30.05.2022 – Surfing whales

Today’s tour was a salty wave ride for our guests. We went far, far west. The sea was rough out there. We had information from the spotter that there was a large pod of the Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis). The Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) which were also reported seemed out of reach for us. So we kept an eye out for the small, lively dolphins. But sometimes things turn out differently than we think. First it was one spout, then two, then three, then four. Our fishing boat Ribeira Brava surfed through swells and waves, accompanied by four relaxed Fin whales, who used the power of the sea for themselves at our side. It was a wonderful sighting, a fantastic encounter.

Fin whales can be identified very well by the asymmetrical coloring of their lower jaw. Their right side is bright white. Today’s photos show that very clearly. Despite being the second-largest animal on our planet, they face some dangers. Although they are fast swimmers, collisions with faster boats do occur. The still existing whaling also becomes a danger for the gentle giants. Although commercial whaling was banned in 1986, some countries such as Iceland, Norway and Japan do not comply with the international whaling ban. Dubious reasons such as tradition and scientific research are advanced as justification for the slaughter of these wonderful marine mammals. In fact, behind it is greed for profit and commercial interests. When whale meat is not served as a “traditional dish” or sold in supermarkets, it is used in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, animal feed or processed into fertilizer. A horrifying idea that hunted baleen whales, which play a crucial role in our oceans, are being harpooned because of man’s greed for money.

The nitrogen-rich whale feces has a beneficial effect on life and diversity in the sea. This excellent fertilizer ensures a higher production of zooplankton, which in turn benefits small fish, which in turn are used as a food source for larger fish. The phytoplankton in the sea is essential for us humans, because at least 50% of the oxygen on our planet is formed in our oceans. Every cloud of whale excrement contributes to an increase in phytoplankton through its nutrients. We owe every second breath to the sea and, in a way, to the whales. A good reason to protect these wonderful giants. Take a look at our petition page and stand up for the whales.

https://www.lobosonda.com/whale-watching/marine-protection/

However, today we had a very special and peaceful sighting with our four Fin whales and brought freshly cured and happy guests back to our marina.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sighting of the day

Ribeira Brava

10:00 Fin whales