In September 2020, I wrote an article about Fungie, the Dingle Dolphin, who made his home in the harbor of Dingle, Ireland, in 1983. He was a longtime resident of the harbor and delighted people for nearly 40 years by riding in the wakes of tour boats, spinning, jumping, and delighting tourists and locals alike. The lone dolphin has not been seen since Oct. 15, and the residents of Dingle are heartbroken.

Fungi was as much a part of the town as the quirky pubs, the cliffs, and the unpredictable weather. He never disappeared for more than a few hours at a time. In a year that has already taken so much from so many people, the disappearance of Fungie is a heartfelt blow to the town of Dingle. He made the town famous and the thousands of tourists who took Fungie boat trips each year were an important part of the local economy.

“He has disappeared just as he appeared,” says Suzanne Massett, one of the Dingle locals who swam regularly with Fungie. “His mystery and magic go on.” It seems fitting that the title to the old Scottish tune, Auld Lang Syne, should be the title of this article. “Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet for days of auld lang syne.” Here’s to Fungie!

Capt. Cathy Eagle has spent over 40 years boating in our local waters. As a professional charter captain she specializes in dolphin and nature tours. Visit CaptainCathy.com or call 239 994-2572.