The Atlantic Ocean offers the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of marine life, ranging from tiny plankton to majestic whales. Here are some of the marine creatures I might encounter during my journey:
Dolphins: Dolphins are common sights in the Atlantic Ocean and are known for their playful behaviour and acrobatic leaps. Rowers often spot pods of dolphins swimming alongside their boats, riding the bow waves, and performing synchronized jumps.
Whales: The Atlantic Ocean is home to various species of whales, including humpback whales, sperm whales, fin whales, and orcas. These magnificent creatures can be seen breaching the surface, spouting water from their blowholes, and diving gracefully beneath the waves.
Sharks: While encounters with sharks are relatively rare, the Atlantic Ocean is home to several species of sharks, including great white sharks, tiger sharks, and hammerhead sharks. Rowers may occasionally spot sharks swimming near the surface or catch glimpses of their dorsal fins as they patrol the waters below.
Sea Turtles: Atlantic waters are inhabited by several species of sea turtles, including loggerhead turtles, green turtles, and leatherback turtles. These ancient reptiles can often be seen surfacing to breathe or basking in the sun near the surface.
Marine Birds: The Atlantic Ocean is teeming with birdlife, including seagulls, pelicans, terns, and shearwaters. These birds can be seen soaring overhead, diving for fish, or resting on the water’s surface.
Flying Fish: Flying fish are a common sight in tropical and subtropical waters, including the Atlantic Ocean. These remarkable fish have the ability to glide above the water’s surface for short distances, using their wing-like fins to escape predators or cover long distances.
Jellyfish: Jellyfish are prevalent in the Atlantic Ocean, and rowers may encounter various species, including the Portuguese man o’ war and moon jellyfish. While most jellyfish are harmless, some species can deliver painful stings, so rowers should exercise caution when navigating through areas where jellyfish are present.
Marine Mammals: In addition to dolphins and whales, rowers may also encounter other marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, and manatees, particularly in coastal areas or near rocky outcrops.
Encountering marine life while rowing across the Atlantic can be a truly unforgettable experience, providing rowers with a deeper connection to the ocean environment and its inhabitants. However, it’s essential to observe these creatures from a respectful distance and minimize any disturbance to their natural behavior and habitat.
