Strengthening Whale Protection Along the Chilean Coast and São Sebastião

Over the past weeks, the Whale Guardians initiative has taken important steps forward through direct engagement, operational implementation, and strengthened collaboration across key South American ports.

The MV Lowlands Pelikaan, a vessel from our valued member Cobelfret, sailed along the Chilean coastline with our Whale Guardian Capt. Sveto on board during a period marked by increased whale migration and a rise in reported ship strikes. This context made our mission particularly relevant and timely.

Meetings took place with local whale protection organizations, the Chilean Navy, port authorities, agencies, terminals, and stakeholders across Mejillones, Antofagasta, and within the Magellan Strait pilots network. Collaboration was strengthened, and a constructive operational discussion emerged: 

Where feasible, to recommend vessel routing outside the continental shelf of the West coast South America and crossing at 90 degrees

even if that means minor additional distance to sail — to further minimize the risk of unintentional ship strikes. 

During the voyage, numerous whales were observed feeding and traveling along the continental shelf. Thanks to the extensive training provided to the crew, precautionary measures were applied timely and effectively — demonstrating that commercial efficiency and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive with extra efforts from the  crew resoures, proper training, available and timely communicated whale data/migration  information. Still however, it is obvious that in the absence of relevant technology for whale detection, there is nothing that the ship's crew can do during the dark hours of the night to prevent unintentional ships strikes unless the vessel is outside their path.

The voyage continued to São Sebastião, where the crew of the Lowlands Pelikaan, as proud Whale Guardians, received a warm welcome. Meetings were held with Projeto Baleia A Vista, Instituto Baleia Jubarte, Tebar Terminal, Transpetro representatives, port authorities, and numerous local partners. Additional training sessions highlighted why whale protection matters and showcased how the Port of São Sebastião actively integrates environmental protection into safe and efficient port operations.

It is encouraging to see ports and stakeholders walking the extra mile — recognizing whale protection as a shared priority while maintaining operational excellence.

The growing global shipping activity requires equally growing responsibility. The commitment and understanding demonstrated across all visited ports provide confidence that collaborative, practical solutions can be implemented worldwide.

We extend our sincere thanks to all organizations, partners, and individuals contributing to this important cause. Together, we will continue advancing preventive measures and promoting responsible navigation wherever we operate.