27.11.2018 – Humble solitude
December 6, 2018
29.11.2018 – Foam & Fountains
December 10, 2018
Today’s tour developed into a surprising way. As soon as we were leaving the harbour we had already the information of Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus). A short time after came the announcement that the animals have dived. To our surprise, we suddenly discovered the high spout of a Baleen whale. The two parallel traces of fluke prints on the water surface clearly showed that they were two animals. Despite very patient guests, we hardly got to see these Baleen whales. An identification could not be made with absolute certainty. We assume that they were Sei whales (Balaenoptera borealis).
Once again we got from our spotter, the information about Sperm whales and continued our journey in their direction. When suddenly a wild-bubbly school of Atlantic Spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) crossed our path. What a joy! Our last sighting with these small, interactive dolphins was about six weeks ago. We had almost assumed that our “summer” dolphins had already set out to spend the winter in more southern climates.
As the Sperm whales swam towards Funchal, we did not see them anymore. But Baleen whales and the wonderful Atlantic spotted dolphins can be called a beautiful success.
By Fatima Kutzschbach
Sightings of the day
Ribeira Brava
14:30 Baleen whales, Atlantic Spotted dolphins
