A lot of sensational stuff has been written recently in the mainstream media about orcas attacking yachts. However, beyond the hyperbole, there are genuine reasons to be concerned about this worrying new phenomena whereby killer whales seem to zone in on small yachts and attack them – generally targeting the rudder. So far four yachts have sunk due to orca interactions. Perhaps this situation affects your plans or trips to Spain and Portugal too?
Each skipper is responsible for their boat and crew and must balance the risks and pleasures of a trip. In case of the orcas, this has been made especially confusing by different authorities, giving opposing advice. On the one hand, The Atlantic Orca Working Group, or GTOA, advises sailors to slow down and stop the engine, if confronted by orcas (see https://www.orcaiberica.org/en/recomendaciones). Orcas Spain & Portugal, or orcas.pt, on the other hand, recommends sailors to follow the 20m depth contour line and to flee from orcas as fast as possible towards shallower water, when encountered (see https://www.orcas.pt/orcasdosanddonts).
Amidst the horror stories in the press and the lack of a clear picture of what is going on, it’s sometimes difficult to make an objective assessment on taking a voyage in this area. Having made the voyage and followed the recommendations and advice of various parties, I therefore thought it would be good to share my experience and knowledge. The following is my account of a trip made in the summer of 2023 from The Netherlands to Gibraltar, during orca-migration-season.
