Experts Say Orcas Have Finally Learned to Sink Yachts — A Recent 45-Minute Attack Took One Down

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are one of the largest animals in history, reaching up to 6 to 8 meters in length, weighing about 3,000 to 4,000 kg, and with a maximum speed of 56 km/h. Their traits and abilities alone showcase how powerful they can be if they want to.

That is why a lot of people are asking when they sink a yacht, whether they are doing it on purpose or not. Are they just playing around, or are they doing it for revenge for all the years humans have disrespected their territories and kidnapped their young ones to be put in ocean parks for entertainment?

A 45-Minute Assault in the Strait of Gibraltar

On October 31, 2023, a Polish yacht named Grazie Mamma II was assaulted by a group of killer whales or orcas until it sank. For 45 minutes, they repeatedly targeted the rudder under the boat, destroying it, leading to the yacht sinking near the port of Tanger-Med. Luckily, no crew members or passengers were hurt during the attack, and everyone was rescued immediately.

Due to the nature of the attack, the public and experts are all wondering whether their intention was to really sink the boats. Since the attack lasted for 45 minutes, they most probably had a goal in mind. A leading theory could be that they are protecting their territory, as killer whales are a territorial animal. However, according to some experts, this behaviour was learned through one specific orca.

Read more: The Animal Rescue Site

Learned Behavior Spreading Among Orcas

Scientists JUST SOLVED Mystery Why Orcas Are Attacking Boats

Marine biologists think that most of the recent consecutive attacks of orcas on yachts and boats were learned from a single orca named “White Gladis,” who they thought experienced trauma and abuse from the boats in the area.

This behavior has been confirmed to spread to at least 20 Iberian orcas. Killer whales are smart animals; they are completely capable of learning such behavior, especially if it is from one of their social group.

Playful Curiosity or Intentional Sabotage?

Some experts actually suggest these orcas are just playing around. That even if they learned these behaviors from one of the orcas, the goal was to never hurt humans, but it is just about their playful curiosity.

However, other marine biologists are still convinced that these events are orcas practicing hunting techniques or responding to their past traumas. The main thing they learned is that the motivation is still unclear, but there is no denying that the orcas have learned how to sink a boat or yacht by specifically targeting the rudders.

Read more: People.com

Navigational Warnings and Safety Measures

Authorities have now given a warning and recommendation not to enter waters with high orca activity. This includes the Iberian coast, particularly the Strait of Gibraltar, where the recent 45-minute attack happened.

Also, if there is absolutely no way not to pass these waters, sailors are advised to prepare and stay vigilant of their surroundings. If orcas attacked, experts suggest stopping the engine completely and turning off autopilot to prevent orcas from damaging the rudder or helm. Immediately let the authorities or emergency hotlines know, so that if they are successful in sinking the boat, rescuers could be nearby to help.

Group of orcas attack and sink vessels off Iberian Peninsula

Author's Final Thoughts

A 45-minute orca attack led to the sinking of a Polish yacht, and marine biologists think that this was a learned behavior that may or may not be focused on taking revenge on humans. Newer studies are still required to understand the motivations of these majestic creatures, but until then, the responsibility falls on us to respect the boundaries between humans and orcas.

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