A Day to Remember
We left the harbour filled with anticipation, eager for what the open ocean had in store.
The gentle swell lulled us into relaxation, a stark contrast to the remarkable events ahead. As the wind strengthened and the waves rose, so did our excitement, knowing we were in for an unforgettable day.
Dolphin Delight
Our adventure began with the exhilarating sight of common dolphins racing alongside the vessel. Their sleek bodies sliced through the water as they chased a bait ball, putting on a spectacular display. Above them, flesh-footed shearwaters swooped and circled, adding to the dynamic scene of nature’s abundance.
Curved Fins Sighted
Not long after, we spotted not one but two groups of long-finned pilot whales. Among them, oceanic bottlenose dolphins played energetically, bringing joy to everyone on board. Watching a mother and calf interact highlighted the strong familial bonds beneath the waves.
A Sight for Sore Eyes
With no orca activity at our initial hotspot, we adjusted course westward. Our patience paid off when a majestic sperm whale appeared in the distance. Recognisable by its distinctive bushy blow, this ocean giant inspired awe. As it dove gracefully, its massive fluke emerged, a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty of these deep-sea dwellers.
Daylight Scavenge
Our journey took an unexpected turn when we came across a chaotic flurry of seabirds scavenging the remains of a squid. Speculation ran high—was it a colossal squid? The mystery surrounding this elusive creature only added to the thrill as we observed seabirds feasting on the last of the massive cephalopod.
Blows in the Distance
As the afternoon sun dipped lower, distant blows sparked a surge of anticipation. Approaching the scene, we encountered members of the Split Tips pod, their playful energy a testament to the intelligence and social bonds of orcas. Among them, Blackberry, a massive bull orca, commanded attention with his sheer power and presence.
Just when we thought the day had reached its peak, a massive male sperm whale surfaced mere metres from our vessel, clutching a chunk of squid in its jaws.
End-of-Day Dramatic Encounter
What followed was an intense encounter between the sperm whale and the surrounding orcas, both vying for possession of the prized prey. This raw display of nature’s survival challenges was both humbling and exhilarating. The reality of life in the wild played out before our eyes—where every meal is a hard-won battle.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and we made our way home, the day’s unforgettable encounters lingered in our minds. Today was a powerful reminder of the magic that awaits on the open seas.
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Where to next? Augusta Whale Watching Tours commence May 25
