ART FROM THE START Dana Hills High School students get glimpse into professional art careers, create festival art High school is a time for exploring college options, developing new interests and beginning to formulate a plan for the future. For art students at Dana Hills High School, the Festival of Whales provides just such an opportunity. It’s an opportunity program organizers hope could give start to budding art careers. Now, in its third year, a joint program between Festival of Whales organizers and DHHS
Sarah Holen
Sarah Holen designed the official logo for this year’s Festival of Whales. Photo by Andrea Papagianis
gives local teens a chance to design the official logo and to create and display their work among professional artists at the Art in the Park exhibition and sale, held both festival weekends. The program includes an inspirational field trip whale watching aboard a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel and exploring the Ocean Institute’s brig Pilgrim. Ninety students take photos, sketch and film the experience to serve as inspiration for work they will display at Art in the Park, and for the 2015 logo design contest.
Raechel Grable
Madeline McGrath
ALL ABOARD Visit the festival for less with Metrolink and OCTA
Courtesy photo
The Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink will once again offer an environmental- and budget-friendly route to and from the Dana Point Festival of Whales. Just $10 buys a Metrolink weekend pass, valid for system-wide travel all day Saturday and Sunday. Weekend passes are available for purchase at all Metrolink station ticket machines. To get to the Festival of Whales from the San Juan Capistrano train station, take OCTA Bus Route 91 south to Dana Point. Bus transfers are
free with your Metrolink ticket. Bicyclists, take your wheels with you onboard one of Metrolink’s specially marked “bicycle cars.” Then from the San Juan station, follow the San Juan Creek bike trail for three miles to Dana Point. For full bus and train schedules, log on to www.octa.net/whales2014. OCTA and Metrolink can also help you get great deals at local businesses when you mention these offers and present your Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lanes
Festival organizer Penny Elia said, as the program has grown and evolved, students are being provided a new level of guidance as teachers use a curriculum that more closely mimics real-world commissions. The quality of the student work shows an increasing professionalism and students, including this year’s logo design winner Sarah Holen, say the experience has piqued an interest in the possibility of pursuing art-related careers. Holen, a 2013 Dana Hills graduate, is now attending Saddleback College where she plans to finish two years before transferring to a four-year university. Her career interests include business marketing, the automotive industry and art. “I was really excited to have my art work join that of famous artists, like John Van Hamersveld and Wyland, who have done logos in the past,” Holen said. “Designing a Festival of Whales logo is like being a part of Dana Point’s history.” The four runners-up are Raechel Grable, Madeline McGrath, Sophie Gutteridge and Renee Richardson. Be sure to stop by Art in the Park to check out the work of our talented local youth. —Andrea Swayne
Sophia Gutteridge
Renee Richardson
transponder. WHALE WATCHING: Receive a 50 percent discount at Dana Wharf Whale Watching or the Ocean Institute. For more information and to make reservations call Dana Wharf at 949.496.5794 and the Ocean Institute at 949.496.2274. HOTEL: The Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive at the Dana Point Harbor, is offering a special $79 rate, single or double occupancy. For reservations, call 949.496.1203. COFFEE: Buy one premium coffee beverage at The Coffee Importers and get a second one free. Coffee Importers is located at 34531 Golden Lantern Street, in Mariner’s Village at the Harbor. Offer expires March 31. APPETIZER: Receive one free appetizer (chef’s choice) at Wind & Sea Restaurant. One per table, with purchase of entrée in the dining room. Offer valid March 1-9. Wind & Sea is located at 34699 Golden Lantern in the Harbor. For reservations, call 949.496.6500.
