WELCOME TO DANA POINT’S 42ND ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WHALES By Steven Weinberg, Mayor of Dana Point
Welcome to Dana Point as we begin celebrating our 42nd annual Festival of Whales beginning with the Festival of Whales parade on Saturday, March 2. I am very proud to announce that the 2013 Parade Grand Marshal is Staff Sergeant Mark Zambon of the United States Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Pendleton. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Selva and continues along Pacific Coast Highway through Town Center, ending at the Festival of Whales Street Fare at La Plaza Park. The Festival of Whales celebrates the southern migration of the California gray whales along the coastal bluffs of Dana Point with several events over two weekends: March 2-3 and March 9-10.
There are activities for everyone throughout the festival, including whale watching excursions, historic and marine science education, car shows, active water and land experiences, art, film and lots of live music—all conveniently connected via a free shuttle service. Festival of Whales is a Dana Point community celebration and partnership with the Festival of Whales Committee of Dana Point Harbor merchants, the Chamber of Commerce, the OC Dana Point Harbor Department, the city of Dana Point and many individuals, clubs, nonprofit groups, businesses and sponsors. Whatever your interests, I encourage you to take advantage of the many exciting activities during the twoweekend Festival of Whales. For more detailed day-byday event listings or to see the free shuttle route, turn the pages of this program or visit www.festivalofwhales.com. DP
YOUTH IN ACTION
Local teens add energy and fresh perspective to Festival of Whales
This year’s top five designs submitted by Dana Hills students are on display at the Dana Point Community Center through March 2. Shown here (L to R) are designs by winner Steven Kazarian and runners-up Frankie Michinok, Katie McAndrews, Bryan Emerson and Hasti Sharf. Photo by Brian Park
This year’s Festival of Whales logo contest winner Steven Kazarian (Dana Hills class of 2012) shows his winning design at the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, Calif., where he is a freshman. Photo by Brendan Buonsignore
As Dana Point celebrates the migration of the California gray whales past the landmark cliffs of the headlands, the Festival of Whales provides an impressive selection of fun and educational ways for young people—and others of all ages—to learn, as guests, about the majestic marine mammals. But, for the second year, the festival has expanded its behind-the-scenes participation of local youth. Last year Dana Hills High School students were invited to submit artwork for the festival logo and to display other work at the festival art exhibit, Art in the Park. Both programs have carried on. This year Dana Hills class of 2012 alum Steven Kazarian—now a freshman at the California Maritime Academy—was chosen and honored as the creator of this year’s logo and four runners-up were named. Ninety art students from Dana Hills once again found inspiration during a photography fieldtrip—whale watching aboard the Dana Wharf vessel Dana Pride and exploring
the Ocean Institute’s tallship brig Pilgrim. The program was also expanded for this year’s 42nd annual event to include more than visual arts. Culinary arts students will be competing in the chowder cook-off and the school is fielding three teams to compete in the sandsculpting contest. So while exploring the many great events and exhibits— from listening to the marching band in the parade to tasting chowder to viewing art—take note of the abundance of talent and enthusiasm the teens of Dana Point add to the festival. And don’t forget to make a point of visiting the Festival of Whales online at www.festivalofwhales.com and the Dana Point Times at www.danapointtimes.com to read the stories and see the artwork and photographs of these young people who add so much energy and fresh perspective to the city’s longest standing tradition. DP — Andrea Swayne
www.festivalofwhales.com
Photo by Nora Yeretzian
THE WHALES ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND... Visit the Festival of Whales for less with OCTA and Metrolink
Environmentally- and economically-conscious travelers will be glad to know that the Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink will once again be offering special deals to and from the Festival of Whales. For just $10, visitors can purchase a weekend pass, valid for system-wide travel from 7 p.m. Friday through 11:59 Sunday. Weekend passes can be purchased at any Metrolink station ticket vending machine. To get to the Festival of Whales from the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station, take OCTA Bus Route 91 south to Dana Point. For bicycle riders, all Metrolink cars can accommodate bikes—just look for one of Metrolink’s special bicycle cars marked with large yellow signs that read “Bicycle Car.” From San Juan Capistrano, riders can take the bikeway to Dana Point and the festival. Full train and bus schedules can be found online at www. octa.net/metrolink/octa-promotions/festival-of-whales. OCTA and Metrolink are also offering special discounts at local businesses: • Display your Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lane transponder with Dana Wharf Whale Watching or the Ocean Institute for 50 percent off whale watching excursion ticket prices. To make reservations, call Dana Wharf Whale Watching at 949.496.5764 or the Ocean Institute at 949.496.2274. • Visitors to the Festival of Whales can stay overnight at the Dana Point Marina Inn for a special rate of $69, single or double occupancy. Make sure to mention the OCTA rate when you make reservations and show your ticket, bus pass or transponder when you check in. The Dana Point Marina Inn can be reached at 949.496.1203. • Show your ticket, bus pass or transponder at The Coffee Importers when you buy one premium coffee and get a second one for free. The offer expires March 31. The Coffee Importers is located at 34531 Golden Lantern Street, in Mariners Village in Dana Point Harbor. DP 3
FESTIVAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ARTS AND CULTURE
two for $10; need not be present to win. Funds will benefit the Dana Point Library Summer Children’s Reading Program. E15
Art in the Park March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Local artists along with art students from Dana Hills High School display a variety of works on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. E12
Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition
Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
March 2, 3, 9, 10; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point Fine Arts Association hosts an art show and sale on the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village. Watercolor, oil, acrylic and photography by local artists will be available for purchase. A portion of the sales will be donated to the Dana Hills High School Art Department. E7
Historical Walking Tour of Town Center March 2,
3, 9, 10; 2 p.m. Meet a guide from the Historical Society—at the corner of Blue Lantern and PCH—for a historic Town Center walking tour of buildings, private homes and landmarks, circa 1924 to 1939. Event is free but donations will be accepted. E9
Polynesian Connection Festival March 9; 11 a.m.3 p.m. The Hula Connection, Senior Wish and the city of Dana Point present a day of Polynesian culture, music, dance and educational experiences on the stretch of lawn between Island Way and Baby Beach. Activities for kids such as lei making, Maori poi ball demonstrations and more will educate and entertain. The festival opens with a blessing by an official of the Juaneño/Acjachemen tribal nation, indigenous to the Dana Point area. E14 Public Reading: ‘Two Years Before the Mast’
March 8, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; March 9, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and March 10, 9 a.m.-noon The Dana Point Historical Society hosts the third annual public reading of Richard Henry Dana Jr’s Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Over 100 volunteer readers will read for eight to 10 minutes each. The event is free but donations will be gratefully accepted. E5
CLASSIC CARS So Cal Woodies March 2, noon-4 p.m.; March 3, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Woodie cars from the So Cal Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the Harbor walkway. Take a stroll and enjoy these iconic surf wagons of the past. E11 Whale of a Classic Car Display March 9, 10;
10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club, formed in 1954 in the San Gabriel Valley, will display approximately 40 classics and hot rods. E11
FOOD Dana Point Restaurant Week March 1-10 The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present Dana Point Restaurant Week. The city’s most talented chefs will personalize their menus to celebrate the Festival of the Whales. Check www.festivalofwhales.com or www. dprestaurantweek.com for details. Grunion Run Whale of a Pancake Breakfast
March 9; 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Pancake breakfast at Doheny State Beach. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Bring your Grunion Run bib and receive $1 off breakfast. Proceeds 4
E = See map on page 8
The new Polynesian Connection Festival will bring island culture to this year’s Festival of Whales. Courtesy photo
March 3; 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. OC Parks presents a competition on the sand at Baby Beach. Teams from families and friends to hard-core sand sculpting enthusiasts are welcome. Sculpting areas are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Choose one of five categories: castles, whales and ocean creatures, pirates and ships, woodies and surfboards, or patriotic emblems. Judging begins at 2:30 p.m. with awards to follow. Bring buckets and tools. Dyes and stabilizers are not allowed—all natural. E15
will benefit the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association and the State Lifeguard Association. E16
LEARNING ABOUT WHALES AND THE OCEAN ENVIRONMENT
Whale of a BBQ March 3, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; March 9,
Art Lessons with Wyland March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-
11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Delicious barbecue specialties at affordable prices will be served adjacent to Baby Beach. Choose from tri-tip sandwiches, mouth-watering chicken sandwiches, scrumptious salads and more. E15
Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off March 3; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sample a variety of tasty chowders from local restaurants and organizations and then vote for your favorites along the Harbor walkway near Island Way. Cost is $5 for five tastes and $10 for 12. All proceeds will benefit Fish for Life, an organization that teaches fishing skills to people with special needs. E11 Whale of a Concert BBQ March 10; noon-5 p.m.
