Protecting Marine Wildlife

The current Marine and Coastal Wildlife Code applies to England. It advises motorised craft to stay at least 100 metres from marine wildlife, remain below 6 knots at no-wake speed, move farther away when disturbance is seen and keep clear when more than two craft are already nearby. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland publish their own guidance, and a local authority or protected site can add a different or stricter measure.

If dolphins, whales or porpoises choose to approach, maintain a steady speed and direction and let them end the encounter. Do not chase, crowd, encircle, feed or intercept wildlife for a better view. Head-on or close astern approaches reduce the animal's room to choose. Sudden course or speed changes can also increase collision or propeller risk.

An MCZ or SAC identifies protected features and a management framework; it does not itself tell the skipper that every activity is banned or allowed. MMO byelaws can control anchoring, vessel speed, entry, seabed disturbance, particular activities, zones or seasons at named sites. Check the current measure, chart, local notice and signs for the actual place.