The ocean is home to magnificent creatures like whales. However, with more ships sailing, tragic accidents occasionally happen. The shipping industry is responsible for protecting whales from collisions that can cause severe damage to both the ship and the whale. This video discusses the issue of cetacean ship strikes as a pressing international concern brought to the forefront by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It highlights the growing risk of tragic accidents between ships and whales due to the increasing number of vessels traversing the water. Mariners face the challenge of spotting whales in tumultuous seas or dim light. The need to anticipate their presence makes this task even more difficult. Navigational charts are evolving to include high-density whale areas and migration pathways, which are essential for reducing sea accidents. Companies with exemplary whale protection protocols advocate for reduced speeds upon sighting a whale. They recommend wide berths around these leviathans. The faster the vessel, the deadlier the potential harm. Travelling through critical habitats at night should be minimised or avoided altogether. Changing course behind rather than ahead of a detected whale reduces collision risks significantly. Reporting sightings plays a crucial role, too. Vigilant lookouts must communicate any observations promptly. Detailed reporting within 24 hours is imperative in unfortunate strikes and notifying local authorities. Key points discussed include: - Growing Concern: International concern is mounting over ship strikes as maritime traffic increases. Detection challenges for navigators are underscored, especially under difficult conditions. - Importance of Awareness: Emphasising the need for enhanced awareness among seafarers regarding whale populations and migratory routes through improved mapping and voyage planning. - Voluntary Actions & Good Practices: Examples from sensitive areas like the north-western Mediterranean Se