The Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary is alive with an abundance of wild life including COMMON DOLPHINS, CALIFORNIA SEA LIONS, HARBOR SEALS, plus HUMPBACK AND BLUE WHALES! Island Packers is now offering north shore Anacapa Island Wildlife Cruises and all day Whale Watch Trips through the fall of 2010. According to Island Packers, the sightings of the blue whales have been outstanding this year. “On the last two whale watch trips, we saw 10 blues!” stated Cherryl Connally of Island Packers. “This is a great time to see these incredible mammals,” she added.

Visitors can discover the natural environment of the Channel Islands National Park on the north shore wildlife cruise without even going ashore! This three-½ hour tour includes a narrated cruise along the 300 foot high sea cliffs of the craggy shoreline of Anacapa or Santa Cruz Islands. Along the way, visitors will encounter excellent sightings of seabirds, harbor seals and sea lions in their island habitat. While crossing the channel, it is also possible to view sightings of whales, dolphins and porpoises. Boats depart at 9:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The fare is $ 32.00 for adults, $ 28 for seniors (55+) and $ 23.00 per child.

Every year from July thru September, the most amazing natural wonders occur with the current sightings of the Blue Whales. The whales can be seen between Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Islands with average sightings of two to four whales per trip. The summer bloom of plankton attracts birds, fish and mammals to the waters surrounding the Channel Islands. Each year, approximately 200 of these leviathans come to the local waters to feed. The Blues are the largest of the whales up to 33 meters (110 ft) and close to 200 tons. The trip is an all-day event and is recommended for those who enjoy being on boats. Naturalists from the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary are onboard as well as Island Packers trained crew naturalist. The trip consists of a cruise near Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Island with a visit into the Painted Cave on west Santa Cruz Island. In addition to the Blues, other marine life that might be encountered include: pelagic birds, dolphins, sharks, ocean sunfish, humpback, fin and minke whales. The fare is $63 for adults, $57 for seniors (55+) and $47 per child.

Boats depart from Ventura or Channel Islands Harbor at 9 a.m. and return by 4 p.m. The vessels are U.S. Coast Guard Certified to carry 80 to 130 passengers per trip. Seating is available on the upper and lower cabin with a snack bar.

It’s suggested that visitors pack food for the day and dress warm in layers. The trip offers plenty of time to capture the venture on film, so it is also suggested to pack a camera and binoculars for greater viewing. Dining opportunities are available at both Harbors before or after the trip. For schedules and information visit the web site at www.islandpackers.com or call 805-642-1393.

About Island Packers
Cruising the California Channel Islands for education, recreation, and research since 1968, Island Packers Cruises has over 40 years of experience as a tour operator in the waters of the Channel Islands National Park. Island Packers provides transportation services for island hiking, camping, kayaking, whale watching, school field trips, sightseeing, and harbor cruises.