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Interactions between boats and orcas off the Spanish coast shifted in opposite directions during the summer of 2025, with encounters falling significantly in the south while increasing slightly in the north, according to new analysis from Spain's monitoring commission.

 

In the waters between the Gulf of Cádiz and the Strait of Gibraltar, which had been the focus of considerable attention in recent years following a series of high-profile boat encounters, interactions continued to drop significantly, consolidating what authorities describe as a clear downward trend.

 

The news is less straightforward off the Galician coast and along the Cantabrian, however, where a slight increase in encounters was recorded compared to 2024.

 

In response to the shifting pattern, a new risk map has been drawn up specifically for the Galician coastline, identifying the areas where contact with orcas is most likely. A similar map already existed for southern waters and remains in place.

 

The commission, which brings together Spain's general directorates for Biodiversity and the Merchant Navy, has issued updated guidance for anyone sailing in affected areas. Between April and October, when the probability of encountering orcas in these Atlantic waters is at its highest, sailors are advised to plan routes as close to the coast as safety allows and to avoid areas with the highest known orca presence where possible.

 

If an encounter does happen, whether on a motorised vessel or a sailing boat, the advice is to keep moving rather than stopping, and to head towards the coast or shallower water. It's also worth noting that using any kind of deterrent that could harm, disturb or cause distress to the animals is prohibited.