What the Blue Boat flag is
The Blue Boat flag is an official emblem of the Canary Islands Government. It serves to identify, at a glance, the vessels authorised to watch cetaceans.
It is easy to recognise. It is a yellow flag with a blue boat drawn on it. It is placed on board, in plain view of everyone.
Its legal basis is Decree 178/2000. This Canary Islands rule governs cetacean watching in the waters of the archipelago, so that it is done with respect for the animals.
What it means when you sail with us
Our two sailboats, Aemón and Ayla, fly the Blue Boat flag. It is not a decoration: it is the visible proof that we are authorised by the Canary Islands.
For you it is a clear and simple sign. If a boat displays the flag, it complies with the rules. If it does not fly it, it does not comply.
The flag goes together with a way of behaving at sea. It commits us to approaching calmly, keeping our distance and not disturbing the cetaceans. It matches what we already believe: the sea is not a stage set up for the visitor.
Sailing with small groups helps us honour that commitment. A calm sailboat shows more respect for the animals than a full, noisy boat.
How to check that a boat flies it
This is one of the easiest signs to verify for yourself. You do not need to be an expert.
Before boarding, look to see whether the vessel displays the yellow flag with the blue boat. It is a quick glance that tells you a great deal about who you are going to sail with.
We encourage you to look for it. We would rather you boarded knowing that you are going with a company that follows the rules and treats the sea as what it is: a living space that must be cared for.
