Today was scheduled to be the hottest day of the year so far. Consequently, lots of passengers were on deck enjoying exceptional visibility around Poole Harbour. It was even calm enough for some children to play a board game on deck.

Around the terminal area were Herring Gull, Starling, Pied Wagtail and Wood Pigeon.

The first delight which prompted a lot of conversations was seeing Brownsea Lagoon being used by many different species: Cormorant, Great Black-backed Gull, Greylag and Canada Geese, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 4 Spoonbill and Oystercatcher. Sandwich and Common Tern were fishing in the harbour too.

The second delight: 2 Grey Seals lying out on ‘Stony island’ just outside Brownsea. People loved seeing them relaxing in the warmth surrounded by glittering blue waters. Dotted here and there on marker buoys were Shag and more Great Black-backed Gull. As we moved out into the main channel and the land began to disappear from view the Gannets appeared majestically flying just above the water.

Passengers were interested to see the ‘Galeon Andalucia’ a replica galleon which was slowly sailing towards Poole. It looked quite spectacular even from a distance.

The travellers were keen to tell their stories about wildlife seen during their adventures. Many were returning home to either Guernsey or Alderney. Gannet numbers increased suddenly as we passed the colony on Ortac rock. This really is quite a sight with Alderney behind and signifies the imminent arrival into Guernsey.

On disembarking Liberation and passing check in there was a beautiful scent coming from the many plant pots that were adorned with flowers of deep pink, purple and yellow. Considerable effort had clearly been made to brighten up the harbour edge. Guernsey had the usual happy vibe with Red Admiral and Speckled Wood Butterflies. The bathing pools as ever were very refreshing.

After Ortac Rock I made the most of the lovely food in Casquets Bistro and returned to the deck. On the way back a man and daughter reported seeing three Bottlenose Dolphin on the way over in the Channel. It was a stunning evening with golden hues casting down over the Purbeck Hills.

Thanks to Condor Ferries and the crew of Condor Liberation for their support and assistance.

MARINElife WLO Christine Arnold