Cruise: Pacific Coast in Spring (May) Highlights
Our May West Coast Repositioning Cruise, led by Ed Corey and Ben Lucking, experienced the types of conditions where seabirds truly thrive: the captain and crew of Holland America’s Zaandam steered us safely through 15-20 foot seas and 30+ kt winds! And while access was at times challenging due to safety concerns, the participants persevered and were able to see several pelagic species that can be difficult to encounter on a day boat, including Laysan Albatross, as well as Cook’s, Hawaiian, and Murphy’s Petrels! The tour also encountered several seasonal rarities, like South Polar Skua and Wilson’s Storm-Petrel. Marine mammals were well represented, with highlights including a close Sei Whale with a group of Fin Whales, two different pods of transient (Biggs’) Orca, and a brief look at Northern Right Whale Dolphins in high seas! Persistence paid off, and each of the participants came away a more seasoned and enthusiastic seabirder than before.
