Killer Whales and Boat Attacks With Dr Luke Rendell

[@bridevalley]

Fascinating and scary at the same time! Many thanks to Dr Luke for the very detailed and informative presentation and to Charlie for the video. We're hoping that the pod that plays with rudders doesn't migrate to the south Brittany coast since we have our boat there and we have a spade rudder!

[@ardent-training]

It is enough to make us think twice about heading that way! I thought for a moment your comment said spare rudder, haha. Hope we don't have to start carrying a spare anytime soon :P

[@bridevalley]

I've often thought about carrying a long oar for sculling. I guess that could be used as an emergency rudder...

[@ardent-training]

@@bridevalley Yeah would certainly work to an extent.. another good reason to use a hydrovane, there are so many options when we start getting imaginative!

[@terencemcgovern7609]

You mentioned "approved methods" of deterrence. What are those methods that can be used when avoidance is unsuccessful. Also has anyone tried creating noise that would interfere with the pod being able to communicate?

[@DubLubb]

Like a low power emp?

[@xfoxtrotwiskeykilo995]

Evolution / revenge . . .

[@ardent-training]

Thanks for the great question! This response is from Dr Luke himself! The phrase 'approved methods' was deliberately general, as what is and is not permitted depends on the wildlife protection laws in force in the specific waters, which could mean French, Portuguese, or Spanish laws apply - typically they apply to EEZs not just to territorial waters. Therefore skippers have a responsibility to ensure that any deterrence method they might plan to use is compliant with relevant laws - these vary between countries and over time, so you need to be informed otherwise you could find yourself breaking the law. In terms of acoustic deterrence yes this is being actively explored - see e.g. www.pbo.co.uk/news/sea-trials-of-new-acoustic-deterrent-device-to-keep-orcas-at-bay-80583. However, these devices are likely to be pretty expensive, potentially more expensive than changing sail plans.