An unknown number of killer whales have sunk a yacht after ramming it in Moroccan waters in the Strait of Gibraltar. This was reported by Spain’s maritime rescue service, reporting the latest in a series of similar attacks by these cetaceans in recent years.
There were two people on board the vessel, the 15 meter long Alboran Cognac. The couple reported hearing sudden bangs on the hull and rudder at around 9am on Sunday before the boat began to take on water. After alerting the rescue services, a nearby tanker welcomed them on board and transported them to Gibraltar. The yacht was left adrift and eventually sank.
The incident is the latest in a series of similar attacks in recent years around the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Europe from Africa south of Spain, where many yachts sail during the summer months. Experts believe they involve a subpopulation of “Gladis” orcas, which includes around 15 individuals.
According to the GT Atlantic Orca research group, since May 2020, over 700 interactions between orcas and ships have been documented in the area, which lies along the migratory route of these cetaceans. Researchers are not sure what causes the behavior, but theories include that it could be expressions of curiosity, playful behavior or an aggressive reaction towards boats perceived as competitors for bluefin tuna, their favorite prey.
Although known as killer whales, endangered orcas are part of the dolphin family. They can measure up to 8 meters in length and weigh up to 6 tonnes as adults.
