At Club Nàutic Estartit, we are firmly committed to protecting the environment and conserving marine biodiversity. As part of our sustainability initiatives, we regularly promote and disseminate responsible practices among our members and visitors to ensure that our nautical activities are conducted in a respectful and conscientious manner towards the marine environment.

The Mediterranean is home to a great diversity of cetaceans, turtles, and sharks that are essential for the balance of the ecosystem. However, many of these species are severely threatened due to human activities. Therefore, we provide you with some tips from Oceanogràfic to improve the conservation of these species and their natural habitat.

What to do if you find a marine animal in distress?

If you come across a marine animal in distress, injured, or even deceased while navigating, your cooperation is crucial. By calling 112, you activate the Stranding Network of the Valencian Community, which will coordinate the necessary response. It is important not to attempt to help the animal directly, as it could endanger your life and worsen the animal’s situation. Maintain a distance, do not feed or handle it, and wait for instructions from the rescue technicians.

Additionally, it is vital to record as much information as possible, such as photos, videos, the time, location, and behavior of the animal, to provide accurate data to the rescue technicians. This information is essential for the conservation of marine biodiversity.

Good environmental practices in the Port

In the port, it is essential to manage solid and liquid waste responsibly. Solid waste should be stored and disposed of in designated areas, while liquid waste, such as bilge water, should be managed at the port’s clean points. Preventing leaks and handling oils and hydrocarbons carefully is crucial to avoid water contamination, which is highly toxic to marine fauna.

For gray water generated on the vessel, use phosphate-free detergents and biodegradable, solvent-free cleaning products. Boat repair and maintenance operations should be limited to designated areas to prevent toxic substances from entering the marine environment. Using tin-free antifouling paint is also a recommended practice.

Good environmental practices onboard

Do not throw waste into the sea, as it can injure, intoxicate, or cause suffocation to marine fauna. Respect anchoring restrictions, using buoys whenever possible, and avoid seagrass meadows, such as Posidonia oceanica, which are breeding and refuge areas for marine fauna.

Moderate the speed of the vessel and avoid sudden changes in direction and speed to reduce noise pollution and the risk of collisions with marine fauna. Know and respect the regulations of activities in protected marine areas and practice aquatic activities sustainably and respectfully towards marine life. Do not feed, disturb, touch, or collect marine animals and plants.

Good practices for marine wildlife sightings

In case of marine wildlife sightings, maintain a safe distance and avoid any physical contact with cetaceans. Do not feed the animals or throw waste into the water. It is essential to allow the animals to move freely and not interfere with their trajectory. Additionally, avoid making noises and sounds to attract or repel the animals.

We invite you to join our efforts to protect and conserve the precious marine environment that surrounds us, ensuring that our activities are not only enjoyable but also respectful and sustainable. Together, we can make a difference in the conservation of marine biodiversity!