Twenty-six miles across the sea, Santa Catalina is a-waiting for me! With strong swell this morning, we decided to anchor in the isthmus cove of Two Harbors. Protected from the wind and waves we set out early to kayak and hike our way around the island. Those who took to land explored not only Two Harbors but also Cat Harbor, a quick half-mile walk away from our landing. The dirt path was covered in tracks from the endemic native fox as well as the non-native bison of the island. It was amazing to watch the once endangered brown pelican fishing in the deep waters and see the vibrant garibaldi bopping around the nearshore kelp forests!
4/24/2024
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National Geographic Quest
Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands
The first day of adventure around the Channel Islands National Park found National Geographic Quest exploring Anacapa Island. Inhabited and named by the Chumash people, Anyapax (or Anacapa in English) means mirage or illusion and refers to the atmospheric phenomena that occasionally distorts the appearance of the island when viewed from the mainland. Known as the Galapagos of North America, guests were able to experience Anacapa Island both by foot and by Zodiac cruising during the morning operations. Taking in sights such as endemic plants, blooming coreopsis, and California sea lions. The afternoon had us transiting over to Santa Cruz Island where some guests were able to get ashore while others enjoyed a lecture by naturalist Jim Coyer. Drinks and yummy hors d’oeuvres were plentiful during cocktail hour and recap, and the evening wrapped up with another lecture on island ecology by naturalist Kelly Morgan. It was a wonderful start to our Channel Islands adventure.