FIB’ers Kid’s Ministry Whale Watching Trip 3/3/2010 - by Del Brunning
The day was cool and clear, with ominous clouds lurking on the horizon, as 70 Olive Crest kids and counselors, along with 4 FIB’ers, boarded the Nautilus and headed out of Newport Landing in hopes of a whale sighting. The sea was calm in spite of a stiff breeze that gnawed at our faces.
Captain Robbie headed straight out of the jetty and headed north up the coast and immediately we caught up with two ambling Grey Whales. We followed their blows and enjoyed watching them until we were about opposite the Edison Plant when we spotted some playful dolphin headed our way. They weren’t real interested in hanging around for long as they plowed their way by causing the kids to squeal with excitement. The kid’s really love to watch the dolphin.
Leaving the Grey’s, we made a big sweep toward the South as we headed back home. Suddenly, we spotted some gigantic blows. As we headed toward them, Captain Robbie explained that we were observing Fin Whales, the second largest whale in the ocean. He said that they are not normally found in this area but must like the feeding so we watched three of them for quite a while. They were more difficult to watch, however, because they don’t travel in a straight line like Grey’s do so, when they dive, they can come up anywhere. After that, we headed home being thankful for what God had allowed us to observe in His creation.
Everyone had a great time watching not one, but two species of whales and five in total; a record for our trips. Add to that the birds, dolphin, and lazy sea lions observed on the bell buoy and we can call this trip “fantastic”.
Many thanks go out to the FIB’ers who served with me on the trip; Libby Spangler, Floyd Spangler, and Don White.
