If you are planning on crossing the Bay of Biscay, or cruising off the Iberian coast this year, Haven Knox-Johnston’s upcoming free webinar, “Understanding the threat of Orcas when sailing” is not to be missed. This informative session on February 11th 2025 at 7:30pm aims to educate sailors on the recent increase in orca whale interactions, particularly off the coasts of France, Spain and Portugal.
In recent years, sailors have reported a concerning rise in encounters with orca whales, ranging from harmless curiosity to aggressive behaviour. These incidents have raised safety concerns within the sailing community, highlighting the need for accurate information and effective strategies to manage such interactions.
To provide expert insight into this phenomenon, Haven Knox-Johnston has partnered with John Burbeck, the Cruising Association’s Orca Project Team Lead. With over 60 years of boating experience, John has been instrumental in collecting and analysing data on orca interactions since 2022. His leadership has significantly contributed to raising awareness and providing guidance to sailors, enhancing safety and knowledge within the sailing community.
Webinar Highlights
- Latest data and trends in orca interactions from 2022 to 2025, providing attendees with the latest information on the frequency and nature of these encounters
- Scientific Insights into why orcas may be interacting with boats, offering a deeper understanding of their behaviour
- Identifying high risk areas with increased orca activity and guidance on monitoring real-time movements using tools like traffic light systems and sighting apps.
- Recommendations on proven measures to minimise damage and injury during an orca encounter
- Practical advice on methods to avoid interactions with orcas altogether
- First-hand accounts from skippers who have encountered orcas, highlighting lessons learned
Paul Knox-Johnston, Sales and Marketing Manager at Haven Knox-Johnston said: “Our goal is to equip sailors with the knowledge and tools they need to use their boats safely and with peace of mind. By partnering with experts like John Burbeck, we aim to provide valuable insights that will help the sailing community understand and manage the risks associated with orca interactions.”
Interested participants can register for the webinar through the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/1017365236961/WN_aOMoiyIyR3OjwCZTYfEDRw
For those unable to attend the live session, the webinar will be recorded and uploaded to the Haven Knox-Johnston YouTube Channel. All those registered for the webinar will receive a link to the recorded webinar.
