People travelling on ferries to Ireland this year should keep their eyes peeled for a humpback whale that was recently spotted in the Irish Sea.
Irish Ferries revealed that a young male was recently seen breaching clear of the water close to the Wexford coast.
The mammal was identified by researchers from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, who have been working with the ferry operator on a collaborative survey of whales, dolphins and porpoises.
Experts from the group travel on the Holyhead to Dublin and Pembroke to Rosslare ferry routes every month to conduct surveys.
Irish Ferries operates the services with the Ulysses and Isle of Inishmore vessels, which feature panoramic windows and outdoor areas that allow passengers to enjoy views of the Irish Sea during their journey.
Sightings of humpback whales are rare in the region but have become more common since the end of commercial whaling.
People planning to visit Ireland can also take ferries to Dublin from Holyhead with
Stena Line, or travel on the Fishguard to Rosslare ferry route.
Posted by Mark Robinson