Boaters Urged to Protect Wildlife Along Cornwall’s Coast: Essential Tips for a Safe Summer on the Water

As summer arrives and boating enthusiasts take to Cornwall’s scenic coastline, there’s an important message to keep in mind: protecting marine wildlife is everyone’s responsibility. The Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust is urging powered craft operators to be mindful of the many creatures and plants sharing the waters with them.

Powered Craft Guidelines

For those on powered craft, the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust offers the following guidelines to minimise disturbance to seals and other marine life:

• To Avoid Close Encounters: Never deliberately seek encounters with seals. Ideally choose a Wildlife Safe Scheme  (WiSe) Operator.
• Safety of Seals on Rocky Ledges: Seals high up on rocky ledges are particularly vulnerable to injury if they are startled. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial.
• Binoculars and Zoom Cameras: Ensure everyone on board has binoculars or a zoom camera to enjoy viewing seals from a safe distance without approaching them.
• Slow Down at 300m+: When approaching within 300 metres of seals, slow down and check their positions. Brief everyone on board to remain still and quiet to avoid causing any disturbance.
• No-Wake Speed at 200m+: From 200 metres onwards, keep moving at a no-wake speed to reduce the chance of disturbing the seals.
• Watch for Signs of Distress: Observe the seals’ reactions closely. If they start to look in your direction, it’s a signal to move further away.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Stay at least 100 metres away from seals, keeping your craft side-on and moving slowly in a single pass to minimise stress.
• Handling Large Groups: If there are large numbers of seals, it’s important to stay even further away. Boaters should take turns, ensuring that no more than three vessels are present at any one time.
• Safe Zones for Water Activities: For those enjoying ‘in water’ activities like swimming or kayaking, maintain a distance of at least 200 metres from known seal areas, especially where seals are hauled out.

Respect the Wildlife

These guidelines are designed to ensure that both boaters and seals can enjoy the coastline without risk of harm. By following these simple steps, you can help protect the seals and other marine wildlife, allowing everyone to share the beauty of Cornwall’s coast responsibly.

Stay Informed

For further information on how to enjoy the coastal waters responsibly, the Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust provides detailed guidelines on their website. Their leaflet, “Enjoy, Respect, Protect,” offers additional tips and advice to ensure that your time on the water is both enjoyable and safe for the local wildlife.

By adhering to these guidelines, boaters can help ensure that Cornwall’s coastline remains a safe haven for its diverse marine life while still enjoying the natural beauty the area has to offer.