Wildlife boat tour operators along the Cork and Kerry coasts are being asked to keep their distance from whales, dolphins, and seabirds, under a new code of conduct being trialled. The voluntary code for “responsible marine wildlife watching” has been drawn up in consultation with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) and other operators, and was launched by the National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) in Dingle. Kerry alone now has upwards of 25 tour operators - some with multiple boats - along the southwest coast. The code includes guidance to minimise and eliminate disturbance during wildlife watching activities. "But with the growth in eco-tourism and wildlife tourism, it’s important that we emphasise how this can be done responsibly.

Source: Irish Examiner March 03, 2026 15:05 UTC