Dolphins and dinner

 April 19

Today was a sea day, en route to the Canary Islands. Although we are now about 20 degrees north of the equator, we are back to the emptiness of the deep ocean. We did see a few seabirds, including a species we had been hoping for over the past three days, the Cape Verde Storm-petrel. The storm-petrel is a small bird (wingspan 18 inches) that glides just above the waves. Its dark back is hard to discern against the dark blue water, especially when looking down from the Bridge on Deck 7.  There were also several good sightings of pods of dolphins, but no whales.  The first set was early this morning.  It appeared to be a mixed pod consisting of Atlantic and Clymene Dolphins.  The last set of dolphins passed by quickly during dinner.   More on that later.

Most Lindblad / National Geographic cruises include guest researchers. On this trip we are joined by two young Brazilian men who are working on techniques to improve the interrogation and understanding of ocean depths below 30 meters (the limit of conventional diving). It has been possible for some time to use ROVs (remote operated vehicles) to video in deep waters. Most videos show likely new species, but to characterize them, and begin to understand their role in the marine ecosystem, it is necessary to collect actual samples. So far, during our trip,  our researchers have been able to prove that their ROV is functional but conditions have not been right for sample collection yet. 

The chef and his staff on the ship create marvelous meals (plus snacks and afternoon tea). A few days ago the cooks created a menu for dinner that included some of their favorite foods. Tonight’s dinner was seven courses with a wine pairing for each. Our table was hosted by the ship’s hotel manager, Petula Clarke.  As mentioned above, a small pod of dolphins appeared between the fourth and fifth courses.  People started jumping up from their tables to see the dolphins.  The look on Petula’s face was not a happy one — she was concerned that dolphins would steal the evening.  As we told her would happen, the dolphins disappeared quickly and our dinner continued without interruption.  The meal was truly exceptional, and we look forward to trying to replicate some of the offerings. 

Pictured: our table at dinner and the menu