Introduction to Vessel Strike Mitigation

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• Give an overview of the vessel strike threat, and the impact that it can have on different marine mammal species and the shipping industry
• Outline how to spot large whales at sea
• Describe the key identification features of large whales, to enable you to identify them to the species level and apply this knowledge to confidently identify the species of large whale at heightened risk of vessel strikes
• Understand how to identify behaviours of whales which can increase risk of a strike
• Apply the best practice measures for reducing the risk of collision, including a sound knowledge of the guidance measures to help seafarers make decisions when they encounter whales
• Confidently know where to find more information about management measures in place in key vessel strike hotspots
• Outline the considerations needed when navigating through areas with management measures in place
• Recognise why reporting vessel strike is crucial, and where and how to report a vessel strike event