SANTCUARY WATCH
2019-2023
Polynesia's only scientific program to better understand and limit the risk of collision.
As part of this project, observations are carried out on board the ferries making the daily crossings between Tahiti and Moorea. This presence on board the ferries is carried out by OMMs (Observateurs de Mammifères Marins - Marine Mammal Observers) and enables us to gain a better understanding of collision situations between these vessels and large cetaceans, in order to anticipate and avoid them.
WORLDWIDE MARITIME TRAFFIC
Among the many anthropogenic threats to large cetaceans, shipping collisions are considered one of the most significant. An increase in the number of these fatal accidents since the end of the 19th century has been clearly established, and is attributed to a worldwide increase in the number, size and speed of ships.
LOCAL MARITIME TRAFFIC
Maritime transport from Papeete consists of almost all freight to islands (other than Tahiti) and the Tahiti-Moorea route, which accounted for 99% of traffic in 2013.
This line mainly transports Moorea residents who come to Tahiti to work.
Non-residents are also transported via cruises linking Tahiti to the other islands. Since 2015, international liners have also been stopping in French Polynesia on their trans-Pacific tours.
A THREAT TO CETACEANS
Within Polynesian waters classified as a marine mammal sanctuary since 2002, several collisions have already been reported but not actually documented.
In order to better understand this issue, the Vigie Sanctuaire study project was initiated in 2018 by Oceania, and then renewed every year until today.
MARINE MAMMAL OBSERVERS
Equipped with a pair of binoculars (to observe), a tablet (to collect data on ObsenMer) and a VHF to communicate with the captain, they are tasked with detecting large cetaceans over long distances to minimize the risk of collision.
Their role: to monitor the maritime route between Tahiti and Moorea aboard the shuttles that run the daily service (Terevau and Aremiti) 7 days a week during the season.
