Despite the strong winds and the threat of rain, the crossing to Guernsey was a very comfortable one. The rain held off and the sun even made several appearances throughout the voyage. Upon leaving the ferry terminal, the sun deck was very busy and plenty of people were interested in the wildlife that might be seen, especially when I pointed out the Common or Harbour Seal on the sandbar. There were a number of Herring Gull flying around and plenty of Cormorant resting on the buoys, I even spotted a few Common Tern off the coast of Brownsea Island.
I started seeing Gannet as we headed out to sea from Poole, they really are quite magnificent birds. Two came alongside and we were able to really study them before they dropped back and glided in the slipstream of the boat. I was really hoping to spot some dolphin on the journey but unfortunately, not lucky enough.
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On the approach to Alderney, is Ortac Rock. This was completely white from a covering of hundreds of Gannets with a haze of Gannets hovering above. It was exciting to loan the binoculars with several passengers so they could share the experience. I also saw a large brown bird which I was excited to think might have been either a Great or Cory’s Shearwater, unfortunately, it flew in front of the bow and out of sight before I could identify it.
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After docking in St Peter Port, I had a wander around the town which was bustling and lively and then sat and had lunch in a restaurant overlooking the harbour and the Isles of Herm and Jethou. It was very picturesque and relaxing.
With the wind behind us on the return journey, it was a much calmer crossing. I was joined on deck with several passengers who were very keen to learn about the marine life that may be seen. One lady was specifically interested to see Gannet and I was able to assure her she would see them on Ortac Rock. She was not disappointed.
All in all, a very fun, educational and sociable day despite zero dolphin sightings.
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Thanks to Condor Ferries and the crew of the Condor Liberation for the support and assistance.
MARINElife/Condor WLO Nadine Hammond
Summary of sightings:
Marine Mammals
Common Seal
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Seabirds
Herring Gull
Cormorant
Common Tern
Gannet
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