We joined the morning DFDS sailing from Portsmouth to Jersey aboard the Stena Vinga. The staff welcomed us on board, and we were introduced to the captain and crew who were interested in our work and very helpful throughout the trip.

Our first sighting was a Common Gull to add to the ones we had seen in port. A flurry of auks over lunchtime tested our ID skills – a challenge with both Razorbill and Guillemot seen from behind flying ahead of the ship. A couple of Kittiwake passed, and we picked up a few Gannet during the afternoon.

The highlight was an adult Gannet that cruised alongside the ship for 15 minutes, flying just off the starboard side level with our view, and giving us the chance to see the stunning detail around the eye and bill. The Gannet was joined by a Lesser Black-backed Gull which stuck by the boat for over an hour, riding the bow and circling back time and time again to regain its position at the stern.

There was enough wind to generate riffles and white caps which made scanning for cetaceans more difficult. The crew were eager to help, and many eyes were scanning for the dolphins that they often see near Alderney, but they alluded us on this occasion.

We lost the light just as we came into Jersey, and it was lovely to see St Helier lit up as we docked. Many thanks to the staff and crew of the Stena Vinga who were friendly and helpful throughout and made it a very enjoyable trip.

Judith Tatem and Nick Tomalin, Research Surveyors for MARINElife (Registered Charity No. 1110884; Registered Company No. 5057367)

Weather

Wind SW, full cloud cover, occasional patches of drizzle, visibility moderate-poor