Pilot whales on a mission
Silver Bear
Ray Lawry
Wed 9 Jun 2010 12:21
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45:51.7400N 23:12.0000W
The sun was fading as a pod of, what initially
appeared to be large dolphins, were sighted some way off the stern. They
were soon identified as pilot whales numbering well over 25 and heading towards
us, clearly on a mission, and looking spectacular. It was at this stage
that Tony put the experience in question with the phrase "I don't want
to frighten you guys but...." he then went on to describe the ordeal of a man
who spent 72 days in a liferaft in the Pacific after his yacht was attacked and
destroyed by these awsome creatures. By this time the lead members were drawing
quite close to us and still heading directly towards us, others were out on the
starboard quarter. Ever one for helpful contributions Duncan suggested arming
with knives and jumping in to fight them off, although I don't think he was
ready to lead the charge! I had heard of the ordeal mentioned by Tony as the
book is part of the recommended reading material on a Sea Survival course I
attended before we came away and I was beginning to wish I had taken the time
to read it. Just in case we had been mistaken for large piece of prey
I thought it prudent to start the engine which resulted in the pod veering away
and swimming off to the west.
Fortunately all four of us were wide awake to
witness this experience otherwise it might be reasonable to assume we had been
at sea too long and going bonkers. We did manage a short clip of video but
suspect it will be more sea and wind with the odd black blob.
Had another visit this-morning, a group of pilot
whales following the boat but this time less interested in us and providing
great entertainment. They did'nt seem too interested in the fishing lure. Still
no fish to eat!
Have now crossed latitude 45 degrees and set a
straight course for the Lizard. As forecast the wind has moved to the north so
it could be a fine reach for some time.
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