Spotting whales and dolphins in the wild can be an unforgettable experience. But did you know that disturbing them is illegal?

Here’s how you can enjoy your time on the water while protecting these incredible animals.

 - Keep your distance – never try to get close, especially if there are young calves.
 - Avoid sudden movements – don’t chase, circle, or cut across their path.
 - Avoid repeated visits – if animals have already spent time near vessels, give them a break.
 - Limit your time – watching for 15 minutes or less helps reduce stress on the animals.
 - Never swim with, touch, or feed dolphins – this is harmful.
 

Stay within the law – and protect marine life.

Disturbing whales, dolphins or porpoises is an offence, whether intentional or not. If you witness reckless or deliberate disturbance, don’t intervene directly – instead, report it:

Call 101 and let the operator know you are reporting a wildlife crime. 
Include as many details as possible:

 - Date, time, and exact location of the incident
 - Behaviour of the vessels and animals before, during, and after
 - The species involved (if known)
 - How long the interaction lasted
 - Any identifying details: boat name, registration, or appearance of individuals involved

If it’s safe to do so, capture photos or video of the disturbance. Footage showing both the animals’ behaviour and the vessel from different angles can be especially useful.
 

By following this guidance, you help protect whales and dolphins – and ensure everyone can enjoy these magical encounters for generations to come.