A magnificent image of wild dolphins at Malin Head is going viral.
Strabane photographer Gareth Wray is well-known for his incredible images of the north west coast. But even Gareth couldn’t believe his luck when he got this photo of three dolphins perfectly framed in front of Malin Head’s watch tower.
Gareth was on an expedition with the Amazing Grace Yacht Charters in Inishowen when he was treated to the amazing display. Getting the photo was a true challenge, however, as Gareth had to spend eight hours at sea for the perfect set-up.
Courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
Posting on Facebook, Gareth shared the story of the magical moment, saying that he never expected to see so many dolphins when he set out on a project for Failte Ireland. His brief was to capture scenes of wild dolphins in their natural habitat between Culdaff and Malin Head.
Dolphins often put on a show for guests on the Amazing Grace trips, but this time, Gareth and the crew were greeted by an entire pod.
He said: “Honesty I wasn’t expecting to see many dolphins. I had a lingering feeling that they may not even show up.
“How wrong was I, as within the first hour a dolphin suddenly appeared from the depths. Swimming alongside us, leaping into the air and flipping upside down to show us his white under belly. In dolphin language this is their way of saying hello. Soon afterwards I found myself surrounded by a pod of at least 20 dolphins who played with us for over an hour.”
Dolphins, Malin Head. Courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
Dolphins, Sea Arch, Malin Head. Courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
Gareth continues: “I captured many photos, however I still required a photo that showed the dolphins alongside a recognisable Inishowen landmark in one scene. This was very challenging and after 8 hours at sea, just as my time & energy levels were running low I heard Eddie the yacht’s captain shout “Gareth they’re jumping over there” I instantly zoomed in to the area he pointed towards and held my breath……. suddenly a family of dolphins leapt out of the water into mid air all at the same time.
“Finally I got my photo with mum, dad & baby dolphin joyfully leaping into the air with the old Watch Tower at Banba’s Crown & Malin Head in the background. I couldn’t be any happier and will never forget a single moment from this experience interacting with these friendly Donegal’s dolphins.”
Gareth’s images have been shared by Failte Ireland to showcase the beauty of Inishowen to people all over the world.
Twin Dolphins, Malin Head. Courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