Concessions for scrumptious barbecue specialties will be available during the Whale of a Concert. A Spirits Garden will be available for those over 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. E15
VFW Whale of a Pancake Breakfast March 3; 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by VFW Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Adults are $6 and children under 12 are $3. E8
FUN AND GAMES Diamond Dig March 3; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dig for buried treasure at the 4th annual Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club event at Baby Beach. Dress as a pirate and get a head start. Cost is $10 per shovel. Last year toys, bicycles and a diamond necklace were among the booty found. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. E15 Street Fare March 2; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point
Chamber of Commerce invites you to the annual Street Fare for an unforgettable day of food, music and entertainment for the whole family. The carnival-style fare begins immediately following the parade at Dana Point La Plaza Park. E2
Whale of a Rubber Ducky Race March 3; 11 a.m.-
2 p.m. The Dana Point Women’s Club hosts this fun spin on a traditional “rubber ducky race” at Baby Beach. Duckies may be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.5706 or the day of the event at the onsite DPWC table. Prizes awarded to the top three finishers. Cost is $6 per duck or
10:45 a.m. Learn from renowned environmental artist, Wyland at a dockside video presentation and art lesson aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran. Children can enter their art in a contest to receive a whale watching trip with Wyland. $5 per child. Proceeds benefit the Wyland Foundation. E3
Book Signing: ‘Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey’
March 9; 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Capt. Dave Anderson of Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari will sign copies of his book, Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey, inspired by true events. Readers join Lily on her adventures of discovery and wonder from Baja to Siberia while learning about a devastating problem that takes the lives of over 1,000 dolphins and whales worldwide every day. Books will be available for purchase and Capt. Dave will be giving away a free, signed copy. E4
Book Signing: ‘The Amazing Adventures of Captain Don’ March 2; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Stop by Dana Wharf
Sportfishing for a book signing by Captain Don himself. The first 100 children (10 and under) will also have a picture taken with him. Buy a second book and get an opportunity to spin the prize wheel. Book sale proceeds will benefit the Gray Whale Foundation. E3
Capt. Dave’s Kids’ Carnival March 9; noon-2 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari Kids’ Carnival offers fun for the whole “pod.” Drop by the Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for free activities, prizes, games, crafts, face painting and more. E4 Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum March 10; 11a.m.-3p.m. A variety of genuine
marine mammal artifacts will be on display at the Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center, just inside the park entry station, for attendees to learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they can direct you to an appropriate parking location. This event is free. Please note: free vehicle parking at Doheny State Beach for the Marine Mammal Museum is limited to one hour only. E16
Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Marine mammals are among the most beloved icons of the California coast and yet much of their life (Cont. on page 6) www.festivalofwhales.com
(Cont. from page 4) history and biology remains a mystery. Attend Dana Wharf’s Marine Mammal Lecture Series at Harpoon Henry’s to learn some of the latest discoveries about them. Enjoy a continental breakfast as marine biologists and special guests present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. March 2: Doug Thompson on Gray whales and San Ignacio Lagoon; March 3: Dennis Kelly on bottlenose dolphin and sea otters; March 9: Alisa Schulman-Janiger on killer whales and the Gray Whale Census; March 10: Todd Mansur on Gray whales and migration. Following the lecture, board the OCean Adventures catamaran for whale watching. Lecture is free with purchase of the cruise and includes breakfast. Lecture and breakfast only is $5 per person, at the door. For tickets visit www.danawharf. com or call 949.496.5794. E17
Movie: ‘Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California’ March 9, 10; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit Capt. Dave’s
Dolphin & Whale Safari Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for an exclusive free viewing of Captain Dave’s award winning documentary, Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. Signed DVDs will be available for purchase. Screenings will be held every hour. In 1995 Capt. Dave mounted an underwater camera and hydrophone on the bow of his boat and began taking his cameras on every trip to record what his passengers experienced. It took him five years to create the documentary, an experience that has forever changed his life.Throughout the day relax and enjoy the Dolphin Deck with the best view in the harbor. Sandwiches, snacks, ice cream and refreshments available for purchase. For more information call 949.488.2828 or see www.dolphinsafari.com. E4
Ocean Awareness Day March 3; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association, Ocean Awareness Day features interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues, near Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center. E15
Ocean Institute’s World of Whales March 2, 3, 9, 10;
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and fascinating world of whales allowing visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to these magnificent animals. There will be opportunities to examine how they communicate and eat, to see how pollution can affect them, learn about ongoing research and create fun whale-themed crafts. Additional activities include animal feedings, ROV driving and tide pool touch tanks. Admission is $6.50 for adults (13 and up) and $4.50 for children (3 -12); Children 2 and under and members are free. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org. E6
