People urged to follow Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code

Boat owners who sail too close to whales, dolphins and other cetaceans in the Moray Firth could face criminal charges and fines. The warning along with the launch of a poster campaign came after an increase in the number of incidents involving the mammals in the waters off Inverness. Reports of boats and kite surfers getting too close to whales and dolphins have been received. Police Scotland and partner agencies have urged people out in boats and enjoying other sporting activities to respect the marine wildlife off Scotland's coast. 

Whales, dolphins and porpoises are protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994. This includes protection from disturbance  either reckless or deliberate, harassment, killing and injury, with offences subject to a fine of up to £5000. Marine wildlife agencies have strongly recommend that people follow the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code and that we are all aware that when we’re on the water we’re sharing that space with whales, dolphins and other marine mammals for whom the sea is their home.