Following a trial at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, Scotland, tour boat operator and owner Richard James Greenhowe, skipper of the sailing vessel Seacab, has lost his appeal to have his conviction quashed. Greenhowe was fined £2,575 after being found guilty of two offences under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994. In July 2023, he deliberately or recklessly disturbed a pod of dolphins at Torry Battery, Aberdeen, by driving through and over the animals. Days later, he disturbed a pod of pilot whales in the harbour area, splitting the group.
Marine Connection welcomes the ruling, which reinforces the importance of respecting and protecting wild marine mammals. Seeing dolphins and whales in the wild is a privilege, not an invitation to interfere. They must be given the space to feed, socialise and move freely without disturbance or stress. This ruling sends a clear message: marine wildlife must come first. By promoting responsible behaviour at sea, we can help protect these remarkable animals and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy seeing them in the wild.
