Whale watching in the Channel Islands of California will take you into the waters that surround eight islands in the Pacific. Five of these comprise the Channel Island State Park. When you are on the water you will first see geyser of the whale's blow, then perhaps he will rise, breaching from the water and pivot. Finally will be the dive, tail flukes last, into the deep. The thrilling experience is made even better by the warm California weather in the Channel Islands. You don't have to try to keep warm while watching the show.
Charters
Whale-watching charters in the Channel Islands can be found leaving from several California locations. One of these, Island Packers, works in and around Chanel Island State Park. Charter operators can be fournd in Channel Island Harbors, Santa Barbara and Ventura. There are operators based in Los Angeles. Rates vary depending upon the season and run from $32 per person to $98 per person for a four-hour tour. Child rates are lower. Charter guide give information about scenery along the way as you travel into the coves and inlets to look for whales.
The Whales
There are 27 species of whales and dolphins in the Channel Island waters. Nearly one third all cetaceans, that is whales, porpoises and dolphins can be seen in the waters surrounding the Channel Islands. The whales you may see are include blue, humpback, sperm whales and pilot whales. Orcas and gray whales and others swim around the eight Channel Islands.
When to Watch
Whales are found every month of the year in the Channels. Gray whales are seen during the winter months. Blue whales and humpbacks appear in summer. The early morning hours are best for watching. Late in the day the surf will be too choppy. You may be able to see whales from shore at this early hour. If you are in a private boat stay at least 100 yards away from whales.
Where to Watch
When whale watching from land, choose a high place where the land juts out into the water. Try Point Loma in San Diego or the Palos Verdes Peninsula near Los Angeles. If you are in Channel Islands State Park, there is a tower where you may seach for whales with telescopes. If you are on a charter, the captain will know promising spots and take you to them.
Cautions
Whales are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This means it is against the law to harm them or get too close to them. When you are in a private craft you must stay at least 100 yards away from the whales. If you get too close you will probably disturb the whales as they search for food or tend their young. The whales may harm you if they move suddenly and you are too close. Remember that they are powerful wild animals.
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