San Jose Channel and Isla San Francisco
Our first morning on the Sea Bird found us at the north end of Isla San Jose searching for marine life. Following breakfast, our efforts were rewarded when one of the naturalists spotted spouts of fin whales in the distance. These creatures are the second largest of all whales and are unique in having asymmetrical coloration. The left lower jaw is dark gray and the right side is white. Calves are about 20 feet long at birth, so one can hardly say that this was a small calf; nevertheless, it was dwarfed by the massive mother. It was a special treat to repeatedly watch these two rise to the surface, push the water up in front of them, then grab quick breaths before submerging again into the depths.
The sweeping crescent of Halfmoon Bay at Isla San Francisco was a perfect stop for an afternoon of kayaking and hiking. Groups scattered off in different directions to reach the ridge crests for impressive views or to explore the flatter terrain where salt-tolerant plants meet the edge of the desert. On the far side of the island, our Undersea Specialist gathered intertidal creatures to show to passing hikers. The prickly purple arms of brittle stars writhed and wriggled, while the more dainty hermit crabs hid inside their temporary homes, then tiptoed away to try to escape. Urchins, sea cucumbers and sea stars, all spiny-skinned echinoderms, were also fun to examine at close range.
The sun set over the Sierra de la Giganta soon after we gathered on the beach for dinner ashore. The evening brought back memories of childhood with singing, storytelling, roasted marshmallows and s’mores.
Our first morning on the Sea Bird found us at the north end of Isla San Jose searching for marine life. Following breakfast, our efforts were rewarded when one of the naturalists spotted spouts of fin whales in the distance. These creatures are the second largest of all whales and are unique in having asymmetrical coloration. The left lower jaw is dark gray and the right side is white. Calves are about 20 feet long at birth, so one can hardly say that this was a small calf; nevertheless, it was dwarfed by the massive mother. It was a special treat to repeatedly watch these two rise to the surface, push the water up in front of them, then grab quick breaths before submerging again into the depths.
The sweeping crescent of Halfmoon Bay at Isla San Francisco was a perfect stop for an afternoon of kayaking and hiking. Groups scattered off in different directions to reach the ridge crests for impressive views or to explore the flatter terrain where salt-tolerant plants meet the edge of the desert. On the far side of the island, our Undersea Specialist gathered intertidal creatures to show to passing hikers. The prickly purple arms of brittle stars writhed and wriggled, while the more dainty hermit crabs hid inside their temporary homes, then tiptoed away to try to escape. Urchins, sea cucumbers and sea stars, all spiny-skinned echinoderms, were also fun to examine at close range.
The sun set over the Sierra de la Giganta soon after we gathered on the beach for dinner ashore. The evening brought back memories of childhood with singing, storytelling, roasted marshmallows and s’mores.
