Noise and marine life at large sailing events

Research published earlier this year found that the underwater noise created by large sailing events can impact marine wildlife. The research, undertaken at the Americas Cup in New Zealand in 2021, was led by Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Scientists at the University’s Institute of Life and Earth Sciences found that noise from large groups of motorised spectator boats  was loud and sustained long enough to potentially impact marine mammals, fishes and invertebrate species.  Research lead Matt Pine, an Honorary Research Fellow at Heriot-Watt said: “When sailing events like larger regattas are being planned, the potential impact of underwater noise pollution from spectator flotillas should be considered, especially for events happening in ecologically significant areas.

“Underwater noise from motorised vessels is particularly problematic, as studies have found it increases stress levels in many marine species and can reduce their success in reproduction, foraging and social interactions. Noise pollution can also cause some species to avoid or move away from their original habitats.”

The researchers conclude that internationally-renowned sailing events should make greater efforts to limit the potential impacts underwater noise from motorised vessels. Thousands of sailing regattas are staged around the world every year. In the UK in 2024, sailing regatta events include the Scottish Series regatta on the West Coast of Scotland in May; the Plymouth Regatta in July and Cowes Week, one of the UK’s longest-running sporting events, in the Solent off the Isle of Wight in early August.

Full research paper: Not so silent spectators: How spectator vessels at international sailing regattas alter marine soundscapes