Chasing Dreams? Not Quite. This UK Man Was ‘Stalking’ Dolphins But Now He’s Banned

Last Updated:September 04, 2025, 17:28 IST

A man in Cornwall was warned by police for disturbing dolphins with a jet ski in St Austell Bay.

The police said the man, a local resident, was identified and served with a community protection warning.

A man in Cornwall was given a warning by the police after deliberately disturbing a pod of dolphins while riding a jet ski in St Austell Bay. The incident, which took place in June, saw the man approach the dolphins at close range and reportedly encourage others to follow suit. The police said the man, a local resident, was identified and served with a community protection warning.

The warning comes under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it illegal to intentionally or recklessly disturb dolphins, porpoises, whales and basking sharks. It places strict conditions on the individual, including a ban on following or pursuing any marine wildlife in any watercraft. Police warned that any breach of the order could lead to prosecution under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.

‘No Regard For Dolphins’

The police said the man showed blatant disregard for marine life, adding, “We’re lucky to have a vast amount of wildlife across the bays in Cornwall. Whilst sightings of these animals is exciting, it’s important we respect their space.”

“In this case, the individual had no regard for the dolphins or how his deliberate behaviour could cause a disturbance, even hailing for more people to come over and join him in doing so,” the police said.

Police reminded people to keep their distance from marine wildlife, advising at least 100 metres (330 feet) where possible, asserting, “Our ask is that people enjoy our waters, but to make sure they do so safely and responsibly.”

Authorities said if the 100-metre rule cannot be observed, people should leave as much space as possible to avoid distressing the animals.

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