Thanks to Julie for sharing this news. Ed
Fresh from his cruise ship-based documentary series, TV wildlife expert Nigel Marven was in the passenger terminal Portsmouth International Port today to kick start ORCA OceanWatch.
Known for his infectious on-screen enthusiasm, Nigel used a 50 foot long life sized model of a Blue Whale to teach a class of local school children about the importance of these incredible and important mammals.
ORCA OceanWatch
ORCA is one of Europe’s leading whale, dolphin and porpoise conservation charities. The aim of ORCA OceanWatch (25 July – 2 August) will help build a comprehensive picture of where whales, dolphins and porpoises are distributed in UK and European waters.
The charity has recently trained crews from The Royal Navy, P&O Cruises, Cunard, Wightlink and commercial shipping companies operating from Portsmouth International Port to spot cetaceans (the collective name for whales, dolphins and porpoises). The reports from the bridge of each vessel will be collated to give a detailed view of current numbers and habitats.
Nigel said,
“There’s a rich variety of creatures living in the sea just off the south coast, and the closer you get to the Bay of Biscay the more chance you have of seeing these majestic marine mammals.
“Ferries from Portsmouth to Spain sail across the Bay of Biscay, one of the most important hotspots on the planet for whales, dolphins and porpoises. By recording their numbers we will learn even more about them, and help protect their habitats.”
Isle of Wight Dolphin Sightings
We’ve had reports of three different dolphin species from the Isle of Wight over the last six weeks – Bottlenose Dolphins near St. Catherine’s Point, White beaked dolphins from The Needles and also a pod of Common dolphins were seen on consecutive days in Freshwater Bay.
Sightings of dolphins from the Isle of Wight are quite rare, so there must be an unusually large amount of food around at the moment. ORCA are organising shore-watches for whales and dolphins during the OceanWatch week, and over the summer months to better understand the populations of these animals that are visiting Solent Waters.
Get actively involved in marine conservation
Sally Hamilton, UK Director of ORCA said,
“OceanWatch Week will be the offshore component to the National Whale and Dolphin Watch Week which is run every year by the Sea Watch Foundation.
“We’ve enlisted the help of local seafaring businesses that use Portsmouth International Port and ports along the south of England. It’s a fantastic way for the public and local businesses and organisations who use the sea to get actively involved in marine conservation.”
Exhibition at Portsmouth International Port
Today’s launch also saw the start of a three week long exhibition at Portsmouth International Port, highlighting the work of ORCA and focusing on the creatures that passengers might see during their crossing. All ferry and cruise ship passengers will be able to enjoy the exhibition as the busy summer holiday season gets underway. Free “spotters guides” are being given out so ferry and cruise ship customers can make the most of their time at sea.
Martin Putman, Manager at Portsmouth International Port, said
“We know that passengers really enjoy seeing whales, dolphins and porpoises from ferries that are heading to Europe from Portsmouth International Port, with a growing number taking advantage of Brittany Ferries whale watching mini cruises. I’m delighted that so many ships coming and going from Portsmouth have signed up for The ORCA OceanWatch Week, and know it will provide invaluable information for the charity to use. “
#Pipsea
Passengers travelling to France, Spain and the Channel Islands are also being invited to help celebrate the sea this summer. Anyone posting an ocean inspired picture on social media with the hashtag #Pipsea stands a chance of winning the latest top of the range GoPro action camera. The winner will be chosen at the end of the summer holiday season. Competition details will be on the spotter’s guide available at the Port.
For more information about ORCA OceanWatch please visit the Website.
