Hello everyone….
We are excited to announce that we are starting the Ocean Conservationist season with our partners at DFDS, sailing from Dieppe-Newhaven on 26th April 2023.
I should start by introducing myself - my name is Marthe, and as you might have guessed by my name, I am French. I am a conservation biologist, and by working as an Ocean Conservationist at ORCA, I am able (and excited) to share my passion for the ocean with you throughout the coming season.
I will be re-embarking on this incredible route to record cetaceans and give presentations on the wildlife that can be spotted in the English Channel (in both English and French). This season I’ve also created some games to increase knowledge about these wonderful animals while having fun. If you are looking for me on the ship, I will most likely be outside doing deck watch.
Last year went by way too quickly since, as we all know, when having a good time, we can’t seem to see the hours passing, and I I hope everyone on board will feel the same I hope to see many cetaceans such as the bottlenose or common dolphins, and a couple of whales, such as humpback or minke whales.
Last season I was lucky to have many interesting conversations with the passengers on board. Some were debates on various subjects regarding conservation work and but I also learned a lot from these interesting and often inspiring discussions.. It’s always especially motivating to meet children who sometimes know more about animals than I did. I often wonder if they will pursue a path like us and become the next generation of Ocean Conservationists. I was so excited to see many of you interested in ORCA’s work and your concern for cetaceans globally. I hope to see even more of you and have more wonderful conversations together.
Thanks to the surveys from 2022, we created a map of sightings that you can see in the following picture. Last year we recorded an increased number of common dolphins but its too early to say if this is a trend or a one-off. As you might know, we need a lengthier period of observation to have a definite answer. 2023’s sightings data will increase our knowledge of the cetaceans present in the English Channel.
I am so looking forward to meeting you all on these crossings and to help you learn more about cetaceans! You will find me on this route from the end of April to September, Wednesday-Sunday, alternating between the DFDS ships Côte d’Albâtre and Seven Sisters. I hope we’ll have an incredible time searching for whales and dolphins together! I can’t wait to get started…..
I look forward to seeing you all on board and learning and sharing all those wonderful moments to come.
Lastly, if you see me, come and talk to me for us to grow together.
À bientôt
Marthe
Ocean Conservationist, English Channel.