Description
They're back! A pod of 13 rare Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) orcas was spotted off the Southern California coast by Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, marking our second encounter with these incredible killer whales in less than a month!
During this extraordinary encounter, the orcas approached our whale watching catamaran in a behavior known as "mugging." This occurs when whales and dolphins voluntarily approach a vessel and linger nearby, sometimes circling, swimming alongside, or investigating the boat.
The pod separated into smaller groups before reuniting, giving passengers an unforgettable opportunity to observe these fascinating apex predators up close.
"Spending time with a family of killer whales is absolutely surreal. They literally own the ocean." — Captain Gary Brighouse
Eastern Tropical Pacific orcas remain relatively little understood, making encounters like this especially remarkable. Their movements, social behavior, and use of Southern California waters continue to intrigue researchers.
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🐳 Captain Dave's Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari offers five-star, eco-friendly, Dana Point dolphin & whale watching experiences with award-winning customer service.
Located in Dana Point, California. Multiple unique and uncrowded vessels include a Catamaran Sailboat with 2 Eye-to-Eye Underwater Viewing Pods and intimate, high-speed Zodiac-style vessels.
Tel: (949) 488-2828
Web: https://www.dolphinsafari.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaptDavesWhaleWatching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captdaveswhalewatching/
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Dolphin and whale footage is copyright Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari and may not be used without permission.
📷 Video filmed by Amanda McFadden, Chloe Taylor, and Matt Nevitt