Welcome to the 43rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales By Lisa Bartlett, Mayor of Dana Point It is that magical time of year again when the majestic gray whales migrate through the waters off the Dana Point coastline, making the city a premier location for up close viewing. To celebrate this spectacular yearly occurrence, we are honored to host the 43rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales. We begin with the Festival of Whales Parade, through downtown on Pacific Coast Highway, March 1 at 10 a.m. and flow into two weekends, jam packed, with activities and events for the whole family. I am proud to announce this year’s Parade Grand Marshal is Jay “Sparky” Longley, owner of Rainbow Sandals and the Community Grand Marshal is 2014 Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and longtime parade announcer Gene Burrus. Attractions include music, art, classic cars and boats, stand-up paddling, foot races, marine exhibitions, environmental education and more. Many of the activities and events are free of charge. Whale excursions are also available, and I encourage you to look into the many opportunities for first hand viewing on the ocean. You just cannot imagine how large and spectacular the gray whales are until they come up next to your ocean vessel, and you are close enough to see how gracefully they navigate through the water. The festival includes venues throughout the city, providing many opportunities to explore Dana Point. The Harbor, Town Center Lantern District, Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center high on the Headlands overlooking the Harbor, Lantern Bay Park, Doheny State Beach and the Ocean Institute are but a few places we hope you will visit. Don’t miss the Dana Point Symphony’s third season kick-off performances March 7 and 8 aboard the brig Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute. Detailed information on events and activities, an area map, schedule and more can be found on the pages of this program or online at www.festivalofwhales.com. festivalofwhales.com | Page 3
EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ARTS AND CULTURE Art in the Park March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.4 p.m. Local artists along with students from Dana Hills High School display a variety of artwork on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. 12 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale March 1, 2, 8, 9; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Art show and sale on the Harbor boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village. Works by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 7 Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast March 7, 8, 9; March 7, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; March 8, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and March 9, 9 a.m.-noon. The Dana Point Historical Society hosts the fourth annual volunteer public reading of Richard Henry Dana Jr.’s Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Free. 949.899.0907. 5 Walking Tour of Town Center March 1, 2, 8, 9; 2 p.m. Meet a guide from the Historical Society at 34091 Pacific Coast Highway—at Blue Lantern and PCH—for this historic Town Center tour of buildings, homes and landmarks circa 1924 to 1939. Free. 9 Polynesian Connection March 1; 10 a.m.4 p.m. The Hula Connection (Leinani Hula Hui’ana) presents a day of Polynesian culture with music, dance, food and hands-on educational experiences for all ages at Baby Beach. Activities include lei-making, fire knife and hula/ Tahitian dancing, poi-ball twirling, air-brush tattoos, face painting, coconut husking, outrigger canoe demonstrations and more. 15
a state-of-the-art whale research, rescue and whale watching vessel named Lily. The boat was named after a gray whale, wrapped in gill net, that made national headlines when Capt. Dave and rescue team members disentangled her. His rescue work also landed him a television appearance on the “Ellen Degeneres Show.” Attendees will be invited to have some hands-on fun with research and rescue equipment. Signed copies of Capt. Dave’s book, Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey, will be available for purchase. 4 Captain Dave’s Carnival March 8; Noon2 p.m. Drop by Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for free activities and prizes. Kids of all ages will have fun with games, crafts, a bounce house and more. Face painting and animal balloons will be available for a small fee. It’s fun for the whole “pod.” 4 Movie Viewing March 1, 2, 8, 9; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit the Dolphin Deck for a free viewing of Capt. Dave Anderson’s award-winning documentary Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. In 1995 Capt. Dave mounted an underwater camera and hydrophone on the bow of his boat and began taking his cameras on every trip. It took five years to create the documentary, an experience Capt. Dave says that has forever changed his life. Screenings held every hour. 4
CLASSIC CARS & VINTAGE BOATS So Cal Woodies March 1, 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Woodie cars from the Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the Harbor walkway. 11
CAPTAIN DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary For information about Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 4
Antique & Classic Boat Society March 1, 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Classic vessels from the Southern California Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society will be displayed in the water and on land along the Harbor walkway. 11
Lily, a Gray Whale Tribute March 1; 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Capt. Dave presents a free tour, whale rescue and research lecture and book signing aboard his new 62-foot catamaran,
Porsche 356 Club March 8; 10 a.m.4 p.m. The Southern California chapter of the 356 Club displays classic Porsche models at Waterfall Park on Dana Point Harbor Drive. 14
Whale of a Classic Car Display March 8, 9; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club will display a variety of classics and hot rods, along the Harbor walkway. 11
DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary For information about Dana Wharf Whale Watching, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip March 1, 2, 8, 9; clinic noon12:30 p.m., fishing trip 12:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Free dockside fishing clinic followed by a fishing trip where kids 12 and under fish for free. Adults are $39, plus license and equipment. 3 Kids Adventure Expo March 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Inagural event features hands-on experiences promoting a variety of ocean activities: boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving and more. Held at the Dick Simon Yachts parking lot near Dana Wharf. Free. Games and rides offered for a nominal fee. 9 Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Enjoy a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s while marine biologists present recent findings on whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. March 1: Dean Gomersall, California Sea Lions; March 2: Doug Thompson, Gray Whales; March 8: Alisa Schulman-Janiger, Gray Whale Census and Killer Whales; March 9: Todd Mansur, Gray Whale Migration and Blue Whales. Then climb aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran for a 2.5-hour whale watching trip at either 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Tickets are $55 for adults, $35 for seniors and children 3–12, and children 2 and under are free. Lecture only, $5. 13 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Learn from renowned environmental artist Wyland via a dockside video presentation and art lesson aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran. Children can enter their art in a contest to win great prizes. $5 per child. Proceeds benefit the Wyland Foundation. 3
DIAMOND DIG Diamond Dig March 2; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dig for buried treasure at the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club Diamond Dig 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. 949.842.0594, www.monarchbeachrotary.com. 15
DOHENY STATE BEACH Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum March 9; 11a.m.-3p.m. A variety of genuine marine mammal artifacts will be on display at Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center, near the park entrance, for visitors to actively learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Please alert park staff upon arrival so they can direct you to free, onehour parking. Free. Rain cancels. 949.496.2704, www.dohenystatebeach.org. 16 Whale of a Beach Cleanup March 8; 9 a.m.-noon. Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Park Interpreter Vicki at Lifeguard Headquarters to learn about how you can help maintain precious coastal resources. Free. 16
FOOD Polynesian Connection Luau March 1; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Experience the unforgettable sights, smells, sounds and tastes of beautiful Polynesia with an authentic luau at the OC Sailing & Events Center. Tickets are $50. 949.973.7281, www.hulaconnection.com. 8 Whale of a BBQ March 2; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Delicious barbecue specialties at affordable prices will be served up adjacent to Baby Beach during Ocean Awareness Day. 15 Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook Off March 8; 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 $10 to taste every entry. www.fishforlife.org. 11 (Cont. on page 6)
#=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com. Page 4 | festivalofwhales.com
(Cont. from page 4) Whale of a Concert BBQ March 9; Noon5 p.m. Concessions for scrumptious barbecue specialties will be available at the OC Sailing & Event Center adjacent to Baby Beach. A Spirits Garden will be available for those over 21 with a valid ID. 15 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast & Raffle March 2; 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center’s Dana Cove Room. Adults $6, children under 12 are $3. Show your Grunion Run racing bib for $1 off. 949.275.3142. 8
GRUNION RUN 6th Annual Grunion Run March 2; Registration, 6:30 a.m.; 10K, 7:45 a.m.; 5K, 8 a.m.; Kids’ 1K, 9 a.m.; Awards, 9:15 a.m. The sixth annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run 10K, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ 1K Run will take place in Doheny State Beach. This is a fast and flat scenic run/walk. Entry fees are $45 for the 10K, $40 for the 5K and $20 for the 1K. www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. 16
MERCHANDISE Festival Logo Merchandise T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both festival weekends. Merchandise is also available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com.
MICKEY MUÑOZ MONGOOSE CUP STAND-UP PADDLE Mongoose Cup SUP March 8; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Stand-up paddle with famous surfing icon and legend Mickey Munoz and friends in the fifth annual Mongoose Cup at Dana Cove Park and Baby Beach. Enjoy a great day of fun, SUP clinics and camaraderie. Activities include a Wounded Warrior Project Paddle, Waterman Expo & Paddling Skills Clinics, Sport of Kings Races, Luck of the Draw relays and a delicious barbecue too. Clinics will cover paddling and training techniques, SUP racing skills, water safety, fitness, adventure paddling, SUP yoga and more. 949.276.4431, www.festivalofwhales.com. 15
MOVIE IN THE PARK Finding Nemo March 1; Dusk/6:30 p.m. Finding Nemo will be presented free of charge by
the city of Dana Point’s Community Services and Parks Department at Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Road. Free popcorn, hot beverages and snacks will be available. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinner to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org. 18
