August 20 on the Granite State

Whales and weather were quite wonderful today aboard the Granite State. During both trips today we spotted Atlantic white-sided dolphins and multiple Sei whales! With conditions out on the open ocean being as nice as they were we were really able to get some spectacular looks at our dolphins today. These whales are so much fun to watch as these wild animals scoot around the boat with the greatest of ease. A few times we were even lucky to watch a few of these animals jump clear out of the water.One of our dolphins this morning was creating quite the ruckus as it continuously was slapping its tail on the surface of the water almost every single time it came up to the surface. A very interesting behavior to watch as we have not yet solved the mystery as to the reasoning behind this behavior. Potential ideas include communication between animals within the pod, communication with other whales in the area, playfulness, dominance between gender, or any combination of these or other options! One of the many reasons why the world of whales is so intriguing: we are always on the verge of learning more about any and all cetaceans when we have the opportunity to see these elegant animals in their natural habitat.

The Sei whales we spotted today were quite the sporatic creatures! These whales were at the surface for a couple breaths and then back under the water for 4-8 minutes at a time. But no complaints from us. These are the fastest baleen whales in the world (over 30mph!) and were thrilled that our whales were circling around the area and not torpedoing through the area as they are capable of achieving. A few surfacing allowed our passengers to really get some nice looks at these animals even if they were surfacing in different locations around the boat every time they came up to the surface.

The broad and tall shape of a Sei whale's dorsal fin

A Sei whale breaking the surface of the water, and pushing aside the water with its head, as it comes up for a breath of air

This morning we were also fortunate enough to find the Sperm whale that has been sighting over the past few days. This animal was definitely on the move which can be very challenging to stay with when you lose sight of it for 20+ minutes at a time and have absolutely no idea which direction it decided to travel once it dives under the water. The realization that this animal is still in our area is astounding and memorizing as we were yet again lucky enough to witness such a being. While we attempted to relocate this animal this afternoon, we were unsuccessful, but that is usually how it goes when you go in search of something wild and free.

Whether this whale has pressed on to other areas of Jeffreys Ledge or beyond I know I will never forget the brief visit from this animal and the pure bewilderment and memories shared with co-workers and passengers alike.
Special thanks to some of our "land-based" Blue Ocean Society committee and boards members, Leo and Julie, for coming along with us this morning. Best wishes to the friends/family and "soon-to-be" newlyweds who came aboard today, and to all of you who spent time on the water today. Thanks for your great questions and experiences you shared!



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