This 53-minute documentary explores a topic that is a particular source of anxiety amongst cruising sailors: encounters between orcas and sailing boats off the Atlantic coasts of Spain and Portugal, including the As YACHT has reported on several occasions.
Since the summer of 2020, there has been an increase in the number of sailing boats being pursued and attacked by orcas in the Strait of Gibraltar and along the Iberian Atlantic coast. The animals focus almost exclusively on the rudders, sometimes causing significant damage or destruction. As a result, several Yachts that have sunk. No people have been directly attacked so far.
Why do orcas attack boats?
The documentary presents various scientific theories; to this day, there is no clear explanation. Among other things, the film discusses learned social behaviour within the orca population, playful behaviour and reactions to stress. It also explains why experts deliberately use the term ‘interactions’ rather than ‘attacks’ in this context.
Orcas are regarded as sociable and intelligent animals that are capable of learning new behaviours. In some cases, they adopt behaviours from their fellow orcas and make them their own. The patterns of behaviour acquired within a population may also disappear again.
According to many researchers, the orca population off the Iberian Peninsula is under considerable pressure. The Strait of Gibraltar is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world. Added to this are underwater noise and competition with the fishing industry for tuna, one of the animals’ most important food sources.
Concerns amongst sailors
As well as scientists, the film also features interviews with sailors who have been affected. One of them is Martin Evans, whose boat was attacked by orcas. Evans talks about his experiences and the consequences the encounter had for him.
For cruising sailors planning a trip along the Portuguese or Spanish Atlantic coast, encounters with orcas have now become one of the most important safety issues. This guide provides background information and explains what is currently known about the animals’ behaviour. It also discusses how sailors should behave and why experts deliberately use the term ‘interactions’ rather than ‘attacks’.
TV recommendation
Anyone wishing to gain a better understanding of the reasons behind this unusual behaviour will find in “Watch out for orcas! Danger off Gibraltar?” A well-presented introduction to the current state of research, featuring impressive images.
- Title: Watch out for orcas! Danger off Gibraltar? (2023)
- Duration: 53 minutes
- Director: Anna Pflüger
- Origin: ZDF
- Available until 15 August 2026 in the arte media library
Here Let's watch the film!
You might also be interested in:
