Next to Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) we also saw Striped (Stenella coeruleoalba) and Rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) today. With summer progressing, we have been having increasing sightings of the Rough-toothed dolphins that we are excited to have around for the season. While our main objective is observing whales and dolphins, we were also very interested in the hammerhead shark we came across near Madalena do Mar.
The very shy Striped dolphins also allowed for a stunning sighting today with one animal bow-riding briefly. During encounters, our captains are always very careful to navigate the boat around the animals according to regulations and recommendations in place to minimise the disturbance on the animals, constantly monitoring their behaviour and reaction. In situations like today, when we can closely encounter an evasive species like the Striped dolphin, we really see the care and experience our captains put into respecting the animals in their own home.
By Hannah Carstens
Sightings of the Day
Ribeira Brava
09:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins
13:00 Rough-toothed dolphins
Stenella
09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Striped dolphins, Hammerhead shark
13:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Rough-toothed dolphins
16:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins