🐢 Protecting Greek Wildlife

Sailors have a duty to protect and support marine wildlife while sailing in Greece: here we share some essential tips for when you come across them, and how to report sightings to support conservation

Did you know the waters we love to sail in Greece are home to the incredible Caretta caretta loggerhead turtle — one of the oldestcreatures on the planet, with ancestors dating back over 100 million years?

Alongside turtles, Greek seas are also home to dolphins, Mediterranean monk seals, whales, seabirds and an extraordinary variety of marine life.

Greece hosts some of the Mediterranean’s most important remaining marine wildlife populations — including around 60% of all loggerhead turtle nests in the region. From late April through summer, turtles return to the same beaches where they were born to mate and nest, while hatchlings emerge between June and October.

While sailing in Greece, you may be lucky enough to encounter these beautiful animals in their natural environment. Dolphins, turtles and seals rely on calm seas to rest, communicate and feed. So our wildlife encounters should always happen on their terms — quietly, respectfully and from a safe distance.

⚓ Good practices when sailing near wildlife:
• Maintain at least 100m distance from dolphins and seals
• Slow down and keep a steady course
• Never chase animals or steer towards them
• Avoid turtle nesting beaches and monk seal caves
• Never feed, touch or swim with wildlife
• Reduce noise, avoid flash photography and drones
• If under motor, slow down immediately when spotting wildlife

You can also help protect them by becoming a citizen scientist — sharing information on sightings of turtles, dolphins and seals helps conservation organisations better understand and protect marine life in Greece. It is easy to do, just follow this link.

🚨 And if you see an injured sea turtle: immediately call ARCHELON: +30 6941511511

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🎥 Want to know more? Watch our short video “Protect Wildlife” on our YouTube channel

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For more information on the amazing work being done by ARCHELON to protect turtles and how you can support please see their website.

#WorldTurtleDay #RespectMarineLife #SustainableSailing#SailingGreece #OceanConservation #ProtectWildlife #CarettaCaretta#MediterraneanSea #EcoTravel #MarineLife #SlowTravel #VisitGreece

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