24.06.2023 – A Rainblow tour

Today, we embarked on a truly unforgettable tour that etched itself into the depths of our souls. Attempting to capture the essence of the magical encounters we experienced seems futile, for words alone cannot do justice to the overwhelming emotions that stirred within us.

The day burst into life with an electrifying energy as Blainville’s beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) emerged from the depths, gracing us with their presence. Their majestic surfacing left us in awe, but little did we know that nature had even more surprises in store. Just a short distance away, a playful pod of Spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) awaited our arrival, and we couldn’t be happier. 

As the day unfolded, our anticipation soared to new heights, yet nothing could have prepared us for the sheer magnificence that awaited us. Without warning, a call resonated through the air, drawing our attention to the bow of our vessel. And there they were—three juvenile Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus), gliding effortlessly through the azure waters beside us. It was a surreal encounter that transcended all expectations.

The interaction with these gentle giants was nothing short of extraordinary. In their serene presence, excitement surged through our veins, and a sense of pure wonder got over us. It was as if time stood still, and we found ourselves immersed in a realm of absolute harmony.

Just when we thought our hearts couldn’t bear any more exhilaration, a phenomenon unfolded before our very eyes. We witnessed the spectacle known as a ‘Rainblow,’ a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. As the Sperm whales exhaled with a force that defied imagination, the expelled water mingled with sunlight, creating a dazzling rainbow that arched gracefully in the sky. The sheer beauty of the moment left us speechless, our hearts swelling with gratitude for being privy to such a rare occurrence.

But the wonders of the day were far from over. As if in perfect synchrony with the ethereal display, a tiny creature made its presence known—an exquisite seahorse (Hippocampus erectus). Gliding through the crystal-clear waters, it seemed to dance to an invisible melody on its sargassum algae, captivating our souls with its delicate grace. This unexpected sighting reminded us of the intricate and delicate balance of life that thrives beneath the surface of the sea.

As the tour drew to a close, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude and awe for the incredible encounters we had experienced. The memories of this extraordinary day would forever be etched in our hearts, serving as a reminder of the boundless wonders that the ocean holds. 

Today’s tour was not just a journey through the vastness of the sea, but a journey within ourselves—a journey of wonder, awe, and a profound appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. And as we disembarked, we carried with us a promise to protect and preserve this precious realm, so that future generations may also have the privilege of experiencing such extraordinary moments.

by Camila Dávila

Sightings of the day

Ribeira Brava

15:00 Spotted dolphins, Sperm whales, Man 0’ War, Cory’s shearwater, Flying fish

Stenella

9:00 Blainvilles beaked whales, Bottlenose dolphins, Spotted dolphins

13:30 Blainvilles beaked whales, Spotted dolphins

16:00 Spotted dolphins, Sperm whales, Seahorse