Spain's Orcas Are Staying Away From Southern Waters — But Getting Closer to Ships in the North

A Tale of Two Coasts

Interactions between boats and orcas off the Spanish coast shifted in opposite directions during the summer of 2025, according to new analysis from Spain's monitoring commission.

In the waters between the Gulf of Cádiz and the Strait of Gibraltar — which had been the focus of global attention in recent years following a series of high-profile boat encounters — interactions continued to drop significantly, consolidating what authorities describe as a clear downward trend.

The news is less straightforward off the Galician coast and along the Cantabrian, however, where a slight increase in encounters was recorded compared to 2024.

New Risk Map for Galicia

In response to the shifting pattern, a new risk map has been drawn up specifically for the Galician coastline, identifying the areas where contact with orcas is most likely. A similar map already existed for southern waters and remains in place.

The commission — which brings together Spain's general directorates for Biodiversity and the Merchant Navy — has issued updated guidance for anyone sailing in affected areas.

What to Do If You Encounter Orcas

Between April and October, when the probability of encountering orcas in Spanish Atlantic waters is at its highest, sailors are advised to:

• Plan routes as close to the coast as safety allows
• Avoid areas with the highest known orca presence where possible
• If an encounter does happen — whether on a motorised vessel or a sailing boat — keep moving rather than stopping
• Head towards the coast or shallower water

It's also worth noting that using any kind of deterrent that could harm, disturb or cause distress to the animals is strictly prohibited.

Why the Shift?

The reasons behind the changing pattern remain a subject of research. The orcas that frequent the Strait of Gibraltar are part of a small, critically endangered Iberian population that follows Atlantic bluefin tuna through these waters. Changes in tuna migration routes, water temperatures and prey availability could all be contributing factors.

For sailors and boat owners on the Costa Blanca and southern coasts, the trend is reassuring — encounters are becoming rarer. But for those heading north to Galicia or the Cantabrian coast this spring and summer, it's worth checking the new risk maps before setting out.

This article is based on reporting from Spanish News Today, published April 2, 2026. This article is for informational purposes only.