IFAW, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, runs a fascinating sailing vessel called Song of the Whale. The Principal of ABC Sailing, Rupert Emerson, was kindly invited on board by IFAW and it proved to be a fascinating visit.

The team on board are investigating marine mammals, using advanced sonar techniques to hear the distinctive noises of some wonderful creatures. Their current work with beaked whales, an enigmatic species, is revealing new data all the time.

Taking a co-operative approach to sensitive issues, Song of the Whale is finding out about the affects of engine noise from ships and will be out in the Western Approaches this spring before continuing on to the Canary Islands and Azores.

The outreach work done to educate is very inspiring and to hear of bus loads of African children coming to see the vessel was great. Visit www.ifaw.org to find out more.

Further updates, pictures and information will be on this page soon.