08.05.2024 – Aquatic Delight

Today’s journey into the heart of the Atlantic Ocean unfolded like a captivating saga, filled with thrilling encounters with some of the ocean’s most majestic inhabitants. Among the stars of our expedition were the spirited Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), the charismatic Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), the enigmatic Short-finned pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus), and the playful Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis).

Our adventure commenced with the energetic leaps and spins of the Common dolphins, their sleek bodies slicing through the waves with effortless grace. As if choreographed by nature herself, they greeted us with acrobatic displays that left us spellbound and exhilarated.

But the excitement didn’t end there. Soon, the Bottlenose dolphins made their grand entrance, their iconic smiles and playful antics captivating our hearts. With a grace that belied their size, they danced around our vessel, their intelligence shining through their expressive eyes.

As we ventured deeper into the ocean’s embrace, we were greeted by the sight of Short-finned pilot whales gliding through the azure depths. These magnificent creatures, with their distinctive bulbous heads and powerful bodies, exuded an aura of mystery and strength. It was a humbling experience to witness them in their natural habitat, a reminder of the ocean’s vast and untamed beauty.

But the real show-stoppers of the day were the Atlantic spotted dolphins, whose playful energy and boundless curiosity lit up the sea around us. With their distinctive spots and joyful demeanor, they seemed to embody the spirit of the ocean itself, inviting us to join them in their aquatic playground.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the water, we reluctantly bid farewell to our marine companions and turned our bow towards home. But as we sailed into the twilight, our hearts were full of gratitude for the privilege of witnessing such wonders—a day filled with memories that would stay with us forever, etched into our minds like the indelible strokes of a masterpiece painted by nature herself.

By Camila Dávila

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

13:30 Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales

Stenella

09:30 Common dolphins,  Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Short-finned pilot whales