MUSIC Symphony Spectactular March 7, 8; March 7, 7 p.m.; March 8, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony presents Symphony Spectacular aboard the brig Pilgrim, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive at the Ocean Institute. The show is an ocean-themed extravaganza with the symphony, singers, dancers and high-flying aerialist dancers from the Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles. Tickets are $25 for adults and children 15 and over. Children under 15 free at Saturday’s matinee. 301.832.0388, www.danapointsymphony.com. 17 Harbor Music Series March 1, 2, 8, 9; Noon3 p.m. Live music performances in a variety of styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Dana Wharf courtyard, the grassy area near Harpoon Henry’s and Mariner’s Alley. Free. 10
OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary. For information about Ocean Institute whale watching, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 6 World of Whales March 1, 2, 8, 9; March 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; March 2, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and March 8-9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and fascinating world of whales and 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 and create fun whale-themed crafts. Additional activities in the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center include animal feedings, ROV driving and tide pool touch tanks. Admission price is $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children 3-12, children 2 and under are free. Members are free. 6
Ocean Institute Jazz Festival Feb. 28, March 1, 2 Opening night, Feb. 28 kicks off with a wine and appetizer reception and concert. March 1 is the gala evening with a cocktail reception, silent auction, gourmet dinner prepared by chefs from local resorts and a jazz performance. A relaxed lunch and encore performance will be held March 2. All events benefit educational programs at the Ocean Institute. 949.496.2274 ext. 337, www.oijazzfestival.com. 6
Whale’s Tale Tall Ship Sailing Adventure March 1, 8; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of the magnificent gray whale. Join the Ocean Institute for an exciting tall ship 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 are $36 for adults and $21 for children. Minimum age to participate is 4. 6
Whale of a Concert and BBQ March 9; noon1 p.m., 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m. Bands perform at Baby Beach atop a floating stage. Free. Bring beach chairs, towels and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment. Barbecue specialties will be available for purchase, along with a Spirits Garden for those over 21 with a valid ID. 15
Seashore Interpretive Family Hike March 1, 2, 8, 9; 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. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute. Free with paid admission. 6
OCEAN AWARENESS DAY
PARADE
Ocean Awareness March 2; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Dana Point Harbor Association presents interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues. The event is free and located near Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Place. 15
Festival of Whales Kickoff Parade March 1; 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. 1
RUBBER DUCKY DERBY Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby March 2; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by the Dana Point Women’s Club, this fun spin on a traditional rubber ducky race is held at Baby Beach. Duckies can be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.5706 or the day of the event at the DPWC booth at Baby Beach. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers. Duckies are $6 each or two for $10; need not be present to win. www.danapointwomensclub.org. 15
SAND SCULPTING Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition March 2; 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. Compete in 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. 15
SAILING AND PADDLING 949.492.3035, www.westwindsailing.com Sailing Rides March 1, 2, 8, 9; 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. 8 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 1, 2, 8, 9; 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 and lifejackets will be provided. 8
STREET FAIR La Plaza Street Fair March 1; 10 a.m.2 p.m. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce invites you to the annual Street Fair Festival for an unforgettable day of food, games, music and entertainment for the whole family. The carnival-style fair, with vendor booths and a farmers market, begins immediately following the Festival of Whales Parade at La Plaza Park. 949.496.1555. 2
#=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com. Page 6 | festivalofwhales.com
Parking Shuttle Stop Event Whale Watching Excursions/Viewing Festival Merchandise Drinking Fountain Shuttle Route Parade Route Shuttle Route First Saturday
GETTING AROUND
HELP US KEEP THE FESTIVAL OF WHALES CLEAN AND GREEN
WATER TAXI NEW THIS YEAR Daily service will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the two festival weekends. Service runs between Dana Wharf and the Ocean Institute for $3 round-trip per person. Tickets may be purchased at Dana Wharf Whale Watching or at the Ocean Institute. Park and then ride this fun new water taxi, taking in all the great sites from the water. Your captain will share interesting facts and features about the Dana Point area and its fascinating history. Ride all day for only $5 per person. PARKING AND SHUTTLE SERVICE FREE shuttle service will be available every day of the festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with extended service hours the morning of the parade (March 1) and the afternoon of the Whale of a Concert (March 9). Parking in the Harbor is free, but limited to four hours and is strictly enforced. Parking at Doheny State Beach is $8 for the entire day.
FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE
PARADE DAY SHUTTLE (MARCH 1) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to and at the conclusion of the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor or Doheny State Beach and then 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.
WHALE OF A CONCERT SHUTTLE (MARCH 9) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m.
