It is undeniable that yachting has a substantial impact on the global waters in which it operates.
Within such waters is a vast world below the surface that belongs to a whole array of various marine life and species. From physical strikes to pollution and the effects of noise, the industry has a significant footprint both above and below the oceans. But, as the industry evolves, it’s time to challenge our assumptions about our impact on such marine ecosystems and question whether we are doing enough to protect the vast world beneath the hulls.
Physical impacts and mammal rebellions
A recent and increasing issue making the headlines is when yachts come into physical contact with marine animals, particularly whales. A rising number of incidents in the Strait of Gibraltar involving orcas interacting with yachts have drawn attention. In some cases, these encounters have involved violent orcas ramming and sinking boats. Are these acts of aggression, or are we witnessing something more complex?
While some scientists speculate these interactions remain playful, enabled by recovering tuna populations, others suggest these interactions may be a form of protection against human encroachment. Whatever the cause, we must remember that the yachting community is a guest in their habitat, and as an industry, we must remain mindful of such potential impacts.
Hidden dangers of sonar technology
A less widely known issue when it comes to marine life but equally important is sonar technology’s impact on cetacean populations, particularly dolphins. While yachts have long used technology as a cornerstone of navigation, there may be a trade-off regarding marine life.
Research shows that sonar can interfere with basic biological functions such as mating and feeding. The sound can cause mammals to change course or depth to escape the noise rapidly. In some extreme cases, these mammals have even beached themselves to avoid sonar exposure. For yachts, introducing more environmentally conscious sonar technology is crucial, such as those using frequencies that have minimal impact on marine life while still being able to detect them in a yacht’s path, allowing for safer navigation and protection of the marine life.
A pressing plastic issue
Marine pollution continues to be one of the most pressing environmental issues, encompassing ocean acidification, eutrophication, noise pollution, toxins, and plastic waste. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is twice the size of Texas, holds more plastic than fish, with a staggering six pieces of plastic for every one piece of marine life. The prediction made by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the World Economic Forum in the ‘New Plastics Economy’ report first published in 2019 predicts that by 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.
While yachting isn’t solely responsible, and it is hard to quantify such impact, we must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough to be part of the solution rather than contributing to the problem? The industry is well placed to play a prominent role in the solutions, starting by adopting more sustainable practices, from waste management to water filtration systems and eco-friendly products.
Noise pollution is another issue to consider. Research by the Heriot-Watt University of Life and Earth Sciences in Edinburgh – conducted during the 2021 Americas Cup – found that noise from large groups of spectator boats caused stress, forcing marine life to leave natural habitats. This highlights the need for noise reduction technologies and better planning when it comes to large-scale events and regattas.
Changing climate and course
Undeniably, climate change is profoundly impacting migratory species, affecting breeding patterns, migration, and food sources. Warmer waters and changing ocean currents have also impacted marine life. Species like turtles, which help control jellyfish populations, are migrating less, leading to an overpopulation of jellyfish.
For yachts, this should mean adapting to changing conditions and supporting the protection of migratory corridors. Many of these species, such as whales and sea turtles, are protected under intentional agreements, such as the Conservation of Migratory UN Treaty.
Leading the charge
The future of yachting doesn’t have to be at odds with marine conservation; there are movements that are moving in the right direction. As unique platforms to contribute to scientific endeavours, yachts can facilitate direct involvement in conservation research or by supporting marine protection organisations. Programmes from those like SeaKeepers are at the forefront of yacht-driven science, with scientist-led expeditions helping collect crucial data that is currently lacking. Another organisation, Yachts for Science, acts as a matchmaker – connecting yacht owners and operators with scientific research projects.
When it comes to protecting specific areas, some initiatives have already been introduced, such as the protection of Posidonia seagrass. Critical to the Mediterranean’s marine ecosystem, Posidonia seagrass meadows are negatively impacted by recreational yachting – especially during anchoring procedures. There are a few projects that are helping to combat this. Within the Balearics, the ‘Posidonia Maps’ app, initiated in Formentera, maps the protected meadows, enabling Captains to steer clear of protected areas and anchor elsewhere.
In the French Riviera and Corsica, yachts over 24 metres are prohibited from anchoring in the protected seagrass area due to newly implemented legal regulations. If yachts fail to adhere, there are a series of penalties to preserve the seagrass development. Another digital tool for the yachting industry to avoid these anchoring areas is ‘DONIA’, mapping out sensitive and fragile ecosystems.
Meanwhile, the Water Revolution Foundation’s IMMA programme is pioneering the identification of critical mammal habitats in the North Atlantic – a common ground for yachts crossing cruising seasons. This initiative aims to support the restoration of the balance of marine life in the ocean by prioritising areas for conservation action, and the crowdfunding campaign is an opportunity for the sector to step up and get involved.
Practical measures
Other solutions in our reach are more achievable than some may think to reduce our impact on marine life. By implementing speed restrictions in marine-rich areas, we can dramatically reduce the risk of disrupting life, and when combined with advanced noise reduction technologies, these measures can create safer routes. The establishment of protected zones for fragile ecosystems, supported by environmental impact assessments and digital tools, will also provide a further framework for coexistence between yachting and marine life.
But perhaps the most crucial question is are we ready to reimagine our relationship with the oceans? As visitors to the world’s waters, the yachting community has both the privilege and responsibility to begin and push for a conservation-led change.
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Author: Malcolm Moss | CEO & Founder of SEA Yacht Group
