A leisure yacht sailing through the Strait of Gibraltar faced a terrifying encounter when a pod of orcas launched a sustained attack on the vessel, causing significant damage and leaving the crew shaken.
The incident occurred approximately six miles offshore from the Portuguese port of Sines, where the marine mammals repeatedly rammed the yacht's hull for nearly 45 minutes. The aggressive behaviour resulted in substantial damage to the vessel's rudder, leaving it unable to steer properly.
Dramatic Rescue Operation
The Portuguese navy swiftly responded to the distress call, dispatching a patrol boat to the scene. The damaged yacht was carefully escorted back to the safety of Sines harbour, where experts could assess the extent of the damage caused by the marine predators.
Thankfully, all three crew members aboard the vessel emerged from the harrowing experience unharmed, though undoubtedly shaken by their close encounter with the powerful animals.
Pattern of Concerning Behaviour
This incident represents the latest in a growing number of similar encounters between orcas and sailing vessels in the Iberian Peninsula waters. Marine biologists have been tracking this unusual behaviour pattern since 2020, with hundreds of incidents reported to date.
The scientific community remains divided on what's driving these interactions. Some researchers speculate it could be playful behaviour that turns destructive, while others suggest it might represent a form of taught behaviour among specific orca pods.
Safety Recommendations for Mariners
Maritime authorities have issued guidance for sailors navigating these waters:
- Maintain a safe distance from visible orca pods
- If approached, reduce speed and gradually move away
- Keep hands and equipment inside the vessel
- Immediately report any interactions to local authorities
While orca attacks on humans in the wild remain extremely rare, these repeated incidents with vessels have raised concerns among the sailing community and marine conservationists alike.