STREET FAIR SHUTTLE (MARCH 1) FREE shuttle service will be available from all Harbor locations to the Street Fair from noon to 3 p.m. Page 8 | festivalofwhales.com
T-shirts (long and short sleeve) and hooded sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both weekends of the festival.
WALKING DIRECTIONS FROM OCTA BUS STOP For those utilizing the OCTA bus stops on Pacific Coast Highway, the festival can be reached by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance or you can enter Doheny State Beach (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the green barrier fence, then proceed toward the beach to the marked Festival of Whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations.
The Dana Point Festival of Whales is an ocean-friendly event with many of our booths, displays and exhibits being very close to water’s edge. We ask that all our sponsors and exhibitors keep this ocean location top-of-mind and refrain from using balloons, stickers, tattoos, flyers, single-serving water bottles or other materials that might find their way to the receiving waters of the Pacific Ocean. We also ask all of our guests to keep these practices in mind as they spend a glorious day or weekend taking in the beauty of this special location. Drinking fountains are plentiful for the refilling of water bottles that can be purchased at multiple event locations. Or bring your own and refill throughout the day. See the event map above for water fountain locations. Please help us keep the Festival of Whales clean and green for generations to come. Thank you. —Dana Point Festival of Whales
EVENT SCHEDULE WEEKEND 1 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Ocean Institute
SATURDAY, MARCH 1 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 1 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m.-Noon. Pacific Coast Highway 2 Street Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. La Plaza Park 11 So Cal Woodies and Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 15 Polynesian Connection 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach and Baby Beach Park 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center
16 6th Annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run 10K, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ 1K Run 6:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Doheny State Beach 8 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast and Raffle with Entertainment 8 a.m.-11 a.m. OC Sailing & Event Center 15 Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Baby Beach 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show and Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor Walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 11 So Cal Woodies and Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 9 Kids Adventure Expo 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dick Simon Yachts parking lot
13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley
3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 15 Ocean Awareness Day 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach Park
3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip Noon-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Docks
15 Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Baby Beach
6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute
15 Diamond Dig 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Baby Beach
6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute 4 Lily: a Gray Whale Tribute 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari
15 Whale of a BBQ 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach Park 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley
9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH
9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH
8 Polynesian Luau 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. OC Sailing & Event Center
6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute
6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 18 Movie in the Park: Finding Nemo Dusk. Lantern Bay Park
6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Ocean Institute
WEEKEND 2 FRIDAY, MARCH 7 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 17 Dana Point Symphony’s Symphony Spectacular 7 p.m. Public pier adjacent to the Ocean Institute
SATURDAY, MARCH 8 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 15 5th Annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup & BBQ 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Baby Beach 16 Whale of a Beach Cleanup 9 a.m.-noon. Doheny State Beach 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor Walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 11 3rd Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Harbor walkway beginning at Island Way 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 14 Porsche 356 Club Southern California 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Waterfall Park on Dana Point Harbor Drive 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf dock 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 4 Movie Viewing: Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley
4 Captain Dave’s Carnival Noon-2 p.m. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 4 Lily: A Gray Whale Tribute 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tall Ship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH 17 Dana Point Symphony Presents: Symphony Spectacular 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Public pier adjacent to the Ocean Institute 6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute
SUNDAY, MARCH 9 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 8 a.m.noon. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 16 Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center 15 Whale of a Concert on the Water, BBQ and Spirits Garden Noon-5 p.m. Baby Beach 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley 9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH
3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip Noon-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf docks
6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute #=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com. festivalofwhales.com | Page 9
GET TO KNOW THE GREAT MIGRATORS Gray whales travel past the Dana Point coast each year as part of their annual 10,000-mile migration
