Code of Conduct

Maintain forward progress at a slow steady speed throughout a trip to reduce the risk of collisions, harassment and noise disturbance.

Follow an agreed route within the area of operation without stops or deviations except for safety reasons - marine mammals are more likely to become accustomed to predictable boat noise and behaviour.

Always slow down gradually to the no-wake speed if marine mammals appear directly ahead. Once clear of the animals, slowly resume cruising speed. If marine mammals or cetaceans approach the boat or bow-ride, maintain a slow cruising speed to reduce acoustic disturbance and to avoid collisions or the breaking up of groups; to avoid disturbance from sudden changes of speed or direction.

Dispose of fuel, oil, litter and other contaminants in the appropriate containers on shore to avoid additional marine pollution.

For your safety and theirs, do not allow passengers or crew to swim with, touch or feed any marine mammals - remember, these are wild animals. Swimming with or touching cetaceans or seals may be dangerous; infections can be passed between marine mammals and humans. Feeding these animals may alter their behaviour.

Boat Operators

Several boat operators including NorthCoast Marine Adventures, who run marine mammal watching trips have agreed to observe a code of conduct, see sidebar.

Marine Protection

Marine mammals are protected by UK and European legislation. If you see anyone deliberately harassing or harming any marine mammal, please inform the police.

Observations

	Orca Three Orca were spotted passing through the Firth in June, but we didn't see them, unfortunately. They were probably attracted by the thousands of nice juicy seals.......
	Dolphins We had quite a few dolphins in Summer 2000, including a pod of Risso's dolphins just outside John o'Groats Harbour. They fished away quite unconcerned a few metres from the boat. Brilliant!!