Dolphins Gracefully Swim Alongside Vessel in Maltese Waters

A mesmerising sight of dolphins swimming alongside a vessel in Maltese waters has captivated viewers, thanks to a video sent to Malta Daily. In the footage, a pod of dolphins is seen elegantly gliding alongside the vessel as passengers watched in awe.

While the spectacle was enchanting, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of these creatures. The Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Contiguous Atlantic Area has issued several conditions for interactions with cetaceans:

Vessels and aircraft should not disrupt the normal movement or behavior of cetaceans.

Contact with cetaceans should cease if they show signs of disturbance or alarm.

No cetacean should be separated from its group.

Rubbish or food should not be thrown near or around cetaceans.

Vessels should avoid sudden or repeated changes in speed or direction, except in emergencies.

When stopping to watch cetaceans, engines should be placed in neutral.

Aircraft should not fly below 183 meters (600 feet) above sea level.

Vessels should not intentionally approach within 100 meters of a cetacean or cut off its path.

Cetaceans should not be prevented from leaving the vicinity of the vessel.

Vessels within 300 meters of cetaceans should move at a constant speed no faster than 5 knots, stopping if within 100 meters.

Departure from the vicinity should be slow until at least 300 meters away.

Aircraft should avoid casting shadows on cetaceans.

Only one vessel or aircraft should be in the watching area at a time, limited to 15 minutes for vessels or 2 minutes for aircraft.

Vessels should approach cetaceans diagonally from the side.

Activities such as swimming with cetaceans should be forbidden or strictly regulated.

Cetaceans should not be disturbed or harassed in any way.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure the protection and conservation of cetaceans while enjoying their breathtaking presence in our waters.

#MaltaDaily