Welcome to The Captains log. This is a weekly update, archiving the previous weekend. The Captains Log is published every Tuesday following the week and includes a recap of the weekend, a video (hosted by our YouTube channel), and photos recounting the memories made. The images are shot, edited, and stored as High Definition. In order to save bandwidth, the images are condensed into web format on this page. If you appear in the photograph and want a high resolution copy, please email cimarinesafari@gmail.com with your request.
Captains Log
Captain Dave Colker
September 11th – September 14th, 2025
Captain’s Log | Sept 11th–Sept 14th, 2025
Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures
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Captain: Dave Colker
Vessel: North Sea
Ahoy Adventurers!
Captain’s Log
Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures
Captain’s Log
September 11th – September 14th, 2025
Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures
What a weekend this was! One for the books—an incredible blend of on-the-water adventures and a landside event that reminded us why this harbor community is so special.
We started on Thursday, September 11th, with a very first for Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures. Adventurer Allison and her daughters, in town celebrating Allison’s pre-retirement, booked back-to-back tours: a sunset safari followed by a morning safari the next day. Thursday evening’s trip set the tone with a record number of bird sightings—mallard ducks, blue herons, snowy and great egrets, pelicans, gulls, and even our first recorded terns. The highlight came when one of our adventurers spotted what appeared to be a rare albino sea lion lounging on Kitty Beach—a remarkable and memorable find. The sunset that night painted the sky in brilliant colors, setting the stage for Friday morning.
At 9 a.m. Friday, Allison and her crew were back aboard, bright and early, ready for round two. This trip began with a cormorant skimming the water’s surface near Sea Bridge and quickly turned into a lively adventure. At the breakwater, we witnessed military activity out of Port Hueneme as a chopper flew low, buzzing from the south jetty to the north. The group gave a cheerful wave and salute. We also spotted the return of the bait boat, sitting low in the water and fully loaded, a sure sign that the weekend’s fishing would be in full swing.
Later that day, we welcomed familiar faces—our long-time adventurers Bud and Sue, now on their fifth safari with us. They’ve become part of our extended family, always bringing guests along and waving from their balcony whenever we pass their waterfront home. Their ongoing support means the world.
In between tours, Captain Dave has been working hard on a special project: the transformation of the boat from its summer 4th of July American flag theme to a new handcrafted bamboo look. Juggling tours and paintbrushes isn’t easy, but both starboard and port sides are complete, with the bow up next. The results are already turning heads, and Captain Dave couldn’t be more excited about the fresh look.
Our final safari of the weekend was unforgettable. , . This sunset tour was extraordinary—pelicans soaring gracefully in the orange glow as the sun disappeared behind the breakwall. The “Sunset Photo of the Week” was captured during this voyage: pelicans silhouetted in flight against the glowing horizon. Even a few duffies ventured beyond the breakwall, bobbing like corks as they tested the open waters.
On Sunday, safaris paused for a different kind of adventure: the return of the 2025 Channel Islands Harbor Chowder Fest, held at the Maritime Museum. It was monumental—over 800 attendees, supported by nearly 100 volunteers, enjoying an afternoon of chowder tasting, music, and community spirit. Captain Dave was there, camera in hand, capturing the sights, the smiles, and of course, sampling the chowders. His journey began with Portola’s Italian Kitchen, whose over-the-top cioppino—rich with calamari, mussels, clams, and a jumbo shrimp—set the bar sky-high for the day.
From there, the tasting continued booth by booth, each restaurant showcasing its own spin on a classic. There were creamy New England chowders loaded with potatoes and clams, lighter broth-based creations full of fresh catch, and inventive versions with spicy heat, smoky bacon, or roasted corn. Each sample told its own story about the culinary culture of our harbor.
The event wasn’t just about chowder, though. Local bands provided the soundtrack, families strolled the museum grounds, and children dashed between tasting tents. With the museum exhibits open and the waterfront bustling, it felt like a true harbor homecoming.
Captain Dave took time to thank volunteers and chat with chefs, hearing stories of their recipes and what inspired them. The energy was contagious—neighbors, visitors, and food lovers alike coming together to celebrate not just chowder, but the very spirit of our community.
By the time the afternoon wrapped up, bellies were full, conversations lingered, and laughter filled the air. Everyone left with their own “winner” in mind, but for Captain Dave, the real victory was the unity, joy, and flavor that filled the harbor. The return of Chowder Fest was more than just a success—it was a celebration of everything that makes the Channel Islands Harbor the heart of our coastal community.
End of Log.
Captain Dave… Over ‘N Out 
— Until next tide, adventurers!
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2025 CHOWDERFEST at The Channel Islands Maritime Museum Sunday Sept 14th 2:00pm to 6pm
Thank You Adventurers! Captain Dave sends a personal Thank You! You helped make this weekend monumental and helped to archive the happenings on the harbor! Captain Dave… Over ‘N Out 😉
