I've long thought that the stand in ferry was having an effect on the bottlenose activity in the bay as they are A, coming in less than previous years, and B, when they are here move off as the ferry approaches. It is far more noisy with strong low frequency engine sounds than the Stena Europe. This I'm convinced has an adverse effect on the dolphins. Interesting to note today that when the ferry engines started the activity of the commons became more charged and agitated. As the ferry left the wall the dolphins started moving out too seemingly confused as to which direction to take. The group split as some headed toward the end of the breakwater and the rest toward lower town. They then turned to join the other group and crossed the bow of the ferry as it rounded the breakwater. Now as if trapped between the ship and the breakwater they grouped tight and charged back into the bay. As the ferry headed off they calmed again as if assessing the situation then all headed out at top speed toward the open sea. It does make you wonder.
Anyway, enjoy the images and I've taken some video footage too which will appear when I have the time to put it all together.
