Whales are a real threat with many instances
of collision being reported. The crew can expect to see several
varieties including humpbacks and orcas or killer whales.
Humpback whales
For reasons that are not understood, humpbacks engage in a variety
of behaviours. They may breach (leap into the air), or lobtail
(strike their flukes on the surface of the water).
They also lie on
their sides and roll, waving their huge white flippers in the
air and slapping the water.
Killer whales
Killer whales can be found in
all oceans, but are rarely in large numbers. Sightings in the
North West Atlantic have been reported from the ice edge, south
to the Caribbean. Killer whales may live for up to 35 years.
At the end of a year long pregnancy,
a 3 m calf weighing 400 lbs. is born, and is nursed for one
year. Males reach maturity at a length of 6 m, and females at
5 m.
Males are generally
larger than females, and can be up to 10 m long and weigh 8
tons. Females do not exceed 8.5 m in length. Males have a tall,
straight dorsal fin, while that of the female is smaller and
hooked.
Pete's written a book
Last time Peter Bray crossed the Atlantic it was in
a 27ft kayak. More>>
Heart's in the right place
While they're rowing their hearts out you can help them
help others. More>>
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