World Oceans Day Guidelines
Timor-Leste marked World Oceans Day with the establishment of formal guidelines for responsible interaction with marine mammals in its waters.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of Timor-Leste, in collaboration with Conservation International, signed the Guidelines for Interaction with Cetaceans (Whale, Dolphin, and Dugong) in Timor-Leste. The main purpose of establishing these guidelines is to ensure the sustainable development of the whale and dolphin watching industry by maximising positive impacts and education for operators and visitors alike.
Why These Guidelines Matter
Timor-Leste’s waters are home to a remarkable diversity of cetaceans, including sperm whales, spinner dolphins, and dugongs. As whale and dolphin watching grows as a tourism activity, clear and enforceable codes of conduct are essential to protect marine life and ensure that encounters remain safe for both animals and visitors.
The guidelines set out minimum approach distances, engine management protocols, and behavioural rules for vessels and swimmers. By providing a consistent framework for all operators, the initiative helps Timor-Leste position itself as a responsible marine tourism destination while preserving the ocean ecosystems that make these experiences possible.
Sustainable ocean tourism is a key pillar of Timor-Leste’s broader strategy to develop a tourism industry that benefits local communities without compromising the natural environment for future generations.