Punta Vicente Roca

Galapagos is always full of surprises; when we go out we never know what we may see. This morning, during our panga ride along the coast of Punta Vicente Roca, we spotted a large pod of bottlenose dolphins from the pangas (local name for small vessels such as our faithful Zodiacs). As we approached the group excitedly, several of these beautiful creatures, far from being timid of us, came towards our pangas to bow ride. Many of them were females with calves, and we got a chance to observe them up close, and watch fascinating behavioral displays, such as repeated fluke slaps on the surface of the water called lob-tailing. Several animals left us open-mouthed as they leaped clear from the water, often coming close to splashing us! It is not uncommon for many species of cetaceans, especially dolphins, to ride the pressure waves formed at the bow of boats and ships. They jostle for the best position, where they can be pushed along in the water by the force of the wave. Some smaller cetaceans ride the bow waves of large whales in exactly the same way. Bottlenose dolphins vary greatly in shape, color and size from one individual to another. Their main characteristics include a prominent, dark dorsal fin, combined with an inquisitive and active behavior that will never cease to enchant anyone who comes across them.