Seashore Interpretive Family Hike March 2, 3, 9, 10;
times are based on tides Take a guided family tide pool hike through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. Hikes are available on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute. Free with paid admission. E6
Whale of a Beach Cleanup March 9; 9 a.m.-noon Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Ranger Vicki at Lifeguard Headquarters and learn more about how you can help maintain our precious coastal resources. E16 Whale Watching via Live Streaming Video
March 2, 3, 9, 10 Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari streams live video on www.whalewatchingtv.com from 6
Robertson, violinist Mira Khomik, tenor Joshua Guerrero and baritone Gregorio Gonzalez will be featured. Surfboard art by Paul Carter, Michael Brindley and Heather Ritts will also be on display. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students under 16 years, seniors over 65 and military with ID. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.danapointsymphony.com. E13
Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ
Marines from Camp Pendleton march in the 2012 Festival of Whales Parade. Photo by Andrea Swayne
their hi-tech catamaran on the open ocean. Stop by the Dolphin Deck throughout the day to watch. E4
Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure March 3, 9; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of whales. Join the Ocean Institute for a tallship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California coast. Non-member price is $40 for adults and $23 for children 12 and under. Members pay $36 for adults and $21 for children 12 and under. Minimum age is 4. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org. E6
MERCHANDISE Festival T-shirts and Sweatshirts March 2, 3, 9, 10 Short- and long-sleeved T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both weekends of the festival and available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com. Click on “store.” M
MOVIES Movie in the Park: ‘Flipper’ March 2; 6:30 p.m. Head
to the grassy area of Baby Beach for a free showing of the 1963 box office hit Flipper (PG) presented by the city of Dana Point Community Services and Parks Department and the County of Orange. Free popcorn will be served and hot beverages and snacks will be available for purchase. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinner and enjoy this family friendly movie at dusk. E15
MUSIC Harbor Music Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; noon-3 p.m. A variety of music styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Jolly Roger/Dana Wharf courtyard, the grassy area by Harpoon Henry’s, Mariner’s Village and Art in the Park. E10 KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz Live Remote March 2; 9 a.m.-3
p.m. Stop in and visit with the DJs and staff from Saddleback College Radio KSBR 88.5 and enjoy a morning “cup of jazz” followed by entertainment throughout the day in the Dana Wharf courtyard area. E3
Opera and the Ocean March 8; 7:30 p.m. The Dana
Point Symphony Orchestra presents “Opera and the Ocean” at St. Edwards Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera. Concert features a new ocean-themed commission by composer Athena Adamopoulos and a video art commission from Alisa Lapidus of the LA Opera. Soprano Victoria
March 10, noon-5 p.m. The city of Dana Point and OC Dana Point Harbor present an outdoor concert at Baby Beach with bands performing atop a specially designed floating stage. The Dave Silver Band opens from noon to1 p.m., followed by the United States Air Force Mobility Rock Band from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Savor: a Tribute to Santana from 3:30 p.m. to 5 pm. Bring beach chairs, towels and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment. Concessions for barbecue specialties will also be available, along with a Spirits Garden for those over 21. E15
OUTDOOR AND WATER SPORTS Festival of Whales Grunion Run March 9; 7:45 a.m.10 a.m. The fifth annual Grunion Run features a 10K at 7:45 a.m., 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m., Kids’ 1K Run at 9:45 a.m. and awards at 10 a.m. Free pre-run shuttle service begins at 6 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, a nonprofit organization which supports interpretive, educational programs at Doheny State Beach. For more information or to pre-register, visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. E16 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip March 3, 10; clinic noon-12:30 p.m.; fishing trip 12:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites all children to attend a dockside fishing clinic to learn hands-on angling techniques from the experts. Prizes will be raffled at the end of the lesson. Following the clinic Dana Wharf will run a fishing trip where kids 12 and under fish free including equipment. Adults are $44 plus license and equipment. For reservations, call 949.496.5794. E3 Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup March 9; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Stand-up paddle with surfing legend Mickey Muñoz and friends at Baby Beach and enjoy a day of paddling fun, SUP clinics and camaraderie. The fifth annual event begins with the Fun Paddle around Harbor Island. There will also be a SUPcross. All participants receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt and a barbecue lunch. E15 Sailing Rides March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing—at the OC Sailing & Event Center—teaches passengers how to sail a Capri 14. Half-hour sessions are $15 per boat, three people max, ages 5 and up. Call 949.492.3035 for details. E8 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.3 p.m. Join the SUP craze and learn why it’s the fastest growing water sport today. Westwind Sailing hosts 45-minute on-the-water clinics, on the hour, for ages 12 and up. Cost is $10 per person. Call 949.492.3035 for details. E8
