Whale shark-watching boats to require propeller guards

Boats used for whale shark-watching tours will be required to use propeller guards in three months, according to Environment Minister Toriq Ibrahim.

The decision follows two recent fatalities during whale shark-watching tours.

In an interview to the Public Service Media (PSM) on Saturday evening, Toriq said that the government has drafted regulations to mandate the use of propeller guards.

According to Toriq, the regulations will be publicized within a week, and will come into effect in three months.

“We will be making a new regulation today or by the end of the week to require for boats to be fitted with propeller guards if they come within 250 meters of a whale shark. Boats cannot enter the area without a propeller guard. This will be implemented in three months,” he said.

Toriq said the use of propeller guards will protect not just swimmers and divers, but also whale sharks and other ocean life.

Toriq added that whale shark-watching boats will also be required to register with the authorities, and the tour guides need to be trained.

He said that the number of whale shark watchers will be limited to five tourists per guide, and that boats from the Environment Ministry will be deployed to monitor whale shark points.

Toriq warned that boats that fail to follow the new regulations will be penalized.

He also said that the government is renewing efforts to manage the South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa). Located in ADh. Atoll, the SAMPa) is the country’s largest marine protected area where whale sharks can be sighted throughout the year.