Seeing different types of seabirds can be exciting, but without understanding the difficulties of pelagic birding, finding seabirds can also be incredibly frustrating. With the right pelagic birding tips, however, it is possible to enjoy an productive oceangoing birding trip.

About Pelagic Birding Trips

Because pelagic birds spend their lives primarily out to sea, it is necessary to arrange a pelagic trip to spot them.

Different companies offer a range of tours, including bird-only trips as well as pelagic excursions combined with fishing or whale-watching. Some trips may be focused on specific itineraries, such as visiting a local bird nesting colony, but most are general tours in search of any pelagic birds. In addition to the birds, many pelagic tours also spot whales, dolphins, sea turtles and other marine life, and they are a great opportunity to learn more about oceanic wildlife.

Pelagic trips typically last from 5-8 hours or longer depending on the season, location, weather and availability of birds and other marine life. The cost of the tours will also vary from $30-300 or higher based on date, number of participants, type of tour, length and other factors. Some tours will offer a beginners' workshop for pelagic bird identification prior to the trip, while others provide multiple guides on board the boat.

Choosing a Pelagic Tour

Birders who are not used to pelagic trips should take great care when selecting a tour.

Consider…

• Length: A longer tour offers more opportunities for finding different seabirds further from shore, but it can also be more uncomfortable for birders unaccustomed to marathon birding.
  
  
• Boat: A larger boat may be better equipped and is generally more stable in open waters, but it can also accommodate a larger crowd which leads to a less intimate experience.
  
  
• Tour History: Experienced operators will understand birders' needs and work to provide the best oceanic birding possible.
  
  
• Bird Lists: Many tour operators run seasonal voyages with similar itineraries year after year. Check sighting lists from previous trips to get an idea of what birds are likely to be seen.
  
  
• Guides: Most pelagic birding tours are led by an expert guide who is well able to identify the most likely seabirds. Larger tours may offer multiple guides, which gives the group "extra eyes" for spotting and identifying birds.
  
  
• Provisions: Some pelagic tours are very bare bones and require participants to provide all their own equipment, snacks, water and other gear. Other tours offer some basic amenities as part of their package, though their prices may be higher accordingly.
  
  
• Activities: Fishing and whale watching are common activities to combine with a pelagic birding trip, but some birders prefer trips that focus on birding alone.

Equipment for Pelagic Birding

No matter how good a pelagic birding trip may be, a poorly equipped birder will not have a good experience. It is important to always check a tour operator's guidelines and suggestions for equipment, and birders should be prepared with…

• Optics: Birding binoculars are essential for pelagic tours, since the birds will not always oblige boats by coming close for good views. Choose binoculars with waterproof casings and bring along a cleaning pen or cloth to wipe off sea spray. Spotting scopes are not typically permitted on pelagic tours since a scope's tripod takes up valuable space on the boat, and most birders prefer not to risk an expensive scope in what may be rough waters.
  
  
• Field Guide: A general field guide for the appropriate region will usually include information on most pelagic species, but for longer, more intense tours a guide specializing on seabirds may be more appropriate.
  
  
• Clothing: Dressing in layers is recommended for pelagic tours in any season, and both hats and gloves are strongly suggested as well. Waterproof footwear with good tread is essential, and a rainsuit or jacket is helpful. Because of windy conditions, ponchos may not be permitted or they may be required to be secured with a belt.
  
  
• Sun Accessories: Bright sunlight reflecting off endless water can be painful, and strong sunglasses are good for pelagic birding. Waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF is also recommended.
  
  
• Water and Snacks: Most pelagic boats lack galley facilities and tour participants should bring their own water and snacks. Bring easy to eat items that do not require heating or silverware, and keep trash minimized.
  
  
• Camera: A digital camera with a strong zoom or telephoto lens is best. Look for cameras with automatic image stabilization and bring along extra batteries, memory cards and a waterproof case or plastic bag to protect the equipment.
  
  
• Seat Cushion: Many small boats only have hard wooden seats and a long tour can be uncomfortable. Bringing along a plastic cushion can make the tour much more enjoyable.

Dealing With Seasickness

Both novice and experienced birders may have difficulty with seasickness on a pelagic birding tour. The best prevention for seasickness is a good night's sleep before the trip, but there are other steps that can help minimize the risk of nausea.

• Eat a healthy breakfast the morning of the trip.
• Avoid alcohol or greasy food a day or two prior to the trip.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Have a healthy attitude and focus on the birds rather than how you feel.
• Breathe deeply and stay in the fresh air to stave off nausea.

Medications such as Dramamine and Bonine can also be effective against seasickness, and homeopathic remedies such as ginger or peppermint may be effective for some birders.

Tips for Pelagic Birding

To make the most of a pelagic birding trip, whether it is your first or one of many you've enjoyed…

• Choose a pelagic company with the proper experience for your expectations.
• Be properly equipped for the weather and ocean conditions.
• Stay alert on board the boat to notice more birds and marine life.
• Check flocks of seabirds thoroughly to spot unusual species.
• Note field marks, sizes and behaviors of birds carefully for proper identification.

A pelagic birding trip can be a fantastic experience, and birders who know what to expect and how to prepare for the trip will enjoy both the boat and the birds much more.

Photo – Humpback Whale Breach © Kevin Galens