PARADE Festival of Whales Parade March 2; 10 a.m. The parade features floats, bands, horses, giant balloons, community organizations and more, related to the festival theme, “Magical Migration.” Parade route runs along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. E1 www.festivalofwhales.com
GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL Parking Shuttle Stop Event Whale Watching Excursions/Viewing Festival Merchandise Shuttle Route Parade Route Shuttle Route First Saturday
Walking Directions from OCTA Bus Stop For those guests that are utilizing the OCTA bus stops on PCH, you can reach the Festival by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance area or you can enter Doheny State Park (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the green barrier fence, then proceed towards the beach to the marked Festival of whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations. Parking and FREE Shuttle Information The FREE shuttle runs each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and services most parking lots and event locations. Parking in the Harbor is free, but limited to four hours. Parking at Doheny State Park is $8 for the entire day.
Parade Day Shuttle (March 2) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to and at the conclusion of the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor and ride to the drop-off location for the northerly parade announcer stand. At the conclusion of the Parade meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor. 10K, 5K and 1K Grunion Run Shuttle (March 9) FREE shuttle service will begin at 6 a.m. with pick ups at the Ocean Institute, OC Sailing & Event Center and at Golden Lantern/ Dana Point Harbor Drive. Drops off directly at Doheny State Beach for the Grunion Run event. This shuttle will not service any other locations. Regular shuttle service will commence at 10 a.m. Whale of a Concert Shuttle (March10) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m. on March 10.
EVENT SCHEDULE Saturday, March 2
E11 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.So Cal Woodies
E3
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz – Live Remote
E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series
E7
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
E3
E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park E1
10 a.m. – Noon Festival of Whales Parade
E8
10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics
E8
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides
E2 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Street Fare
E6
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute
E17 10 - 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series
E6
TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike
E6 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Ocean Institute
E4
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land
E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides E3
10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild
E15 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Awareness Day
Grunion Run - 10K Run/Walk 9 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - 5K Run/Walk 9:45 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - Kids’ 1K Run
Sunday, March 10 E5 9 a.m. – noon Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast
E15 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 5th Annual Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup
E7
E15 1 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mongoose Cup BBQ
E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park
E16 9 a.m. – Noon Whale of a Beach Cleanup – Festival of Whales Toast to the Coast
E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display
E5
E7
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series E6 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics
E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park
E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides
E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display
E3
E15 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Diamond Dig
E17 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series
E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike
E15 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby
10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild
E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series
E6
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute
E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land
E15 Noon – 4 p.m. Whale of a BBQ
E6
TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike
E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series
E3
Noon – 12:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Clinic
E8
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics
12:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Trip
E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing
E8
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides
E3
2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour
E3
10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild
Noon – 12:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Clinic
E3
2 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure
E4
12:45 p.m.– 5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Kids Free Fishing Trip
Friday, March 8
E14 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Polynesian Connection
E11 Noon – 4 p.m. So Cal Woodies E3
1 p.m.– 3 p.m. Dana Wharf Free Book Signing and Fun Prizes
E9 2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour
E3 E9 E6
E15 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Movie in the Park
Sunday, March 3 E8 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. VFW Whale of a Pancake Breakfast, Raffle and Entertainment E15 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition E7
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale
E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park E11 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 2nd Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off
www.festivalofwhales.com
E5
1 p.m.– 5 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of TwoYears Before the Mast
E13 7:30 p.m.– 9 p.m. Dana Point Symphony – Opera and the Ocean
