Minister Launches Marine Wildlife Code of Conduct for Cork and Kerry Coast

A new voluntary Code of Conduct for Responsible Marine Wildlife Watching has been launched today, Tuesday 3 March 2026, by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD, aimed at protecting whales, dolphins, seals and other marine species off the southwest coast of Ireland.

Developed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in collaboration with tour operators, the code sets out best practice for wildlife watching off the Cork and Kerry coastlines and forms part of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, Ireland's first Marine National Park.

Minister O'Sullivan launched the initiative in Dingle, Co. Kerry, where he met with tour operators who will take part in a pilot project over the coming months. The code includes recommended speeds, distances and time limits when observing species from boat tours, and highlights signs of disturbance to watch for, particularly during breeding season.

The species covered include fin whales, humpback whales, basking sharks, grey seals, dolphins, seabirds and turtles. Potential sources of harmful disturbance identified in the code include vessel noise, personal watercraft and the irresponsible use of drones.

Minister Christopher O'Sullivan said:

"The whale watching off the southwest coast can be world class. Encounters with ocean giants like fin whales and humpback whales aren't unusual, and there's also a chance to see other species like basking sharks and grey seals. But with the growth in eco-tourism and wildlife tourism, it's important that we emphasise how this can be done responsibly."

He added:

"Simple actions can have a huge impact on the safety and future of these species, such as keeping our distance, especially during breeding season, and being vigilant for signs of disturbance. While the code has been developed with tour operators, it can be put into practice by all of us who love to watch wildlife, whether in Baltimore or around the Blaskets."

The code is the result of an extensive consultation process and is based on the latest scientific research, as well as the local knowledge of operators working in the region.

Philip Buckley, Divisional Manager at the National Parks and Wildlife Service, said:

"The code of conduct originated within Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí as an initiative to protect the unique marine biodiversity within it. While the code is based on science and research, it also draws on the wealth of local knowledge and experience of operators in the region."

Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General of the NPWS, said:

"Partnerships across all of society are key to tackling the biodiversity crisis, and we're delighted with the positive engagement from the marine tourism sector in the development of this code. We encourage tour operators to sign up to the code and play their part in protecting our unique wildlife."

Following the pilot phase, the NPWS will engage with participating tour operators later in the year to finalise the code and explore how it can be rolled out more widely.

The code was developed with input from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG).