Leg 32

10 July 2025

Leg 32

We’re on our way for the very last leg of the Darwin200 Global Voyage! We’re heading to Falmouth, the British coastal town where Charles Darwin completed his nearly five-year journey aboard the Beagle. Our own world voyage has, of course, been much shorter in duration, but after nearly two years of following in Darwin’s footsteps, it feels strange to be approaching the end of our long expedition.

Unfortunately, the wind wasn’t on our side for this first day at sea. There was only a light northerly breeze—later dying away completely—so sailing was not an option today. But luckily, there was still plenty to see on the water! Shortly after leaving Faial behind, we spotted a small pod of pilot whales. In the hours that followed, we saw a few dolphins, and in the afternoon, even three fin whales! We continued under engine across a glassy Atlantic, and the highlight of the day came just after dinner: in the distance, we saw dark shapes on the water. As we came closer, we realised it was two adult sperm whales and a calf, resting at the surface for several minutes. A truly special way to end our first day at sea.