Saturday, March 9 E16 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run FREE Shuttle Service 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run Pancake Breakfast 7:45 a.m. Festival of Whales
E4
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing
Noon – 2 p.m. Captain Dave’s Kids Carnival
E16 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum
E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E15 Noon – 5 p.m. Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ E9 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour
E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E4
1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Win a Free Book at Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari
E9
2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour
E6
2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 9
TRACKING THE MIGRATION Scientists use visual observation and photography to track individual gray whales during their annual migratory journey
During the Festival of Whales, keep your eye—and camera—out for the Eastern North Pacific (California) gray whale making its long journey down the coast of California. You’ll be witnessing the longest annual migration (10,000-12,000 miles) of any mammal on Earth, in much the same way scientists observe and track the By Kayla Causey whale population. The gray whale is a baleen whale that lives to be 50-70 years old and can reach a length of about 50 feet. Every October, after filling up on tiny crustaceans buried in the sea floor, 20,000 gray whales leave the Bering and Chukchi Seas of Alaska to find mates and birth calves in the warm—and orca-free—lagoons of Baja, Mexico. Gray whales fast during their entire journey—an incredibly taxing feat for a female whale who will soon birth and nurse a 13-foot, 2,000-pound calf. In California, we’re privileged to often see migrating gray whales right from our shores, thanks to their use of the coastline for navigation and protection from predators. Once they reach the lagoons between late December and early February, gray whales spend the next few months birthing and nursing calves and concluding their breeding season. In February and March, the first whales begin the northbound migration back to Alaska. Usually these are pregnant females. Mothers—referred to as cows—with
The “knuckles” on the back of a whale are one of the physical features researchers use to identify and study individual animals. Photo courtesy of James Gresham
newborn calves are the last to leave, and do so only when their calves are ready for the long journey home, usually in late March to mid-April. A gray whale nurses her calf for the entire journey up the coast, eating very little herself until she returns to the feeding grounds off of Alaska. Her milk is over 50 percent milk fat—think half-n-half coffee creamer—and her calf consumes between 50 and 80 gallons a day—about the amount contained in a large barrel. This continues for six to seven months. As a result, she loses over 30 percent of her body weight on the northbound migration. Once again in the cold waters of the Arctic, whales resume feeding. They do so by plowing up the ocean floor and filtering the mud and sand for crustaceans. Their “filter” is about 150 baleen plates, which are overlapping layers of hair-like bristles made of keratin—much like human fingernails—on the inside of their mouths. One whale alone will plow about 1-acre of sea floor between May and October. Nearly hunted to extinction in the 1850s and early 1900s, gray whales were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1969. They have since been removed after recovering to numbers in excess of 21,000. However, scientists continue to monitor the abundance of this population for two related reasons: They are important
“ecosystem engineers” because they redistribute large amounts of material when plowing up the seafloor, making food available for other marine species, and their annual migration makes them very vulnerable to environmental conditions. For instance, if Arctic sea ice breaks up very late in the spring, the feeding season is shortened and females can not store the fat necessary to maintain a pregnancy. As a result, birthing rates decline and low birth weight calves often don’t survive the northbound migration. We saw this pattern in 1999-2001 (data provided by Wayne Perryman of the National Marine Fisheries Service). Because gray whales are such an important part of their ecosystem, even a short-term variation in feeding patterns can have longterm impacts on the population and its environment. How do scientists track individual whales for study? One method we use to study these whales is to track individuals during their migration using photo-identification techniques. Rather than “tagging” a few animals with trackers, scientists photograph as many gray whales as they can. Then we use the photos to take measurements of these whales’ “knuckles,” the ridges on their back where you might expect a dorsal fin to be. We can use the relative distance between these ridges to assign a “dorsal ratio” as an identification number for animals we photograph. Data can then be used to determine re-sighting rates for whales migrating through Dana Point. This helps us understand whether the same whale follows the same route during each leg of the migration and/or year after year. We can also estimate the cumulative number of gray whales that migrate off of Dana Point. This information is important in helping scientists determine the role that our local waters play in the gray whale’s great migration. Kayla Causey received her Ph.D. from Florida Atlantic University in 2010. Currently, she is the scientific advisor for the Gulf of Catalina Gray Whale Preservation and Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that educates children about the Gray Whale while engaging them in research. Causey is also director and founder of the Coastal Dolphins of Orange County (CDOC) Project and a lecturer at CSU Fullerton. On the weekends, you will find her working as a naturalist on whale watching adventures. DP
