WHALES, TAILS & TALES

Returning from the island recently, we literally ran into a pod of whales making their way north. About three miles out from Dana Point, one behemoth unexpectedly surfaced directly in front of us about a boat-length away. I made a quick hard turn to starboard to avoid him, only to see another whale straight ahead. Another quick hard turn, this time to the port side, got us through the slalom course. Threading the needle, we were very lucky to weave our way unscathed.

As we continued on, we saw several other groups of spouting whales plus a breaching whale which is uncommon in our waters. The migration is in high gear and it's a treat to see.

AVALON

We spent a fun-filled week in Avalon and were able to spend time with the Sullivans too. Doctor Brian was working the local medical clinic so the family was able to mix business with pleasure. Day trips took us to Hen Rock for sand dab fishing (always have a backup meal) and the east end to check the sea lion rookery. Of course we enjoyed the dolphins on the way back each day. Super week with a super crew.

PS The Admiral and I had an incredible whale encounter on our way home today.

Heather, Rubyjane, Clementine, Quinn, Rains and Dr. B.

The crew reporting for duty.

How's the weather down there Captain Quinn?

THE "STREAK" IS BROKEN

Like all good things in life, sooner or later, they end. And today our streak of whale sightings ended. We were four for four in our last 4 outings. But today was as good as it gets for an afternoon sail...plenty of wind, dolphins and we pulled away from other sailboats on our way in with the Admiral at the helm. We weren't racing but, whenever two boats are going the same direction, you don't want to be passed. In a nutshell, awesome day on the water.

SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

Our get-a-way in a winter wonderland.

The Great Western Divide from the top of Moro Rock.

FOUR FOR FOUR!

We're batting a thousand in our last four day-trips sighting whales, most recently following several late transiting grays. Yesterday was a warm and sunny day as Sailor Jerry, Van Bro, and the Buckeye joined us for a very nice afternoon on the water. We got a little work done at the top of the mast prior to departure replacing the masthead light with a LED. Burritos and salad rounded out the day. Fun times!

The Admiral and Buckeye keeping a keen watch.

Thar she blows!

Heading south to the warm Baja water.

Wind vane at the masthead in need of replacement. The custom bird's feather was attached three years ago.

View from the top. That's the Admiral making her way down the dock.

"LIKE THE PLAINS OF AFRICA"

Captain Dave, marine naturalist and owner of the vessels Dolphin Safari and Manatea recently said, "Few people realize that just off the urban coast of Orange County, it is like the plains of Africa. We actually have the greatest density of oceanic dolphins in the world off Southern California, with wild herds up to 10,000 strong - more than 460,000 common dolphins alone! We also have the largest concentration of blue whales in the world that feed off our coast in the summer. Record numbers of gray whales migrate by in the winter. Not to mention the fin and Minke whales that are spotted all year long."

ROTARY CLUB CHAMPAGNE CRUISE WINNERS

The winners, L to R, Gary, Lucky Lil, Jane and Jeff. Lots of dolphins and a close-up whale sighting made the afternoon!