13.05.2026 – Breach and Splash

Today this morning, we were able to observe three different dolphin species — a wonderfully varied start to the day on the Atlantic Ocean. Particularly present were our “human watchers,” the Short-beaked Common Dolphins (Delphinus delphis) and the Atlantic Spotted Dolphins (Stenella frontalis). Our winter dolphins, the Common Dolphins, approached the boat curiously and seemed to observe the people just as attentively as we observed them. Again and again, they appeared right at the bow, gliding playfully through the waves and accompanying the boat for extended periods of time.

The Striped Dolphins, on the other hand, behaved a little more reserved. With fast and elegant leaps, they repeatedly broke through the water’s surface while keeping a noticeable distance from the boat. It is exactly this mixture of closeness and wildness that makes every encounter unique and reminds us that we are guests in their world. A big thank you once again to our morning guests for their spirit of adventure ;).

At midday, the whales became the main focus of the trip. A group of Blainville’s Beaked Whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) appeared surprisingly open and relaxed. These animals are usually considered rather shy and elusive, which makes such encounters especially memorable. Our guests were able to enjoy watching the Beaked whales and their calm movements.

A Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) also created an unforgettable moment when it suddenly leapt out of the water — a behaviour that is only rarely observed in these enormous marine mammals. Shortly afterwards, Atlantic Spotted Dolphins accompanied the boat, playfully leaping through the waves.

Why do whales breach? Scientists believe that this behaviour may serve several different purposes. A breach can be a form of communication, as the loud impact on the water’s surface can be heard over great distances. Some species may also breach to remove parasites or dead skin. In social species, breaching appears to be part of playful or social behaviour and is especially common among younger animals. At the same time, breaches may express excitement, orientation, or reactions to other animals. Despite many scientific studies, every whale breach remains a fascinating moment that continues to inspire wonder and admiration in people around the world.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Steno

09:30 Striped dolphins, Common dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Blainville’s beaked whales, Sperm whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins

Stenella

09:30 Striped dolphins, Common dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Blainville’s beaked whales, Sperm whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins