When it comes to discussions about ocean pollution and conservation, yachtsmen and sailors are often unfairly grouped with other industries and recreational activities that have a much larger environmental footprint. In fact, yachtsmen are by far one of the least polluting groups when it comes to human activities on the water. While it’s easy to criticize any form of recreation as being wasteful or harmful to the environment, the reality is that sailing, especially under the wind, produces minimal environmental impact compared to other forms of transportation or even other recreational activities.
Black water or sewage on boats is a big topic, but it may be out of scope for the reality. In 2020, the city of Fort Lauderdale pumped over 206 million gallons of raw toxic sewage into the river systems around the city over about 6 weeks. That is more sewage than 100K active cruising boats produce in a year if they are all maxing out their holding tanks. It is likely closer to over 500K boats. The spill in Fort Lauderdale is minimal in comparison to what the various cruise ships, other cities, and large yachts produce. Often, the cruise ships dump as soon as they cross into “offshore” waters (where people still dive and fish), and super yachts have a variety of treatment systems, so they may illegally, in some cases, pump over the side in a “the fine is cheaper than the pump out” kind of math game.
Let’s take a closer look. A modern cruising yacht, especially one that sails predominantly, requires very little fuel compared to larger motorized vessels, and the average sailor typically uses renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and even hydroelectric power. In contrast, large commercial vessels and cruise ships, which burn vast amounts of fuel, are responsible for a significant portion of marine pollution. They contribute to carbon emissions, oil spills, and the spread of invasive species through ballast water. Even on a personal level, many motor yachts consume more fuel than an average sailor on a sailboat will use in an entire season.
It’s important to point out that yachtsmen and sailors generally have a much stronger connection to the natural environment, often choosing a life on the water because of its beauty and tranquility. Walking on a shore after a storm strewn with plastic is eye-opening. Seeing the runoff from cities as it enters the ocean as a brown, sludge-filled, oil-covered mess is heart-rending. As a result, sailors are naturally more invested in preserving the oceans they love to navigate. Yachtsmen take steps to reduce their impact, from using energy-efficient systems to adopting eco-friendly boating practices. Unlike many land-based activities, sailing has the potential to leave no carbon footprint when the wind is in the sails and the engine stays off.
The question often arises, “Why should we bother with marine conservation efforts? We’re already the least polluting group!” The answer lies in the fact that every tiny bit helps. While it’s true that yachtsmen are already among the least harmful to the environment, this doesn’t mean we can’t do more. Small actions, like reducing single-use plastics, using biodegradable cleaning products, and participating in beach clean-ups, can have an outsized impact when everyone contributes. The oceans, after all, are vast, but they are also fragile. Every piece of plastic picked up, every gallon of waste adequately disposed of, and every conservation act ripples out into the greater environment.
Additionally, as one of the more conscientious groups on the water, yachtsmen can be leaders in advocating for stronger environmental protections, sharing sustainable practices, and setting a positive example for others. The ocean needs advocates, and who better than those who spend most of their time on its waters to lead the charge?
So, even though sailors and yachtsmen are already among the least polluting of all groups on the water, embracing a sustainable and responsible approach ensures that our influence continues to be positive. Every small change we make can help protect the oceans, and when compounded, these small actions can contribute to an enormous shift in how humanity treats the sea.
Now, let’s take a look at 10 actionable steps every yachtsman can take to ensure our beautiful oceans stay healthy for future generations.
1. Reduce Single-Use Plastics Onboard
Plastic is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to ocean pollution. It’s easy to overlook the small actions that lead to waste, but as sailors, we have a responsibility to reduce our environmental footprint. Start by eliminating single-use plastics from your onboard routine.
Invest in reusable alternatives:
- Reusable water bottles
- Stainless steel straws
- Cloth bags for shopping or storing provisions
- Refillable soap and shampoo dispensers
This simple switch can make a significant impact on the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean. Make it a practice to properly dispose of waste and ensure any plastic or other harmful materials stay on board until they can be disposed of properly when ashore.
2. Proper Waste Disposal and Wastewater Management
Proper waste disposal is critical to maintaining the health of the oceans. Many boaters still discharge untreated wastewater into the sea. But this practice leads to nutrient pollution, harmful algae blooms, and can even contribute to disease outbreaks.
- Use onboard composting toilets or marine sanitation devices that meet local regulations. If you’re in a sensitive area, these measures can prevent wastewater from contaminating the water you love.
- Dispose of waste at designated pump-out stations at marinas, and avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper into the system.
- Carry biodegradable soaps and cleaning products to avoid introducing harmful chemicals into the marine environment.
These steps can go a long way in protecting water quality, ensuring the ocean stays clean and healthy for wildlife and fellow sailors alike.
3. Opt for Eco-Friendly Boat Maintenance
When it comes to boat maintenance, many products on the market are harmful to marine life. From toxic bottom paints to harmful cleaning agents, boat care can easily contribute to pollution.
- Use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products that won’t harm marine life when they wash into the water.
- Opt for eco-friendly anti-fouling paints that prevent algae and barnacle growth without polluting the water with copper or other harmful substances.
