The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) has opened up a research charter scheduled for tomorrow morning to non-members.

The formerly “members only” research trip is hoping to find and photograph the humpback whale confirmed in the area yesterday afternoon, and is scheduled to leave Reen Pier, Union Hall, West Cork at 9am sharp… details via the IWDG provided below:

Yesterday afternoon (Mon 18th) there was a humpback whale confirmed in West Cork by Micheal Cottrell, and images obtained by local IWDG members Simon Duggan and Youen Yacob confirm this young animal to be a new humpback whale previously unrecorded in Irish waters. So were delighted to welcome #HBIRL22.

We are planning an IWDG charter with Colin Barnes this Wed and spaces will be filled on a 1st come come served basis. The weather is looking favourable with light winds and the humpback may well remain in the area till then, and so we have a reasonable chance of locating the animal. While there are of course no guarantees. Unfortunately the weather is going to turn nasty on Thursday, so we think it unlikely that there will be too many other opportunities to locate and photograph this animal in the week ahead.

We have agreed a rate of €35 per person for IWDG members (€45 for non-members). The MV Holly Jo will depart Reen Pier, near Union Hall, West Cork at 9:00 am sharp.

Please direct all enquiries/bookings to Mobile: 086 3850568 for confirmation or email: [email protected]

Suggest if you are travelling from outside the Munster area that you travel Tuesday evening and book into a local B&B in Union Hall, so that you can start the day fresh.

Please note it will be perishingly cold on the water and you’ll need to dress appropriately for the weather. You will need to bring a pack lunch and perhaps a flask, but teas and coffees are available on board.

Again, sorry for the short notice. Look forward to hearing from you

Pádraig Whooley
Sightings Co-ordinator

As Pádraig points out there are no guarantees, but this is a great opportunity to get out for a potentially unforgettable wildlife encounter. To book your place on the trip contact Pádraig directly on the mobile number or email address above — and don’t forget to share any photographs on the Ireland’s Wildlife Facebook page or the Flickr group.