By Sean Vogt, Natural Resources Protection Officer, City of Dana Point Gray whales are known as the great migrators. The grays seen during winter off the coast of Dana Point have already traveled nearly 5,000 miles. In the longest migration of any mammal, gray whales travel over 10,000 miles roundtrip from Arctic feeding waters to calving waters in Baja California, Mexico. Many people ask why this species of whale travels so far each year. The answer is simple: female gray whales are fantastic mothers. Gray whale calves have the best chance of survival if they are born in the sheltered lagoons of Baja. Entering the world in these warmer, more saline waters means calves can stay warm and easily float to the surface to breathe without wasting energy, thus expending more energy building up their blubber for the trip back to the Arctic. In addition, their main predators, orcas (also known as killer whales), are less able to gang up and kill calves while within these shallow lagoons. If orcas venture too close, adult gray whales can come together and use violent tail slaps to fend them off. Generally, pregnant gray whales start arriving in Baja by late December, with most of them giving birth in January and February. Since gestation is approximately 12 to 13 months for this mammal, this is also the time that adult, non-pregnant females begin estrus and breeding. While it is possible for females to give birth each year, they typically give birth and mate in alternate years. Gray whale breeding behavior is complex, but quite the party, with groups mating during the southward migration and in the Baja lagoons from late November through early February. Calves are approximately 14 feet in length and weigh a whopping 1,500 pounds at birth. They spend approximately two months nursing. The calves drink up to 50 gallons of milk, which is 53 percent fat, each day, before their mothers leave the protection of the lagoons and escort them to the Bering and Chukchi Seas off the Alaskan coast. During the northward migration, calves continue to nurse, relying on their protective and loving mothers to fend off predators and deliver them safely to their Arctic feeding grounds by June or July. Mothers slowly wean their young off milk while teaching them how to feed on bottomdwelling invertebrates—mostly shrimp-like crustaceans. Gray whales spend the summer months in the Arctic building up fat reserves by feeding on up to 1 ton of little critters per day. When fully grown, grays can weigh up to 40 tons and reach lengths of 45 feet. Instead of Page 10 | festivalofwhales.com
A gray whale raises its tail fluke while swimming off the coast of Dana Point. Photo by Debra Kettler
teeth, a gray whale’s upper jaw holds numerous overlapping plates of long, stiff hair-like structures called baleen. To feed, the whale sucks in water and sediment from the ocean floor, closes its mouth and forces the water and mud through its baleen, trapping millions of tiny invertebrates. It then uses its 1-ton tongue to break up and swallow its catch. When days begin to shorten in October, Arctic waters begin to cool and the ice pack increases. This signals the start of yet another southward migration and the natural cycle repeats itself. Many press releases this winter have touted a dramatic increase in near-shore gray whale sightings this migration season. This December and January, monitors on the Palos Verdes peninsula counted the third-highest number on record since the 1980s. However, large-scale trends and anecdotal evidence actually indicate a decrease in near-shore sightings in southern California since the early 1970s. This is despite a consistent increase in the number of gray whales. The trending movement away from near-shore routes may be a result of natural factors, but more likely is due to increased noise pollution from sonar and boat engines, harassment by recreational and commercial vessels and ship strikes near the coast in shallow-water fishing spots and shipping lanes. Because gray whales are intelligent animals with average life spans similar to humans (up to
Sean Vogt, Natural Resources Protection Officer for the city of Dana Point. Photo by Andrea Swayne
80 years), it seems reasonable to hypothesize these creatures communicate with each other and avoid areas where they were previously harassed. Currently, only a fraction of migrating grays actually follow the Southern California shore. Most are too far off shore to see from the mainland—using the Channel Islands as navigational markers—so it would be a shame to force these special few away. The federal government passed the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, or MMPA, to combat the issues that
could cause many of the approximately 20,000 remaining gray whales to steer clear of a nearshore route. Amended in 2012, the MMPA is the most recent national protective legislation in response to a long history of whaling. The MMPA is a piece of comprehensive legislation designed to protect all marine mammals in the United States, including otters, manatees, seals, sea lions, dolphins and whales. The MMPA states that “the act of hunting, killing, capture, and/or harassment of any marine mammal; or, the attempt at such” is illegal. Gray whales in the Pacific Ocean are still hunted by humans—mostly legal subsistence hunting by indigenous populations in Russia and the U.S.—and were nearly hunted to extinction by the early 1900s. European and U.S. whalers killed at least 10,000 gray whales between 1840 and 1900 along the west coast of North America. Thankfully, the International Whaling Commission made it an international crime to hunt gray whales (as well as most other whale species) in the 1940s, which is likely the only reason grays still exist on our coast. Atlantic gray whales were not as lucky, as they were likely hunted to extinction by European whalers prior to the end of the 18th century. In order to be in compliance with the MMPA, the average person simply needs to learn about how these majestic creatures interact with the environment and avoid disrupting their behaviors. For example, boats should travel at a safe speed and never cut in front of a marine mammal’s path of travel or encircle it. The MMPA states that all vessels must observe from a safe distance of at least 300 feet. Whales can be curious and often approach boats. Viewing them in this manner is not illegal, as it is beyond the boater’s control. In this case, place the boat in neutral and enjoy the whale until it is ready to move on. Perhaps the whales will put on a show and leap out of the water, creating an unforgettable moment. For those that do not do well on boats, the conservation areas atop the Dana Point Headlands offer some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and its inhabitants in Orange County. Sean Vogt has a Master of Science degree from CSU, Fullerton and more than 10 years of experience studying marine biology. As the Natural Resources Protection Officer for the city of Dana Point, Vogt manages the Nature Interpretive Center at the Dana Point Headlands, open-space parks adjacent to the Center for Natural Lands Management Preserve and the Marine Protected Area along the city coastline. With the help of nearly 100 volunteers, Vogt launched citizen-science wildlife monitoring programs late last year, including surveying marine mammals visible from the Headlands.
