The misty, hot air today didn’t make things easy for our team today but we did manage a few awesome sightings out at sea. Our underwater encounter on this mornings snorkelling tour with a group of Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) was short but sweet and we returned with boat full of satisfied guests.
Our team managed to find some spotted dolphins again during the afternoon tours along with a group of Blainville’s beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris). We were lucky with the beaked whales; the group contained some calves which kept the animals at the surface for a longer period allowing our guests to get a great look at the animals. The upward curving lower jaw, which is characteristic for the species, gives them an almost offended-looking facial expression. The species was a wonderful contrast to the curious “smiling” spotted dolphins who engaged in a little bow-ride as our vessels approached, adding a little variety to our encounters at sea.
No matter the facial features or the level of curiosity, it’s always a pleasure to meet these magnificent animals out at sea!
By Paula Thake
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
10:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins
15:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Blainville’s beaked whales
Stenella
09:30 Atlantic spotted dolphins
14:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Blainville’s beaked whales
17:00 Atlantic spotted dolphins, Blainville’s beaked whales