The waters within and surrounding North America are a source of food and oxygen for a number of aquatic species estimated to be greater than 225,000. This amazing diversity of life depends on its ecosystem remaining free of harmful levels of toxic substances. Recreational boating, however, releases pollutants that disrupt and destroy the delicate balance of oxygen and nutrients needed to sustain life in our planet’s waters. A two-stroke outboard motor, for example, can release as much as 30% of its oil and fuel into the water.
What Defines Eco-Friendly Boating?
Proper disposal of hazardous waste and preventing fuel spills are primary attributes of eco-friendly boating. Relying on wind power rather than a combustion motor is one of the most environmentally respectful ways to enjoy water travel. There’s no need to relinquish the often awe-inspiring connection to nature that accompanies a recreational water journey; consider booking a wind-powered yacht excursion on one of the San Diego sailing charters for an unforgettable Pacific Ocean experience.
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Eco-friendly boating reduces the harmful impact on the environment, but it doesn’t require radical change. Keeping an ample supply of highly absorbent rags on board to wipe up oil, fuel, and cleaning-fluid spills helps reduce how much of these toxic substances enter the water. Waste and clean-up materials should be disposed of properly rather than simply “thrown overboard.” Using only non-toxic substances when cleaning a boat’s hull also helps reduce the amount of harmful chemicals in the water.
Protecting Marine Life While Boating
Maintaining a respectful attitude towards the aquatic environment includes not interfering with the creatures inhabiting it. Southern California whale-watching excursions remain mindful of not causing stress or harm to these visually impressive but also endangered species. At body lengths that can reach 100 feet, blue whales are the largest mammals still in existence. It’s also been estimated there are less than 3,000 of these creatures left across the world.
When comparing blue whale vs grey whale statistics, gray whales are somewhat more populous with estimates of more than 25,000 remaining in existence. Growing to about half of the length of the blue whale, gray whales prefer to spend the winter season in Southern California’s warmer waters. Both species have become endangered due to growing levels of water pollution, climate change and large-vessel collisions.
Following the Whales While Respecting the Environment
Southern California’s waters offer an opportunity to see some of the most awesome sea creatures remaining in existence. You can also do so in an eco-friendly way by booking a whale-watching tour on a wind-powered sailing yacht. In addition to blue and gray whales, you can see fin whales, humpback whales and even killer whales depending on the month of your tour.
The various whale species make their way to San Diego’s shoreline based on their individual migratory patterns. Overall, there’s an abundance of aquatic wildlife that also includes porpoises, sea birds, flying fish and sea lions. Dolphins traveling together in huge numbers are often seen as they leap into the air. The various patterns of whale migration California presents make San Diego’s waters an ideal location to experience some of the most incredible displays of marine life found within North America’s waters.