Sun July 9 – Whale Watching

Fourth cetacean species in only three trips!

Today’s whale watch was an exercise in patience. Reports of bottlenose dolphins brought us southwest in search of these dynamic cetaceans. Despite abundant prey just below the surface for much of our transit, no dolphins were found. We passed through numerous patches of sargassum, hoping to spot a turtle or two, but no turtles were found. Occasional sightings of Great shearwaters entertained us while searching for life at the surface. We headed into deeper water, keeping dry from the soaking rains pounding the mainland. At last, a blow and fin were spotted and investigated, revealing a fin whale, our fourth cetacean species in only our third trip of the season! The fin whale appeared to be feeding, spending short intervals underwater and surfacing around our vessel. While watching this whale, a second whale appeared, presumably a second, smaller fin whale, although only brief glimpses were granted. Unfortunately, already running late, we needed to transit back to the dock and leave these two behind. Passengers were happy to have spent time with the whales, a first experience for many on board! Every trip is different and we never know what we will see (or when) and this trip was a perfect example of that.

We sail every Sunday and Wednesday through early September. Book your trip with us today!

Photos available at https://drartiek-cresli.smugmug.com/CRESLI-2023-Whale-Watches/2023-07-09-Montauk-Whale-Watch/

2 Fin whales

140-180 Great shearwaters

1 Cory’s shearwater

2 Sooty shearwaters

5-8 Wilson storm petrels

***photos to follow***