4 January 2006
Whalers found, again
by Andrew, onboard the Esperanza
When Frank (captain) saw a big chunk of whitish whale flesh floating in the water it was our first sign we were once again catching up to the whalers. That was at 6:45 in the evening. Maybe fifteen minutes later, when Alain, looking through binoculars said it, "I see the Nisshin Maru", there were grins all around. But relieved laughter, shouts and applause didn't come until after Philster, and then Frank confirmed it. We had found them, again.It had been two days since we'd last seen the whaling fleet - giving them what was probably a full day's head start on us. Apparently, they chose to use it for whaling rather than running. Odd, given they had just travelled thousands of miles, and clearly want rid of us. Then again, they are likely behind on their quota now, and maybe just couldn't resist.
No telling how many whales they got while we were gone. We saw today's last one delivered, and seven being processed on the deck of the Nisshin Maru - a reminder of how efficient their operation can be.
Now it's a bit darker. Although at this time of the year you don't get true night here, it seems they have called it a day. Hard to say what the next will bring, but if it is more whaling then our boats and crew are ready to peacefully defend the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary.
Comments
I hope the Zodiac crews have great success blocking the harpoons from taking any more Minke whales' lives. The tactic of using water spray to hinder the gunner's view is a wonderful idea. I keep wondering how smoke canisters might work, sending up and out a dense stream of smoke. Would they be more effective, if only for shorter, critical periods?
Posted by: Eric at January 4, 2006 11:29 PM
hey , that may work as well , if not better ,, the smoke would turely be benificial if it is not to windy ,, and can be kept infront of the hunters ,, i have not any idea what resources the ships have to make a smoke blanket ,, Flares ??? doubtful ,, but hey i am thinking
i personaly , and with my attitude ,, would be dropping fishing nets on thier ships ,, but i am wheelchair bound ,, so getting into a ship would be impossable for me ,, and i would as well think dropping things from the air is a big no-no as well !! DRATS !!!
but the idea of a smoke screen ,,, now that is something ,,,, but Diesel is not a good idea,,, as it does not give out enough smoke nor thick enough !!! so that is out ,,
any smoke machines made somewhere ,other than smoke grenades ????
hey , like i say ,, i am thinking !!! at least that is a start !! ( i know a dangerous habit )
God be with the crew and ships ! may he be your guide !!
i am going to see if i can get the HAM radio links to working here , and try to reach the ships ,, if i can !!
73's and 88's to the whalesaviors !! keep the hunters on the ruin ,, and on the run !!
Denise Az
Posted by: Denise Crawford at January 5, 2006 9:38 AM
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