World Sailing has released new global guidelines aimed at reducing vessel strikes on whales, dolphins and other large marine species.
The Marine Megafauna in Sailing guidelines were launched in London on 23 December by World Sailing and the Marine Mammal Advisory Group.
They are designed to support sailors, race organisers and national authorities in managing risks posed by interactions with marine wildlife.
Data from the Marine Strike Log shows that half of reported collisions result in injury or death to animals, often alongside damage to vessels.
The document sets out a structured framework built around six pillars, including risk assessment, live reporting, technical solutions and education.
World Sailing Sustainability Director Alexandra Rickham said the release marked “a pivotal moment for our sport”.
“By establishing a unified, global approach, we are ensuring a clear, consistent, and responsible application across all events and classes,” she said.
The guidelines call for events to adopt a tailored Nature Action Plan to identify local risks and mitigation measures.
A template developed by MMAG is included to help organisers assess habitats, species behaviour and racecourse design.
Case studies from major events such as The Ocean Race and classes including IMOCA highlight practical measures already in use.
These include moving race areas away from sensitive habitats, deploying marine mammal observers and using detection tools such as drones.
MMAG co-founder Damian Foxall said sailors play a critical role in improving safety at sea.
“Every sailor can be a citizen scientist,” he said, urging crews to report sightings and strikes using tools such as Whale Alert and MMAG’s Marine Strike Survey.
The guidelines are available now via World Sailing’s sustainability portal and the MMAG website.