PARK AT THE PARK, WALK WITH THE WHALES Doheny State Beach offers ample $8 all-day parking, whale sightings guaranteed When it comes to great adventures, sometimes getting there is a big part of the fun. And this year’s Festival of Whales is no exception. Doheny State Beach has not only taken some of the stress out of parking but also added a fun way to begin your festival adventure—the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association Whale Walk, where whale sightings are guaranteed. DSBIA volunteers began to return life-sized paintings of whales to the walkways along Doheny Beach in January. They started with three—a California gray whale, an orca and a humpback—and will be adding more species of whales and dolphins in the coming months. The Whale Walk was a longstanding tradition at the park, absent for the past six years since being paved over during walkway maintenance. Now children once again will be delighted by seeing how they “measure up” to the behemoth marine mammals and 10
giving their parents a nice photo op upon arrival to the festival. The Doheny parking lot—enter at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern—is offering all-day parking for only $8. Most Harbor lots are four-hour maximum and are monitored by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Not only is this a whale of a deal, it’s also a great way to avoid the stress of having to continually watch the clock while discovering everything the festival has to offer. And free shuttle pick-ups to and from events and attractions are scheduled at 15-minute intervals. So start your visit off right—park at the park, walk with the whales, ride the free shuttle and enjoy a worry-free day at the festival. For more information about the Whale Walk and the DSBIA—including how to become a volunteer—visit www. dohenystatebeach.org. DP —Andrea Swayne
Volunteer K.C. Kinnings puts the finishing touches on the new Whale Walk’s orca. Photo courtesy of Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association
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WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURES Dana Wharf Whale Watching
The originator of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf, has hosted excursions at sea since 1971. Take an adventure cruise to see the California gray whales in their natural environment. Trips offer fun for all ages and sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Boats depart every hour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during festival weekends. Each trip runs for approximately two hours. Back by popular demand, the Whale of a Deal returns with $15 seats on every 8 a.m. weekend departure. For other departure times, adults are $45, seniors and military $35, children 3-12 years $25 and free under 2. Two-hour whale watching excursions are available following the Marine Mammal Lectures both weekends at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. A variety of guest marine biologists will present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals aboard their 63-foot, state-of-the-art OCean Adventures catamaran, featuring an incredibly spacious viewing deck and full-service deli-style gallery. Prior to the 11:30 a.m. departure, there will be a special lecture session from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s will be included with all 11:30 a.m. reservations. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for children 3-12 years and free for children under 2. (No senior rate) For reservations call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or visit www.danawharf.com. Use promo code FOW13 to save $8 per adult fare, not valid on 8 a.m. special.
Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari
The most unique whale watch in the world lets visitors get eye-to-eye with wild dolphins and whales—without getting wet—in two exclusive underwater viewing pods on board a high-speed, high-tech, sailing catamaran. The boat carries only 49 passengers so trips are never crowded. See and hear below the surface with an underwater camera and hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often narrated by Capt. Dave Anderson himself, whose award winning film on wild dolphins and whales has drawn people from all over the world to Dana Point. The fronts of the boats are low to the water to get you up close and personal with the animals. And the onboard whale and dolphin micro-museum is fun and educational. Trips are broadcast live on www.whalewatchingtv. com, so you can wave to family and friends watching online from home. And one of the best features, Mrs. Captain Dave’s triple fudge brownies are served complimentary on every safari. Mention this ad for a 10 percent discount. Good during Festival of Whales only. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.
Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises and Onboard Lab
More than just a whale watch, this cruise introduces participants to whales and many other marine animals us-
ing state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers and video microscopes. Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4-12 years old. Nonmember is $35 for adults and $22 for children 4-12. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase. For more information, call 949.496.2274 or go to www.ocean-institute.org.
Headlands Conservation Park
Interested in catching a glimpse of these majestic leviathans from land? Be sure to visit the Headlands Conservation Park and Interpretive Center. Situated high atop the 200-foot cliffs on the headlands, the park trails and scenic overlooks offer a great vantage point for viewing passing whales. The three-mile trail system is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset and the Interpretive Center hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Nature Interpretive Center is located adjacent to the Headlands Conservation Park, at the end of Green Lantern. Limited free parking available. From Dana Point Harbor visitors may take a free shuttle to the Ocean Institute and then proceed up Cove Road to the park. It’s a good work out for those looking for a little adventure and some spectacular views. For more information, log on to www.danapoint.org and click on the “visitors” button then on “nature interpretive center.” DP
This photo shows a gray whale “spy hopping’ to have a look at whale watchers aboard the Dana Wharf Vessel Dana Pride. Photo by Christina de la Fuente for www.danawharf.com
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