29.06.2026 – Very dynamic

Published by Fatima Kutzschbach on July 4, 2026

This morning, just as we were leaving the harbour, we spotted the first Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). What appeared to be a small group of about 12 animals turned out to be a sub-group of a larger pod. One dolphin was performing powerful leaps. Why? Well, a very close look beneath its pectoral fin revealed the reason. A remora (Echeneidae) had attached itself there. The dolphin was probably trying to shake it off.
Afterwards, we were treated to a wonderful, rare surprise! False killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens) were passing through our waters. Their physical appearance is torpedo-like. Their behaviour is extremely dynamic. A mother swam into the bow wave of the Ribeira Brava with her calf. It seemed as though she was giving her calf a lesson in bow-wave riding. We truly enjoyed it.

By Fatima Kutzschbach

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

09:00 Bottlenose dolphins, False Orcas

13:00 Bottlenose dolphins

Steno

09:30 Bottlenose dolphins, False Orcas, Atlantic spotted dolphins

13:30 Bottlenose dolphins, Tropical whale