Penzance-St Mary’s Ferry Route Recognized as UK’s Premier Wildlife Spotting Location

A ferry service operating between Penzance and St Mary’s has been designated as the premier location in the UK for observing wildlife for the third year in a row. According to Isles of Scilly Travel, the marine conservation organization ORCA documented 347 individual animals, representing seven distinct marine species, from the vessel Scillonian III during 2024. Lucy Babey, who serves as ORCA’s director of programmes, stated that among the observed creatures were common dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, minke whales, and sunfish. Sharon Sandercock, the communications manager for Isles of Scilly Travel, remarked: “It’s no wonder our passengers say the journey on Scillonian III is a big part of their island experience.” The ferry service reported that marine mammal experts carried out 15 surveys spanning from March to November 2024, covering a total distance of 1,868km (1,160m). It was noted that common dolphins were the most commonly observed species, with 262 animals sighted over the course of the year and documented during nearly all surveys. The ferry operator indicated that the total number of sightings decreased in 2024, and a shift in the spatial arrangement of animals along the route was observed. It was mentioned that Risso’s dolphin observations continued to be elevated this year, relative to the historical trend, with 12 animals recorded in 2024. It further stated: “Research is mounting to suggest that warming oceans have altered the life cycles and distribution of some of their prey in the English Channel and Western Approaches, which could explain a change in occurrence.” Ms. Babey commented that the period of surveys underscored the significance of “continued monitoring.” She further elaborated: “With trends and shifts in cetacean distribution being reported on in real-time, the information collected during ORCA surveys is crucial for cetacean conservation.” She concluded by saying: “We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings.” For further updates, BBC Cornwall can be followed on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story suggestions may be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. This material is Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.