The 2025 season will definitely be remembered as the year of the whales. It culminated on July 10 with a sighting that drew the attention of the entire press to the biodiversity of the Important Marine Mammal Area Waters of Ischia and Ventotene. A pod of fin whales (Baleanoptera physalus) of this size had never been recorded in 35 years of observations.
During the sighting, thanks to the collaboration with the Regno di Nettuno Marine Protected Area (MPA) and the Coast Guard of Ischia, it was possible to identify a dozen of these majestic cetaceans; meanwhile, checks continue on over 3,000 photographs and dozens of videos.
The largest aggregations of fin whales in the study area were recorded in the period 1996-1998 in the waters corresponding to zone D of the AMP's marine mammal protection area. In those years, it was possible to document a maximum of six individuals together, engaged in feeding activities.
On July 10, the sighting began with two fin whales off the port of Ischia. Then, other specimens joined in and started following a northwesterly course, skirting the harbors of Ischia, Casamicciola, and Lacco Ameno less than a kilometer away. Although the fin whale is described as a cetacean that lives in the pelagic (high seas) environment, in the waters of Ischia and the Gulf of Naples, it is not uncommon to spot them near the coast.
During their route, the individuals observed did not show signs of malnutrition and were engaged in feeding activities. Wisely, the whales would dive as large boats approached, then resurface when the danger had passed. In contrast, they spontaneously socialized with Jean Gab, our research vessel, escorting us up close with breathtaking beauty.
Weighing 80 tons, minke whales are the second-largest animal on the planet. The Mediterranean fin whale subpopulation is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Let's protect and give a voice to these cetaceans, who have inhabited these waters forever, yet currently have no rights.