Γνωρίστε τη φύση

Greece has an amazing array of marine wildlife, and while sailing you may come across some of the extraordinary creatures that live here, including seabirds, seals, dolphins, turtles and even whales!  Whilst it might be tempting to get a little closer to them, remember that marine wildlife is just that - wild. Encounters with boats can be dangerous or deadly for these beautiful creatures, so sailors need to keep disturbance to a minimum, which will also keep you and your boat safe.  

REPORT YOUR SIGHTINGS!

If you come across dolphins, turtles or seals, support organisations working to study and protect them by alerting them to their location. Where possible, take photos and videos from a safe distance and upload with information on your exact location, date and time to research organisation Ionian Dolphin Project using the link on this page.

If you see an injured sea turtle immediately call: +30 6941511511

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

• Try to maintain a distance of around 100m from wildlife in and on the water or on beaches where they might be feeding, resting or breeding. NEVER chase wildlife or steer your boat towards them. Use binoculars to observe the birds or animals - if you don’t need binoculars to see them you’re probably too close!
• If you see wildlife while under motor, slow down and if safe to do so put your engine in neutral.
• Dolphins do sometimes like to come and swim by boats – in this case keep a steady course as changes in direction will make it difficult for them to predict which way to go to avoid your boat.
• Don’t go ashore to caves or beaches with your tender or paddleboard if you see seals resting, and do not swim or snorkel in the area.
• Limit your viewing time to 30 minutes. If another boat is already viewing, wait your turn and don’t crowd the animal. Be careful not to trap the animal between your boat, other boats and the shore. If the animal exhibits behaviours that show it is stressed (erratic swimming pattern, aggressive behaviour, prolonged diving), move slowly away from the area.
• Do not feed, touch or swim with dolphins, seals or turtles – they are wild animals and are better left undisturbed.
• Do not steer into rafting birds (large groups on the water) as breaking up rafts can make birds more vulnerable to predators and use up their energy.
• Do not make excessive noise, use flash photography or operate drones near or over animals as it will disturb them.