Insights on Dolphin Watch on Boat Tours
Two days ago, we had the opportunity to meet with Thalia d Haas of the Marine Mammals Research Association and Montenegro Dolphin Research Project. We discussed the potential for developing responsible and sustainable practices for dolphin watching on boat tours in the Bay of Kotor.
Thalia provided valuable information for boat operators to incorporate into their tourist offerings and raised awareness of the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures.
Threats Facing Marine Mammals in Kotor Bay
Thalia highlighted several threats facing marine mammals in the Bay of Kotor, including pollution, overfishing, and human activity. Ghost nets and plastic waste are a particularly pressing issue, as well as noise and boat speed.
In recent years, the number of dolphin pods in the Bay of Kotor has drastically declined, with only two pods of about five individuals present. Thalia also highlighted that despite their fish consumption, dolphins do not pose a significant threat to the fishing industry, single adult only eats about 5kg of fish a day.
Dolphins Having Fun: Bow Riding
Dolphins have been observed riding the bow waves of boats, a behavior known as “bow riding.” This is considered a form of play or exploration for the dolphins.
The pressure waves created by the boat’s movement through the water can create a sort of “moving current” for the dolphins to swim in, making it easier for them to move through the water.
Additionally, the dolphins may be attracted to the boat because it represents a new and exciting object in their environment. Some people also believe they do it to get a free ride or a push. They can also be drawn to the boats by the fish attracted to the boats or by the humans on the boats.
Tips for Responsible Dolphin Watching on Boat Tours
She also provided tips for boat operators on how to act responsibly when encountering dolphins on their tours. These include maintaining a steady and predictable speed, slowly slowing down and approaching dolphins at a distance of 50m, and avoiding being pushy or driving straight toward a pod.
Additionally, Thalia stressed the importance of understanding that dolphins are stubborn creatures, and one cannot attract them by any means.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thalia’s insights shed light on the importance of protecting marine mammals in the Bay of Kotor and the role we, as boat operators and tourists, can play in this conservation effort. By incorporating sustainable practices and understanding dolphin behavior, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy these magnificent creatures in the wild.
It is also worth noting that DMAD offers informal training with boaters on how to act in the presence of dolphins.
It is recommended to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about interacting with these animals responsibly.
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