Captains Log: October 23rd- October 27th 2025

Captain’s Log | Oct 9nd-Oct 12th, 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
October 24th – October 27th, 2025

We kicked off the weekend on Friday, October 24th, at 1:00 PM with a lively group of locals who also happen to be part of a harbor book club. I met them dockside at a harbor home, and together we loaded up the boat with a generous spread of snacks and beverages before setting off for an afternoon cruise.

As we made our way toward the mouth of the harbor, we noted the steady progress of construction at both Safe Harbor Marina and Bahia Yacht Marina — each getting closer to completion. Sea lions basked in the sun in front of the Channel Islands Maritime Museum and along the dredge pipes, where operations are now entering week three of a four-month project.

We cruised down the channel past Fisherman’s Wharf, now leased to Karl’s Group, where redevelopment plans are in the works. The area remains quiet for now, but there’s no doubt it’ll come alive again soon. One particularly nostalgic moment was spotting Bud Smith’s (known locally as the Godfather of Channel Islands Harbor) old boat, the Dry Martini — a true piece of harbor history. It would be wonderful to see that vessel recognized as a historic monument one day.

After dropping our book club adventurers back at their dock, I made a quick return to home base — just in time for our 3:00 PM tour. This next group was a visiting family eager to explore our harbor’s wildlife and landmarks. Almost immediately, we were greeted by a great blue heron and a variety of feathered locals — cormorants, pelicans, sandpipers, and egrets. A highlight came when we had a close encounter with one of our local urchin boats, captained by Jason. It’s always special to give visitors a glimpse of real harbor life in action.

Saturday, October 25th, was all about the Parade of Frights — the fourth annual lighted boat parade. Our theme was “The Ghosts of Ghouligan’s Island,” and our Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures boat joined the lineup with full spirit and spooky flair. Friends and crew transformed into classic characters — a Skipper, a Ghouligan, Mary Ann, the Professor, and even a Millionaire. Between 15 and 20 boats joined in, each glowing with Halloween lights and creative decorations. I can honestly say this was one of the most fun parades I’ve ever been part of in my career on the water. We wrapped up the night dockside with a fantastic surf-and-turf dinner — a tradition I hope we’ll carry on every year.

Then came Monday, October 27th — an unusual day for us to run a tour, but a special one nonetheless. We hosted a group from Fair Winds Senior Living, West Hills.  We took a calm cruise through the harbor, sharing stories and history while watching the wildlife. Smiles, memories, and laughter filled the afternoon — a wonderful reminder of what makes these adventures so meaningful.

With Halloween just around the corner and November on the horizon, it’s hard to believe how quickly this year has flown by. I’m grateful for every guest, every voyage, and every sunset shared out on these waters.

Captain Dave… Over ‘N Out 

— Until next tide, adventurers!

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