- Consider using solar panels and wind turbines to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. Green energy options for powering your boat can reduce emissions and your carbon footprint.
By choosing sustainable materials and practices, you’re actively contributing to the preservation of the marine ecosystem.
4. Support Marine Conservation Organizations
A great way to make a direct impact is to get involved with organizations dedicated to marine life conservation. Many groups are actively working to preserve marine habitats, protect endangered species, and combat the effects of climate change.
- Oceana, Surfrider Foundation, 4Oceans, and Marine Conservation Society are just a few organizations focused on the health of our oceans. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time.
- Participate in citizen science programs where you can report sightings of marine life, help monitor water quality or even assist with beach clean-ups.
These organizations often provide resources that help sailors reduce their impact on the environment, including guides, best practices, and educational materials.
5. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
While most sailors today don’t rely on fossil fuels to power their boats, many of us still use them in some capacity. Whether it’s the engine on your sailboat or the fuel for your dinghy, reducing your carbon footprint is essential to protecting the health of the ocean.
- Use your engine as little as possible and rely on wind power for propulsion whenever possible.
- If you need to use your engine, ensure its well-maintained to minimize emissions. Regularly check for leaks and keep it running efficiently.
- Switch to biofuels or low-emission alternatives if they are available in your area.
Every little bit counts, and if we can reduce our emissions, it helps slow the rate of ocean acidification and the overall impact of climate change on marine life.
6. Respect Marine Wildlife
There’s something magical about spotting dolphins, sea turtles, or even whales during a sail. But it’s important to remember that these animals are not there for our entertainment — they are living creatures in need of protection.
- Keep a respectful distance from marine animals. Never approach them or disturb their natural behaviors. Dolphins and whales, in particular, need their space to feed, communicate, and migrate.
- Be aware of protected species in the waters you’re sailing. Many areas have laws in place to prevent harm to endangered or threatened species, such as the North Atlantic right whale or various species of sea turtles.
Maintaining a respectful distance not only ensures the safety of the wildlife but also supports the long-term survival of these species.
7. Avoid Anchoring in Sensitive Areas
Anchors easily damage coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and other sensitive marine habitats. Unfortunately, many sailors still anchor directly on these delicate ecosystems, causing irreparable harm to these environments.
- Learn how to properly anchor in sandy or rocky areas to avoid damaging underwater habitats.
- Consider using anchorless mooring buoys in areas with sensitive marine life. These buoys help preserve the delicate marine ecosystems by allowing boats to moor without disturbing the seabed.
By being mindful of where and how we anchor, we help protect the habitats that support a wide variety of marine species.
8. Participate in Beach and Waterway Cleanups
It’s one thing to avoid contributing to pollution; it’s another to actively clean up what’s already out there. Participating in beach and waterway cleanups is a hands-on way to help protect marine life.
- Organize or join local beach clean-up events wherever you sail.
- Bring along a reusable trash bag when you go ashore and make it a habit to collect plastic waste or other debris you come across.
Taking the time to help clean up our shores not only makes a visible difference but also sends a strong message about our commitment to protecting the ocean.
9. Educate Others and Lead by Example
Sailors form close-knit communities, and each of us can play an influential role in educating others about marine conservation. By leading by example, we can inspire others to follow suit.
- Share your knowledge about sustainable sailing practices with fellow sailors.
- Educate others on the importance of marine life conservation and help debunk myths about how little it takes to make a difference.
As sailors, we are natural leaders. By speaking up and taking action, we can have a far-reaching impact on the communities we belong to.
10. Advocate for Stronger Marine Conservation Policies
Lastly, the larger-scale problems facing our oceans require systemic change. As sailors, we can advocate for stronger environmental policies to protect marine life and ecosystems.
- Support political candidates who prioritize ocean conservation and climate action.
- Advocate for marine protected areas (MPAs) where human activity is restricted to give marine ecosystems a chance to recover.
- Write to your local representatives to express your concerns about the ocean and support stronger protections for marine life.
By voicing our concerns and using our influence, we can push for legislative changes that will have a lasting impact on the health of our oceans.
Sailing Toward a Healthier Ocean Future
As sailors, we are intimately connected to the oceans. Our vessels glide across the water, our livelihoods often depend on the sea, and the ocean is a source of deep inspiration and joy. But with this connection comes a responsibility — a responsibility to protect and preserve the marine ecosystems that make sailing possible.
By following these 10 actionable recommendations, we can all play a part in ensuring the health of our oceans for future generations. Whether it’s reducing plastic waste, supporting conservation organizations, or simply educating others about the importance of marine life preservation, every effort counts.
As we set sail into the future, let’s do so with the knowledge that we are not only adventurers on the sea but also guardians of the very waters that sustain us.
Book Recommendation: The Last Great Sea: A Voyage Through the Human and Natural History of the North Pacific Ocean by Carl Safina
Carl Safina is a marine conservation expert and storyteller who brings the ocean’s beauty and fragility to life. His books, such as The View from Lazy Point and Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel, explore the deep connections between humans and marine life. It offers both scientific insights and compelling narratives about marine conservation, reinforcing why sailors should be at the forefront of protecting the ocean.
