, Blue Sharks, Leatherback Turtles, Risso’s Dolphins and More. Perfect Conditions All Day

Monterey Bay-breaching-Humpback-whale
A humpback calf we were with for more than an hour breached almost twenty times. The chance of a lifetime to get humpback whale breaching photos. And the lighting was perfect. Photo: Michael Sack, 07-16-2013.

Today was one of those epic days. We had calm, glassy conditions all day long and the Bay is alive and in full swing with an abundance of marine wildlife. Right now, a lot of it is happening just outside of Moss Landing.

Monterey Bay Breach Humpback whale
One of about 20 breaches this calf did. Photo: Michael Sack, 07-16-2013.

There has been a mother and calf humpback pair hanging around the Moss Landing area for the last few days. They were just outside our harbor again today. We were on them right out the gate on both our 10:00 am and our 3:00 pm trips. So that was cool.

Monterey Bay Breaching Humpback Whale
This was one one lively youngster. Photo: Michael Sack, 07-16-2013.

We’ve also had some great looks at mola molas and Risso’s dolphins.

Monterey Bay Risso's Dolphin
Breaching Risso’s Dolphin. Photo: Chase Dekker, 07-16-2013.

But the Leatherback turtles were the real treat. Two leatherback turtles foraging just outside of Moss Landing.

Monterey Bay Leatherback turtle
Another great shot of one of the leatherback turtles we were with today. Photo: Eric Mailander, 07-16-2013.

Just remarkable. And the calm conditions really topped it off. Over the top really. It just doesn’t get any better than this.

A leatherback turtle cruises along side our boat as it forages for sea nettle jellies. Photo: Eric Mailander, 07-16-2013.
A leatherback turtle cruises along side our boat as it forages for sea nettle jellies. Photo: Eric Mailander, 07-16-2013.
Monterey Bay Leatherback
Leatherback turtle cruises for jellies. Photo: Eric Mailander, 07-16-2013.
Monterey Bay Leatherback Turtle
A leatherback turtle cruises around the Sanctuary. Photo: Eric Mailander, 07-16-2013.

And then on the way in, we came across a blue whale! Just an amazing day.

 

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