WHALE WATCHING EXCURSIONS See why Dana Point is the ‘Whale Capital of the West’ Most boat excursions are 2-3 hours long. Reservations are recommended.
Dana Wharf Whale Watching Expert captains and certified naturalists narrate each excursion, detailing the whales’ movements through their natural migration path. As the originator of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf remains family owned and operated and is exclusively endorsed by worldrenowned marine life artist Wyland. Marine Mammal “rain checks” ensure you see a good show of whales or dolphins, or your next trip is free. Excursions depart every hour, on the hour, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during festival weekends. Trips run approximately two hours. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and military, children 3-12 years $25 and children under 2 are free. Want a whale of a deal? All 8 a.m. trips are
just $15 per person. Marine mammal lecture and whale watching trip combos are offered both weekends for a oneon-one educational experience with guest marine biologists. Tickets are $55 for adults, $35 for seniors and children 3-12, and children under 2 are free. Tickets include the lecture and continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a 2.5-hour whale watching trip aboard the luxurious 63-foot, state-of-the-art, OCean Adventures catamaran at 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. A specially priced sunset trip with cocktails, wine and beer, runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $25. For reservations call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or log on to www.danawharf.com.
Courtesy of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching
Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari The most unique whale watching trips in the world puts visitors eye-to-eye with dolphins and whales via underwater viewing pods. It feels like swimming with wild dolphins and whales but without getting wet. Capt. Dave’s high-speed, high-tech catamaran Lily comfortably carries only 49 passengers and a smaller, more intimate catamaran carries 20 passengers, so trips are never crowded. Listen in on the sounds of marine mammals below the surface with a research hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often led 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.
Courtesy of Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
Ocean Institute Gray Whale Adventure Cruise More than just a whale watch, the Ocean Institute’s Gray Whale Adventure Cruises introduce participants to whales and many other marine animals using state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers, touch tanks, viewing aquariums and video microscopes. Two viewing levels and a bowsprit stretching out over the water provide visitors with a breathtaking view of dolphins, whales, sea lions and other ocean life. Learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns from the Institute’s experienced and knowledgeable captains and educators. Indulge your inner scientist with this unique opportunity to experience one of the greatest mammal migrations on Earth, aboard the Ocean Institute’s 65-foot research vessel R/V Sea Explorer. As Page 12 | festivalofwhales.com
an educational platform the vessel is ideal. This floating lab plays an important part in the nationally recognized, nonprofit educational facility’s educational programming. Throughout the year, research conducted aboard the vessel is integrated into the Ocean Institute’s curriculum offered to over 15,000 students annually. The 2.5-hour cruises are offered at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4 to 12 years old. Children must be at least 4 years old to attend. Non-member pricing is $35 for adults and $22 for children. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase. For more information and reservations, call 949.496.2274 or log on to www.ocean-institute.org.
Courtesy of The Ocean Institute
The fronts of Capt. Dave’s catamarans are low to the water offering an up close view of sea animals. An onboard whale and dolphin micro-museum adds an extra fun and educational opportunity to learn more about marine mammals. Trips are broadcast live on www. whalewatchingtv.com so you can wave to family and friends tuned in online at home. And one of the best perks of the trip is Mrs. Captain Dave’s delicious triple fudge brownies, served as a special treat on the ride back. Mention this article for 10 percent discount. Special offer is good during the Festival of Whales only. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.
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