Wildlife protection code trialled for Cork and Kerry coasts

The new code of conduct is a conservation project of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, Ireland’s first marine national park

Marine tourism, which largely began with the Dingle dolphin Fungi 40 years ago, has grown enormously in recent decades. Picture: Domnick Walsh

Wildlife boat tour operators along the Cork and Kerry coasts are being asked to keep their distance from whales, dolphins, and seabirds, under a new code of conduct being trialled.

The voluntary code for “responsible marine wildlife watching” has been drawn up in consultation with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) and other operators, and was launched by the National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) in Dingle.

It is a conservation project of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, Ireland’s first marine national park.

Marine tourism, which largely began with the Dingle dolphin Fungi 40 years ago, has grown enormously in recent decades.

Kerry alone now has upwards of 25 tour operators - some with multiple boats - along the southwest coast.

Launching the pilot project in Dingle, where he met with tour operators, naure and biodiversity minister Christopher O’Sullivan said the aim was to avoid harmful disturbance to sensitive wildlife and to encourage sustainable and responsible tourism operations off the Cork and Kerry coast.

The code includes guidance to minimise and eliminate disturbance during wildlife watching activities. It includes recommended speeds, distances, and time limits when observing particular species from boat tours. It describes the behaviours of these species under disturbance.

“The whale watching off the southwest coast can be world-class. Encounters with ocean giants like fin whales and humpback whales aren’t unusual, and there’s also a chance to see other species like basking sharks and grey seals. 

"But with the growth in eco-tourism and wildlife tourism, it’s important that we emphasise how this can be done responsibly. The code of conduct I’m launching today strikes a balance between delivering world-class wildlife experiences on the water while also ensuring that the species themselves are protected, “ Mr O'Sullivan said.

Marine tourism is essential to the local economy, particularly during the summer months, he said.

The code is the result of an extensive consultation process with tour operators in the southwest region and is based on the latest scientific research.

It set out best practice in relation to species found off the Cork and Kerry coastlines, including whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, basking shark and turtles. Examples of activities that may disturb them include noise, the presence of vessels and personal watercraft, the irresponsible use of drones, and visitor pressure.

“Simple actions can have a huge impact on the safety and future of these species – such as keeping our distance, especially during breeding season, and being vigilant for signs of disturbance. While the code has been developed with tour operators, it can be put into practice by all of us who love to watch wildlife – whether in Baltimore or around the Blaskets," the minister said.

There will be further consultation after the pilot phase. There had been positive engagement, and the NPWS would encourage tour operators “to sign up to the code and play their part in protecting our unique wildlife", NPWS director general Niall Ó Donnchú said.