Marine pollution – What you can do as a sailor
Marine pollution: What sailors can do
The sea is our adventure playground, retreat and source of energy. However, we are increasingly seeing floating garbage, oil residue and microplastics – even in paradisiacal areas such as the Adriatic. If you are traveling by sailing yacht or catamaran, you can do a lot to reduce marine pollution and set an example for others at the same time.
Especially if you rent a catamaran in Croatia or charter a boat in Istria, it pays to be conscious of the environment and resources – because the more people act sustainably, the longer our areas will remain worth living in.
1. Avoid waste and dispose of it correctly
Sounds banal, but it’s the most important step: avoid single-use plastic on board. Instead of plastic bottles, use reusable bottles and a large drinking water canister. And make sure you minimize packaging waste before the trip – this will save you space and weight.
Never dispose of your waste in the sea. Even biodegradable waste such as leftover food can disturb the delicate balance. Instead, use port facilities or take your waste back to the mainland.
2. Anchoring with consideration
Many bays in Istria and Croatia are home to sensitive seagrass meadows, which not only produce oxygen but are also important habitats for marine life. Therefore, when anchoring, take care not to stray into these zones.
Tip: There are now ecological buoys in many areas. If you are traveling with a chartered sailing yacht or catamaran, find out about protected areas in advance and use the designated anchorages.
3. Oil and chemicals? Not a chance!
Even small amounts of oil or cleaning agents can cause major damage on the water. Use environmentally friendly on-board cleaners and regularly check whether the engine or bilge are dripping.
When refueling, make sure that nothing overflows – caution is required here, especially on charter trips, as you do not own the boat, but the responsibility still lies with you.
4. Respect for animals
Dolphins, sea turtles and seabirds are not uncommon in the Adriatic. Watch them at a distance and turn off the engine when animals approach. Never feed them or try to attract them – this disturbs their natural rhythm and can endanger them.
If you see dolphins while renting a catamaran in Croatia: get out your camera, stay on course and enjoy the silence!
5. Living community – and being a role model
Many small gestures have an effect: if you see garbage in the water, fish it out. Address crew members kindly about their behavior if necessary. And share your commitment on social media – not to brag, but to inspire.
The more sailors feel responsible, the greater the effect. Especially when chartering a boat in Istria or renting a catamaran in Croatia, you will meet many like-minded people – take the opportunity to exchange ideas.
Our summary
The seas give us unforgettable experiences – it is up to us to give something back. Whether you charter a sailing yacht, rent a catamaran in Croatia or go out on your own boat, every trip is an opportunity to act sustainably.
With simple measures, you can help ensure that future generations can also experience clean water, lively bays and intact ecosystems.
