Following a smooth check-in, we set sail from Poole in good conditions. Being the second week of the school holidays, the ship was busy, and people were out on deck enjoying the fine views this vantage point offers of Poole Harbour and Brownsea Island.
As we passed by Brownsea Lagoon, there were sightings of Herring Gull, Cormorant, Shag, Geese, terns, Little Egret, Oystercatcher and Spoonbill. Further on, there were great views of Common Seal hauled out on a sand spit.
Soon after passing Old Harry Rocks, we began to pick up sightings of Gannets. Singles were seen initially, but numbers increased as we approached the Gannet colony at Ortac Rock. The rock is always a superb sight, but today, bathed in sunlight, with so many Gannets swirling around, the view was spectacular. Shearwaters were also seen, not in huge numbers, but these are always a treat to watch. A barrel jellyfish and other jellyfish could also be seen.
Disembarking in gorgeous sunshine, time ashore in Guernsey passed all too quickly. There was time for a quick look into the clear waters of the marina, where several Grey Mullet could be seen feeding in the calm, shallow water. After a walk to Castle Cornet, a quick paddle on the nearby beach and cheeky ice cream, it was time to head back for the return sailing.
The trip back was again productive in terms of sightings, but this time it was more about fins than feathers. North of Alderney, we began to see small groups of Common Dolphin and Harbour Porpoise, these intermittent sightings continued for some time. Fellow passengers were reporting sightings from all areas of the ship, with one passenger particularly pleased with spotting their first ever dolphin. What a treat! As the light began to fade, the lights of Swanage and surrounding villages came into view, and it was dark as we moored up and disembarked.
Many thanks to Condor Ferries for welcoming us aboard.
MARINElife WLO Chris Roberts
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Summary of Sightings
Marine Mammals
Common Dolphin
Harbour Porpoise
Common Seal
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Birds
Gannet
Shearwater
Lesser black-backed Gull
Greater black-backed Gull
Herring Gull
Cormorant
Shag
Spoonbill
Little Egret
Oystercatcher
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