Guided Trips
Pelagics
Since 2021 I have organised pelagic (offshore) boat trips off the coast of Pembrokeshire, out into the Celtic Deep, in search of passage and scarce seabirds. These trips take place from late July to early September. In all 3 years 2021-2022 we have recorded Wilson’s Storm Petrel (including 3 on one trip in 2022) and Great Shearwater. Other highlights have included Cory’s Shearwater, Roseate Tern, Great Skua, Arctic Skua and European Storm Petrel is seen on most trips.
It is not just about the birds: we have also recorded Blue Shark, Minke Whale, Ocean Sunfish, Risso’s Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise and on nearly every trip we enjoy superb views of Common Dolphin.
We sail from Neyland on board Dale Sailing’s Helen Claire, a twin-hulled speedster that gets us far offshore pretty quickly, her twin hulls providing excellent stability whilst we drift and ‘chum’ hoping to attract seabirds. The fact that we have only had one incidence of sea-sickness in the last two years should reassure even the wariest sailors.
Each trip last approximately eight hours: approximately 2-2.5 hours to get out to the Celtic Deep, 3-4 hours out there, and 2-2.5 hours back. You need to bring binoculars, a camera (if you have one), full waterproofs (just in case) and enough food and drink to last the day.
2024 dates: ** ALL DATES SOLD OUT ** 26th July, 3rd August, 9th August, 17th August, 30th August, 7th September.
Price: £105 per person
Booking and further information: info@westcoastbirdwatching.co.uk
