Thar She Blows!

Ireland is one of the world's finest whale watching destinations, with Humpback and Minke's routinely spotted off the coast. This according to a recent feature in the Irish Times. Some 24 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises have been spotted in Ireland's waters. Its this variety and frequency of sightings that features Ireland prominently on the map for whale watching enthusiasts.

Should you wish to observe whales yourself, there are a number of commercial operators spread out across the West of Ireland, from Cape Clear to Tory Island. Some are more reputable than others. Among the very best is Nic Slocum, operator of Whale Watch West Cork, based in Union Hall. Nic holds a PHD in Zoology and is regarded as one of Ireland's leading authorities in whale migrations and behavior.

"Like most creatures, sex and food are the two main interests of whales," he told the Times. "The come to Ireland for the latter. Ireland provides feeding waters for herring and sprat. And with deep waters so close to shore greatly enhances the opportunity to view whales. Humpbacks and Minkes are the most common, though occasionally you might spot the almighty Fin Whale. Growing to a size of up to 23 meters, Fin whales make a massive splash when the breach the surface of Irish waters. They are a rare treat, even for someone as seasoned as Nic Slocum.

If you choose to embark on a whale watching adventure in Ireland, be advised there are no guarantees that your outing will culminate in a magnificent Discovery Channel moment. Though operators like Whale Watch West Cork deliver an impressive success rate estimated at more than 80 percent, if the whales don't make an appearance, there's certainly a wealth of other marine life to explore and interpret. No excursion onto the high sea is without surprise and wonder.