03.06.2023 – Atlantic ocean newbie

The sea first looked empty this morning. But one characteristic of the sea is that everything can change quickly. One moment there seems to be no marine mammals, the next it’s teeming with dolphins. It was the same today. We became aware of the numerous jumps of the widely scattered group. Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) honored us with their visit. They also had a newbie in her midst. A small calf, with birthmarks were still clearly visible, swam close to mum’s side and was even allowed to make a small excursion into our bow wave. What a special treat to experience such trust in us. A real gift! Thanks! A healthy Rough-toothed mother has a calf about every 3-4 years. The gestation period is 12 months.

On the midday tour there were beautiful scenes with the Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis). The sea was partly as smooth as a blue silk sheet. The Common dolphins enjoyed their time in the Ribeira Brava’s bow wave. Our guests enjoyed the elegant gliding of the animals. It was like being in a blue dream. Beautiful and very touching.

On our evening tour, we first encountered a small school of Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) that were at rest. Then we had the nimble, lively Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis), which also belong to the interactive dolphin species. Next we went to a Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus). Experiencing this large toothed whale can be astounding. Such a great creature, a gentle giant who dives to the deepest depths to get his prey.

We also had another newbie in the Atlantic on the evening tour. Camila, our summer guide had her first tour and what a wonderful start she had in our blue office. Welcome Camila! We wish you many exciting sightings, nice guests and a great time off Madeira’s coast.

There were three tours with the Ribeira Brava today. Each carried a beauty with them in their own special way. How different they were and yet what was the connecting element, the amazement for the creations of our seas, the touching of the trust shown by the many close encounters. It is important to get involved with what is to come. Actually like in real life 😉

by Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:30 Rough-toothed dolphins

13:30 Common dolphins

17:00 Bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dophins, Sperm whales