A new chapter unfolds around the incident involving the sailboat Grazie Mamma II, which foundered in the Strait of Gibraltar. Measuring 13 meters in length, the vessel did not remain afloat during rescue operations on October 31, yet every crew member was saved with no loss of life.
According to the Polish company Morskie Mile, a specialist in scenic sailing routes that traverse notable waterways including the Bosphorus, the boat was reportedly struck by a pod of orcas. The impact against the steering wing persisted for about 45 minutes, causing serious damage and resulting in water ingress that compromised stability.
Despite the combined efforts of the captain, the crew, and rescuers from the search and rescue authorities, harbor tugs, and the Moroccan Navy to bring the vessel to port, Grazie Mamma II sank near the entrance to Tangier Med harbor. The company confirms that the crew is safe, in good health, and currently located in Spain.
The image of Grazie Mamma II in its prime shows the sailboat before the sinking, a scene captured in a social media photograph shared by observers.
Frequent attacks on sailboats
Orca encounters involving sailboats in the Strait of Gibraltar and Galicia have been documented since July 2020. Researchers and marine scientists are actively studying why cetaceans appear along that corridor, a route used by migrating populations during certain seasons, while others form transient groups in the area.
The rising concern over these incidents has led to collaboration between the Conservation, Information, and Research Organization for Marine Mammals and the Ministry of Ecological Transition. The aim is to map orca movements with precision and to develop a weekly regional overview that helps mariners anticipate and mitigate risks.
Circe reports that tracking orca activity will reveal recent movement patterns, enabling authorities to share actionable information with mariners. The objective is to reduce interference with navigation by advising vessels at risk to adjust routes or timing where possible.
Images captured from the Bosphorus area show the orcas in proximity to boats, underscoring the need for cautious navigation in these waters. Mariners are urged to stay alert and follow official advisories to minimize potential encounters.
Terrain and seasonal factors appear to influence the frequency of these events. The latest updates stress that the goal is not to sensationalize but to provide practical guidance that enhances safety for crews at sea. Informed decision making is essential when operating in zones where orca populations are known to frequent—especially during peak summer movement periods.
Experts emphasize that while some incidents have caused damage to vessels, the overall aim remains prevention. Guidance includes maintaining secure steering arrangements, preparing for rapid emergency response, and coordinating with coast guard services when navigating high-risk routes. For mariners, the core message is clear: be prepared, stay informed, and adjust plans to prioritize safety over schedule whenever wildlife activity is detected in the vicinity.