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
October 24th-27th, 2025
Open all of Thanksgiving Weekend, including Thanksgiving Day.
Slideshow of the Weekend!
Captain’s Log | Nov 2nd, 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
November 2nd, 2025
Sunday brought clear skies, calm seas, and two incredible adventures aboard Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures.
At 1:00 p.m., a group of three travelers from out of state joined me for a guided Marine Safari Adventure. No sooner had we departed than we were greeted by our good friend Bluey, the resident Blue Heron, perched proudly by the small bridge — right where he likes to keep watch. His appearance was a fitting start to what would become a record-breaking bird-watching safari.
Our previous record didn’t stand a chance. We saw a stunning variety of local and migratory species: Blue Heron, Cormorants, Western Gulls, Western Grebes, American Coots, Brown Pelicans, Common Terns, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Sandpipers, and Herman’s Gulls. The only missing regular was the Mallard — I kept my eyes peeled, but no luck this time.
The sea lions were out in full force, lounging along the temporary dredge pipes and scattered docks, enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon. Both Anacapa Safe Harbor Marina and Bahia Yacht Marina looked nearly complete — they’re really coming along.
Docked in front of the old Whale’s Tail and Maritime Museum was the Mystic Whaler, back in the harbor and looking right at home. Also spotted: the U.S. Coast Guard’s 87-foot patrol boat, the TERN, visiting from San Francisco. Not sure what brought her here — possibly training or post-mission downtime — but always good to see the Coasties around!
All told, it was a memorable afternoon, and I’m confident our adventurers left with stories and photos they’ll be sharing for years to come.
At 4:15 p.m., we launched our sunset cruise — yes, that’s right, 4:15. With the time change, our sunset tours now head out a bit earlier, a sure sign that fall is in full swing and winter is just around the bend.
Our group of four came ready to be dazzled, and Mother Nature did not disappoint. The moon was already high and bright, following us across the water like a silent escort. Out at the harbor entrance, the sun dipped behind the mountains of Santa Cruz Island, painting the sky in gold.
The tide was high, and we watched the sun set perfectly over the break wall before heading just outside for a second look. The swell was big — a solid four to five feet — but stretched out nicely, long and rolling. You could feel the sheer volume of water moving. Nights like this make me think the lobsters were surely crawling, though with the dredge still active, hoop netting along the wall remains off limits. Probably a good night for the lobsters — not so much for the fishermen.
Two trips, two incredible experiences.
Captain Dave… Over ‘N Out 
— Until next tide, adventurers!
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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 😉
Check out our previous Adventures Below! Watch the Harbor Develop! We are not just talking about the history of the harbor – we are making it!
