The Ministry of Tourism is introducing measures to promote responsible dolphin and whale watching, as well as swimming with dolphins, while protecting marine life and improving safety for visitors and operators.
An Enforcement Squad, led by the Tourism Authority, has been established to monitor compliance with existing regulations and help safeguard cetaceans and other marine species.
The Tourism Authority will also conduct island-wide sensitisation sessions for pleasure craft operators and skippers. The sessions will focus on responsible practices when carrying out marine wildlife activities.
In addition, amendments to the Tourism Authority (Dolphin and Whale Watching) Regulations 2012 are planned. The changes will introduce more stringent requirements governing these activities.
Together, the measures aim to ensure that marine wildlife tourism is conducted responsibly, with greater attention to the wellbeing of animals and the safety and security of everyone involved.