Iris LAIGLE - Intern
Mauritius is considered a paradise for many tourists, and rightly so: white sandy beaches, palm trees, lush vegetation, turquoise waters… One of the most highly touted experiences is that of observing large cetaceans (whales, sperm whales) from a boat – or even swimming with them. This promise is omnipresent, on Instagram, TikTok or websites. However therein lies a major problem: today, these activities are highly regulated, and in some cases even illegal.
1. Whale watching by boat in Mauritius: what the law says... and the reality on the ground
In Mauritius, whale watching by boat is possible provided that strict rules are respected. Operators must be licensed, and maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters. The approach must be parallel to the whales, silent and non-intrusive. Only one boat at a time is allowed near a group of cetaceans.
However in reality, many operators do not respect these rules. Sometimes, there are too many boats around the same animal, some get too close, and some even cut their engine suddenly to “jump on the opportunity”. These practices disturb the cetaceans, which may flee or modify their behavior. The chronic stress caused can even have an impact on their reproduction or cause them to change their migratory route.
2. Swimming with large cetaceans: illegal but commonplace
Since March 3, 2020, it has been formally forbidden to swim or dive with whales and sperm whales in Mauritius, even if accompanied by a professional. Yet this activity continues to be promoted on social networks or by certain companies.
Some providers still offer swimming with large cetaceans, despite the ban in force. Their promotional images show divers very close to the animals, which poses a problem. Others regularly post videos of swimming with these cetaceans on social networks. These images, although fascinating, are highly problematic: they show an illegal practice and contribute to its trivialization. Many tourists mistakenly think it’s authorized, or don’t even ask. As a result, they seek out this ‘experience’, without realizing that they are contributing to a form of animal harassment.
3. But then, why does this law exist?
If swimming with large cetaceans is forbidden, it’s not to annoy tourists, it’s above all to protect the animals and their safety. These animals are highly sensitive to stress. Being approached in their natural environment can disrupt their life rhythms, resting and feeding.
Studies have shown that simply being surrounded by humans or motors can be enough to disorientate them. It may also lead to the abandonment of a pup by a mother. In groups, it can lead to flight or abnormal behavior. Respecting this law is essential to their well-being and survival.
4. What are the solutions to this problem?
First of all, we need to educate and raise awareness among locals, tourists and skippers. Additionally, we can talk about it around us, point out in the comments of publications that promote swimming with large cetaceans that this is forbidden. We can also report problematic content on networks.
Secondly, we can support local initiatives to protect marine wildlife, by making a concrete commitment to associations or projects working to preserve cetaceans. This can take the form of donations, volunteering, or simply relaying their work to give them greater visibility.
Finally, it’s important to get informed before booking, so as to choose a responsible operator. To do this, you can ask questions about the regulations, check that you are not being offered the chance to swim with large cetaceans, make sure the company is certified, respects distances, limits the number of boats and offers gentle approaches.