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Code Of Conduct

Dingle Sea Safari is a “RESPONSIBLE” whale and dolphin watch operator who strongly adheres to the statutory guidelines.

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How We operate

Code of Conduct Development

Following many years of whale and dolphin watching from boats we believe these guidelines to be insufficient at the species level. Dingle Sea Safari Ltd has conducted an assessment of both statutory and voluntary guidelines and codes of conduct around the globe and reviewed the findings of our own research.

As a result we have developed a Code of Conduct that incorporates the Irish statutory guidelines as set out in Marine Notice 15 of 2005 but also includes that which we judge to be a minimum requirement for the interaction of boats and cetaceans at the species level in Irish waters. As we gather more information and make further conclusions from our research we will adjust our Code of Conduct accordingly. 

Code of Conduct for Recreational and Commercial Boats when Interacting with Cetaceans in Irish Waters 

01

When whales or dolphins are first encountered, craft should maintain a steady course 

When practical stop the vessel or assume a “no wake speed” to determine whether they are feeding, travelling or prospecting for food. Assess what direction they may be moving in. Never cross the path of cetaceans attempting to cut them off or anticipate their moves. This applies to all species encountered. Never approach animals at 90 degrees to individual animals or groups or head on or directly from behind. This applies to all species. Common and bottlenose dolphins will however, frequently approach boats of their own volition from a head on position and boats should be brought to a standstill until they have engaged. 

02

Boat interactions: Slow speed, minimum propeller revolutions, gradual departures from cetaceans

We recommend all boat interactions with cetaceans to be carried out at tick over or “no wake” speed or less. A “no wake speed” is usually around 4 knots. Ensure propeller revolutions are reduced to a minimum. This is very important with unguarded propellers. Particularly important when some dolphin species engage the boat. <br>When leaving the field of interaction to a distance of at least 400 meters boat speeds should be no more than 5 knots. NEVER make rapid accelerations TOWARDS or AWAY from cetaceans however far away they may be. 

03

Never pursue marine mammals; avoid splitting groups; remain stationary

Marine mammals should NEVER be pursued under ANY circumstances. This applies to ALL species. Never split up groups of cetaceans. If you find yourself inadvertently in this position stop the boat and remain stationary with engine ticking over until the animals have moved away. This applies to all species. 

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