Santa Rosa Island Boat Ride Turns Into Front-Row Wildlife Show

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) - A trip to Santa Rosa Island delivered more than an island view.

Warmer ocean conditions helped bring a colorful mix of marine life close to the surface during a recent Island Packers boat ride through the Channel Islands.

Passengers spotted a large sunfish glowing in the water along with pink jellyfish and flying fish darting near the boat.

Then came the biggest surprise.

Dozens of dolphins appeared alongside the vessel, racing through the waves and surrounding passengers on both sides.

The unexpected wildlife show gave those onboard a close-up look at the rich marine life surrounding the Channel Islands.

Island Packers crews regularly travel these waters and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, but conditions can make every crossing different.

For passengers on this trip, the journey to Santa Rosa Island became part of the adventure itself.

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