If it is forbidden to approach the dolphins less than 45 m, they have the right to approach you, but if they prefer to keep their distance, we must respect their choice
Several companies based on Oahu and the Big Island offer trips to swim in nature in the company of spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), the population living in these waters is estimated at 3,350 individuals.
One must know that dolphins are protected by law to protect marine mammals (Marine Mammal Protection Act). Yet it is forbidden to approach within 45 m, dolphins have the right to approach you. Curious and mischievous, they may decide to come to you to make your acquaintance. But if they prefer to keep their distance, it is strongly recommended not to insist and respect their choice. This is where the rub is: too many swimmers are bent on their will to approach, touch or caress them at any price without worrying about the animal and its biological rhythm.
By interfering with dolphins, bathers may threaten the health of these marine mammals and their reproductive rates
According to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Dolphins are playful and curious animals by nature hunters and feed on fish, shrimp and other squid mainly at night in deep waters, but the day they rest in waters nearest the coast. To rest, they swim slowly using only half of their brains, the other half remaining at rest.
The authorities fear that the so disturbing, bathers could jeopardize the health of these marine mammals and their reproductive rates.
The federal agency has given a deadline of 60 days to file comments and intends to hold public meetings with the communities concerned by the final decision, which should be taken by 2017.
A Kaikoura, Dolphin Encounter team has developed a recognized expertise to facilitate swimming with dolphins by disturbing the least possible
In other tourist destinations, such as New Zealand, operators have gained solid experience in dolphins interactions. A Kaikoura, Dolphin Encounter team has developed a recognized expertise to facilitate swimming with dolphins by disrupting them as little as possible. Each boat is limited to a maximum of 16 swimmers and water jumps vary between 3 and 4. Similarly, the duration of the interaction is monitored. Positioned on the rear valance of the boat, swimmers waiting for the signal to get to the water as gently as possible and go back on board when they hear the signal return a few minutes later. The activity is followed by local scientists that adjust schedules and practices based on the evolution of the population of dolphins…
