By Wild Dolphin Project

Summer is the perfect time to head out on the water — whether you’re cruising the coast, enjoying a sunset sail, or taking the family for a day of fun in the sun. But as more boats hit the waves, it’s important to remember we’re not the only ones enjoying the ocean. Marine mammals like manatees, dolphins, and whales are also out and about, and they need our help to stay safe — in addition to other marine life like manta rays and sea turtles.

Every summer, manatees are spotted slowly grazing in shallow seagrass beds, dolphins leap through wakes and ride waves near boats, and sometimes even whales are seen gliding along the coast. These animals rely on healthy, undisturbed waters for feeding, mating, raising young, and resting. Boat traffic — especially fast or careless boating — can put them in serious danger. There’s a reason that nearly all manatees spotted here in Florida have scars from boat strikes, and we see them on dolphins too. And for sea turtles, boat strikes are one of the leading causes of death.

So, here are a few things to keep in mind when out on the water.

Go Slow, Especially in Wildlife Zones

One of the easiest and most effective ways to protect marine mammals is simple: slow down. High-speed boating is a leading cause of injury and death for animals like manatees, who often float just beneath the surface and can be difficult to see in time. Obey all posted “slow speed” and “no wake” zones — these are usually placed in areas known for wildlife activity, especially in states like Florida where manatees are common.

Keep in mind, many animals don’t swim away from approaching boats. Manatees, for example, are slow-moving and often rest near the surface. A speeding boat may not see them in time, and the result can be deadly. By reducing your speed, you give both yourself and the animal more time to react.

Keep Your Distance

It can be incredibly exciting to spot dolphins playing in the water or a whale surfacing in the distance — but it’s important to give them space. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), it’s illegal to harass or disturb marine mammals in the wild. This includes chasing, feeding, or getting too close to them.

In general, stay at least:

• 100 yards away from whales

• 50 yards from dolphins, porpoises, and manatees

If the animal approaches you, maintain your course and speed. Don’t accelerate suddenly or change direction — this can confuse or stress the animal. You can however, slow down carefully or even idle, cut the engine and just watch. You could get lucky and observe social behavior of dolphins or feeding pilot whales.

Remember, it’s their home. We’re just visitors.

Look Before You Launch (or Anchor)

Before starting your engine, always look around and under your boat. Manatees or sea turtles can often be resting near docks, in marinas, or shallow areas close to shore. Take a moment to scan the water for unusual ripples, shadows, or snouts poking above the surface. Anchors can also damage seagrass  beds — essential habitat for manatees and turtles — or coral reefs so choose designated mooring areas when possible.

Observe — and Enjoy — Responsibly

Watching marine mammals in the wild is a privilege. These animals offer an unforgettable window into ocean life, and seeing them can inspire a lifelong love of the sea. If you’re lucky enough to see dolphins surfing in your wake or manatees drifting below the surface, observe quietly, take photos from a distance, and share the moment with care.

Let your fellow boaters know what you saw — and encourage them to be respectful too.

You’re Part of the Solution

By boating responsibly, you’re helping ensure that marine mammals continue to thrive. Your actions can prevent injury, reduce stress to wild animals, and help protect endangered species like the West Indian manatee and North Atlantic right whale.

So this summer, whether you’re paddling through mangroves or cruising past sandbars, remember to go slow, stay alert, and share the space with the amazing marine mammals who call our waters home.

#BoatResponsibly #ShareTheSea #MarineMammalProtection #ManateeAwareness #DolphinSafeBoating #SummerOnTheWater