Amidst the 31th anniversary of the iconic film "Free Willy," we find ourselves reflecting on its profound impact in shaping contemporary perceptions of marine safety and orca conservation. Cinematic representations have undeniably played a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of these majestic creatures, particularly amidst recent incidents involving attacks on tourist vessels. This article delves into the relevance of this discussion in safeguarding both human lives and the well-being of orcas in our oceans.

Since 2020, the waters of Portugal and Spain have been the stage for a phenomenon both fascinating and concerning: orcas have been approaching and sometimes colliding with boats, in a series of encounters that have alarmed sailors and captured the world's attention. Among other incidents, in the summer of 2022, a sailboat sank after one of these encounters, about six miles (eleven kilometers) from Sines, leading to the nighttime rescue of five crew members by a local fishing vessel named "Festas André," under the coordination of the Portuguese Navy and the Port Captain of Sines. This intriguing behavior of the orcas has raised questions: from simple curiosity of juvenile cetaceans to possible acts of revenge for past episodes. The story of White Gladis, an orca that began exhibiting defensive behaviors against boats, after an incident with a sailboat in 2020, has added a layer of mystery and scientific debate about interactions between humans and wildlife. White Gladis has been spotted in different groups attacking sailboats, and this behavior is replicating. Earlier this year, an attack on a sailboat off the coast of Scotland raises questions about whether these behaviors are subject to specific geography or if they will spread. Experts warn of the potential danger of these encounters, given the size of these marine mammals, which can reach up to 10 meters in length and weigh up to 10 tons. Maritime and environmental authorities have issued advice for sailors, recommending preventive measures during sightings to minimize risks and unwanted interactions. In Portugal, The National Maritime Authority and the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) regarding orca sightings: "Interaction with these mammals, attracted by the moving and noisy structures of boats, such as the rudder and propeller, can result in total or partial rupture of the rudder. In case of sighting these mammals, it is recommended to turn off the engine, in order to inhibit the rotation of the propeller, and immobilize the rudder door, thus discouraging these mammals from interacting with the moving structures of the boats." These interactions have become frequent and have a detrimental effect on the tourism sector, due to fear and apprehension among visitors, negatively affecting the maritime and nautical industry. As a company committed to the prosperity of coastal communities and the sustainable growth of nautical tourism, Zinc-It Maritime Spares stands in solidarity with this issue by raising awareness of it. This phenomenon highlights the complex relationship between humans and wildlife in the oceans, raising questions about the impact of our activities on nature and how we can coexist more harmoniously with these majestic creatures, whose actions continue to surprise, intrigue, and teach.