Dolphin spotting is one of the delights on our cruises, and meeting one that was injured brought our attention to the threat these beautiful creatures face.
More often than not, we meet dolphins on our cruises, and they are always happy to come along and say hello to the Rhythmboat. Guests both young and old can't help but be thrilled whenever dolphins swim alongside our cruise.
In July this year, we met an injured bottlenose dolphin which was swimming on our bow wash and we managed to take a photo and video of it. We later passed it on to the 7 Nightly News where they featured a story about the injured dolphin.
Rescue mission
When the Sea World Foundation learnt about the injured dolphin, they launched a rescue operation to try to get to the dolphin to perform a medical check. After 6 hours of trying to secure the dolphin, they were unsuccessful. The dolphin looked healthy enough and they decided to continue to monitor the dolphin. Watch the updates on NBN News here.
Threats to dolphins
These gentle and playful creatures are a protected species in Australia and some species are vulnerable to extinction e.g. snubfin, Burranan bottlenose and Australian humpback. Under the EPBC Act, it is prohibited to kill, capture, injure or interfere with dolphins in Australian waters.
Some of the biggest threats to dolphins include:
plastic pollution
industrial coastal development
shark nets
commercial fishing (e.g. gillnets, purse-seine nets)
Unfortunately, dolphins can get caught in nets and sometimes they also get entangled and killed in shark control programs. Increasingly, we are seeing chemicals, plastic waste and bacterial pollution harm these innocent creatures.
How we can help
Every little bit we do can make a difference and we can start from where we are.
Avoid use of plastic bags and make sure we dispose of them responsibly. Even bits of plastic that end up in our waterways are a source of danger to marine life.
If you are fishing and see dolphins coming close, please reel in your lines so they don't get entangled.
Do not throw fish scraps in the water. This encourages dolphins to scavenge for food around fishing areas and increases the risk of entanglement.
It is illegal and harmful to feed dolphins. They are capable of getting their own food. Feeding them changes their behaviour and causes them to get too close to fishing boats and people.
Respect the dolphins and give them space. Dolphins need to have their space to feed, rest and play. If they choose to approach you, please be mindful of your speed limits.
If you do happen to meet an injured dolphin, please do not approach it and contact the wildlife authorities e.g. Marine Mammal Emergency immediately.
It is everyone's responsibility to care for our wildlife. Our Dolphin Spotting Cruises are one of our favourite cruises, and we are always grateful when the dolphins decide to come by and say hello to us. It is not something we can ever take for granted. We would love to have the dolphins visit us for many years to come, and caring for dolphins and making sure they are kept healthy and safe matters to all of us.
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About Port AdVenture Cruises, Port Macquarie
Come meet the Rhythmboat, a stunning white luxury catamaran that is the largest and most impressive one to ever grace the waters of the Hastings River.
Our cruises along the Hastings River make for a unique and captivating experience with each passing season and the beautiful changes in the scenery along the river. We also offer Private Parties with personalized service, catering to up to 150 guests. You have the freedom to choose your own catering and entertainment, ensuring a truly memorable event.
At Port AdVenture Cruises, safety is our top priority. We strictly adhere to regulations, conducting yearly inspections and maintaining compliance with safety management systems. Regular safety drills are also conducted to ensure the well-being of our passengers.
Embarking on a cruise aboard the Rhythmboat offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the warm and inviting Australian culture that we hold dear. So, are you ready to come aboard and experience the magic for yourself? We can't wait to welcome you!
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