Overtourism does not end at the coast. It is also present at sea.
Approaching marine mammals with vessels and following them can cause significant stress to animals, particularly when they are feeding or caring for their young.
In its post, the Blue World Institute describes an incident near Rovinj. According to the testimony of a tourist who witnessed the situation, around 30 vessels were following the dolphins, which appeared disoriented as a result of the disturbance, https://www.plavi-svijet.org/dupini-kao-turisticka-atrakcija/
This is precisely why there are rules of conduct when encountering dolphins. The Blue World Institute and the Institute for Tourism, together with partners from Croatia and Italy, have prepared the DOLPHIN ADRIA project proposal.
Through the project, we aim to develop and implement more responsible practices for dolphin watching and navigation in their vicinity. We will bring together tourism professionals’ education, observations collected at sea, and expert data in order to reduce disturbance to dolphins and other marine animals.
Photo: Blue World Institute