We departed from the dock at 12:15 AM, embarking on a journey into the deep ocean. Our first order of business was to convene for a group meeting, during which we informed everyone that we had changed our course from the Hudson Canyon. Some expressions of concern were visible on their faces until we revealed our new destination. Due to the southward movement of warm water, we had to redirect our voyage towards Tom’s Canyon, which extended the duration of our trip. Surprisingly, most folks seemed content with the alteration, fully aware that it would lead us even further into the ocean’s depths. As night fell, the majority of us found solace in slumber, while a few chose to stay awake and gaze at the celestial wonders above. Some adventurous souls even set up camp on the boat’s second level, immersing themselves in the breathtaking experience of sleeping beneath the starry night sky.
At approximately 6:30 AM the following morning, we were roused from our slumber by Danielle’s cheerful voice. She greeted us with a “Good morning, everyone!” and announced the presence of dolphins on the starboard side of the boat. Instantly, everyone sprang into action, grabbing their cameras to capture the enchanting sight of dolphins and pilot whales frolicking before the break of dawn. It was an awe-inspiring experience that left us all in wonder.
Our voyage continued to exceed expectations as we ventured further, reaching a point 118 miles from Belmar, where the ocean floor plunged to a staggering 8,000 feet in depth. Here, we were treated to the extraordinary sight of beaked whales, a rarity that surfaced approximately every half-hour. In fact, there were three of them, ensuring that we had something incredible to behold every ten minutes. The journey was nothing short of spectacular, with serene waters that can be appreciated in the photos we captured.
I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to repeat this incredible voyage. It surpasses any coastal trip we’ve undertaken, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The only requirement is a willingness to spend 18 hours aboard a boat. In the future, we plan to organize shorter trips, and we may even consider longer, more luxurious journeys for those who prefer more comfortable sleeping accommodations. Please share your thoughts and comments below if you’re interested in joining us on our upcoming adventures.
Thanks to Bill, Danielle, Captain Eddie, and the crew of the Jersey Girl for making this trip so extraordinary. We look forward to reuniting soon for another unforgettable Jersey Shore Whale Watch experience. A special shout-out to Paul, our Pollock expert, and his friends, who did an outstanding job identifying various birds and wildlife we encountered along the way.
We saw 100 plus striped dolphins
