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 3rd – September 7th, 2025
Captain’s Log | Sept 3rd–Sept 7th, 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
We started our post-Labor Day week with a strong beginning. On Wednesday, I had the privilege of hosting a private sunset harbor tour for Robert Dahl, owner of Karl’s Village. His group, Karl’s, was recently approved for the redevelopment of the 10-acre parcel in Channel Islands Harbor formerly known as Fisherman’s Wharf — soon to become Karl’s Village. Robert brought along his team of executives, including his son and daughter, and Axel Stelter, Karl’s California representative.
The evening began with a spread of snacks and beverages as we cruised through the harbor. Our first stop was the freshly painted lighthouse at Karl’s Village, shining like a beacon of what’s to come. We wrapped the evening at the break wall, where the sea lions frolicked and seabirds filled the sky as the sun dipped behind the horizon. The night closed with a tiki-themed glow aboard Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures. It was truly a pleasure having Karl’s Group on board, and we warmly welcome them to the harbor. With Karl’s Village slated to open in spring 2028, there is much to look forward to in the years ahead.
On Thursday, I shifted gears for a two-day sprint of boat work — transforming the vessel’s look. The American flag theme from summer was retired, replaced by the beginnings of a new bamboo motif. Thursday was primer day, and by Friday evening I had tattooed the lines that will serve as the foundation of the bamboo look. It was a race against time, but I finished just in time to prepare for Saturday’s big event.
Saturday was nothing short of historic. The Channel Islands Harbor Patrol and Harbor Administration hosted the first Concert on the Sea at the Turning Basin. The commercial passenger vessel Estella, from Hooks Landing served as the floating stage for local favorite band Once More, who played a perfect soundtrack for life on the water. The harbor came alive with anchored boats, duffies, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and even a few marine bicycles — neighbors tied up together, new visitors mixed in, and the community spirit thrived.
The Harbor Administration did a stellar job organizing the event, from buoying off an anchorage area to keeping traffic lanes clear. Ventura County’s Harbor Patrol, Fire Boat, Sheriff’s Department, and first responders worked seamlessly to ensure safety for all. Watching their coordination was as impressive as the concert itself. Our passengers enjoyed every moment, meeting new friends, reconnecting with old ones, and celebrating what felt like the beginning of a new harbor tradition.
This weekend will be remembered as a milestone — one that sets the tone for the future of events here at Channel Islands Harbor. I’m grateful to have been part of it, and I look forward to the growth and momentum this will surely bring.
As a side note, next Sunday, September 14th, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum will host Chowder Fest. I plan on being there to sample 15 different varieties of chowder and mingle with locals. It promises to be another epic weekend — I hope to see you there.
— Captain Dave
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 😉
