Brittany Ferries and Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) Ireland have launched a whale and dolphin spotting app.
The exciting development marks a significant step in their 15-year commitment to marine conservation.
Building on this long-standing partnership, the app has been launched in Ireland as a response to increased wildlife sightings in recent years, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting marine life.
The partnership between the French ferry company and ORCA to date has provided valuable insights into the rich marine biodiversity in the Celtic Sea.
Recent surveys from ORCA have shown a significant increase in common dolphin sightings since 2019. In total, 4,222 common dolphins have been sighted, making them the most frequently observed cetacean in the survey, while harbour porpoise sightings have declined.
The launch of this app aims to engage the public in ocean preservation efforts, allowing them to report their own sightings, and will aid in collecting further data to understand these fluctuations. ORCA data also showed the presence of several other species, including 62 Fin whales, 46 Minke whales, 12 Risso’s dolphins, and a long-finned pilot whale spotted for the first time last year. The data collected from the app will contribute to a better understanding of the distribution and behaviour of marine life in the Celtic Sea.
The app launch invites public participation by encouraging users to report their own wildlife sightings. This initiative aligns with the return of Brittany Ferries ‘Sea-Safari’ mini cruises, offering passengers a unique opportunity to spot various marine species. Sailing between Rosslare and Bilbao, the cruises journey through the Bay of Biscay, a globally recognised hotspot for marine wildlife and birdlife, where over one-third of the world’s whale and dolphin species have been recorded. With ORCA’s experienced guides on board, passengers can enjoy expert insights and make the most of their wildlife experience.
"We are thrilled to launch this app in Ireland as part of our continued partnership with Brittany Ferries," says Steve Jones, Director of Fundraising & Operations at ORCA. “The increased sightings of species like common dolphins really shows us the importance of our work and the need for continued monitoring. We encourage everyone to download the app and become citizen scientists and support these crucial research efforts.”
Hugh Bruton, General Manager of Brittany Ferries Ireland, added: “Our partnership with ORCA is a key component of our CSR initiatives. The whale and dolphin app is a fantastic way to not only celebrate the biodiversity of the Celtic Sea, but also to get the public involved with marine conservation. We're particularly excited to combine this with our new Sea-Safari mini cruise, where guests can experience this incredible marine life firsthand. We encourage everyone to experience the wonders of the Celtic Sea.”
Brittany Ferries "Sea-Safari" mini cruises allow passengers to experience marine life firsthand, designed to allow guests to experience the wonders of the Celtic Sea.
The data collected from the app will contribute to a better understanding of the distribution and behaviour of marine life in the Celtic Sea. This valuable data strengthens preservation initiatives and provides deeper insights into ocean health and its ongoing changes.
Its ‘Sea-Safari’ cruises offer passengers a unique opportunity to spot various marine species. During these unique voyages, guests will be accompanied by expert wildlife officers from ORCA, who provide in-depth insights and guidance for spotting whales and dolphins.
Every ticket sold supports ocean conservation with €60 being donated to ORCA.
To learn more about the cruises click here (on selected dates July-Sept) and to download the ORCA Observers app, click this link
