Week number 3 of our new scientific programme on the Celtic Mist was, like the previous ones, unique and fantastic. Even if our first sailing day was rough, we were fortunate enough to spot a basking shark as our first sighting of the week, thanks to curious juveniles gannets circling above (birds are always good help!). All week, we encountered small pods of common dolphins, bottling grey seals (still in water with just the head on surface) and Minke whales. We also observed marine birds, like shearwaters, puffins and very cute guillemot chicks.
We were very lucky to observe wildlife very closely. One of the Minke whales we spotted was very curious while our engine was off and came “human-watching” at 20m from the boat, along with a small pod of common dolphins. A truly magical moment! Another close fascinating encounter was diving gannets next to us when anchored in Crookhaven for the night. We also had unexpected guests for lunch during our last day while we sailed to Crosshaven, some cheeky herring gulls catching a lift!
Its not all about the wildlife on Celtic Mist. We are also able to explore and stay in some beautiful locatons along the south coast. As a part of onboard life we also have to cope with Ireland’s weather, which included being on anchor watch for two nights to make sure we were safe: first night in Glandore and third night in Crookhaven. Howeve, this meant that we were able to observe beautiful starry skies and witnessed the amazing lights of dawn. During calm sunny early mornings we even took time for swimming.
We stayed anchored in Glandore during our second day due to strong winds. We went on land for a nice walk and had an ice cream and a drink with a beautiful view of the bay and the Celtic Mist. At sea, we enjoyed great landscapes too, like Fastnet Lighthouse, the most southerly point of Ireland, and the Beacon Hill.
This week was all about learning, but not only about marine wildlife. We learned more French, Spanish, Irish, even Dutch and German words wih out incredibly multilingual crew onboard this week, and got to know each other through the piece of paper and a pen game, as well as learning other cards game (and students turned into masters every time… Sorry Denis!). But as you can see below, we still need to learn to take good selfies…!
Overall, we sailed 160 nautical miles (near 300km) in 4 days and spent more than 25 hours on visual effort (searching for animals). We recorded a total of 57 sightings, including 10 minke whale sightings. Our last day of survey was the best and craziest day with 38 sightings!
Thanks to you all for the craic and the laughs and the enjoyment of being in your company
-Paul, skipper of the week.
Thanks a million for your help and commitment to IWDG and to this scientific programme.
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