The vessels that circulate in the Sado estuary can easily disturb the dolphins. Navigation can prevent careless rest, difficult to capture prey, socialization and play, and also interfere with communication between individuals.

Are particularly vulnerable to disturbance in pregnancy and the female offspring.

For this population remains in the Sado estuary for many more years and so we can walk through their habitat without disturbing them, we count on you to comply with the following rules:

• Avoid sudden changes in speed, direction and meaning in the course of his vessel;
• Do not exceed the speed of movement of animals;
• Keep a parallel course and behind the dolphins, so they have a free field of 180 in front;
• Position your boat in a sector of 60 degrees to the rear of dolphins;
• Avoid making noise in the vicinity of dolphins, which attract or disturb;
• Be aware of the approach of other dolphins;
• Do not stay more than 30 minutes near a group of dolphins;
• It is forbidden to approach working within 30 feet of any dolphin - we should leave it to them to approach us;
• It is forbidden and stay of more than three vessels within 100 meters around the dolphins;
• It is forbidden to prosecute or cause separation of groups of dolphins, especially the isolation of the pups;
• The feeding, touching and swimming with dolphins;
• It is forbidden to approach the dolphins whose proximity to the coast subjecting their movements in relation to the vessel;
• The use of reverse gear in the vicinity of a pod of dolphins, except in emergencies;
• The use of jet skis, personal watercraft and vehicles like the dolphin.

The dolphin watching should be stopped immediately if you notice any of these signs of distress:

• Amendment marked the direction and speed of the initial movement of dolphins;
• Swimming evasive and repeated removal of the vessel;
• Extension of time diving and / or decreased time to surface after the approaching vessel;
• repetitive beats of the tail fin on the water surface;
• Movements of adult dolphins depart for the pups or to stand between them and the boats.

They are strictly forbidden to disturbance, and deterioration or destruction of their habitat.

If you witness any act that violates these standards, you should immediately contact the authorities:

Natural Reserve of Sado Estuary - +351 265 541 140
Maritime Police (in the Setúbal region contact: +351 265 548 275)
Shelters Network (Network Support Marine Mammals) - +351 968 849 101