Why The Yachter is affiliated with GEPY and what’s in it for you
9 May 2025
The difference between GT and UMS in professional yachting
9 May 2025
Legal and environmental issues for skippers
In the Mediterranean, Posidonia meadows are a priority ecosystem to be preserved. Since the implementation of the European Habitat Directive and national regulations, respect for these habitats is a legal obligation for all skippers. The legal framework now imposes direct civil, criminal and environmental liability; we explain why we must avoid anchoring on Posidonia.
Risks related to non-compliance with regulations :
- Fines of up to €150,000.
- Arrest or detention procedures.
- Registration in the maritime criminal record, affecting access to certain jobs.
- Costly rehabilitation of degraded seabeds.
Recent case law following a mooring on posidonia
In 2021, the captain of a 30-meter yacht was fined €100,000 for anchoring in a Posidonia meadow near Saint-Tropez. This offence, detected by drone, led to the vessel being immobilized for several days.
The use of environmentally-friendly navigation assistance technologies is therefore becoming an essential skill.
Donia: Geographic information system for ecological mooring management
Donia is a free mobile application that supports operational decision-making by providing high-resolution marine cartography integrating sensitive ecosystems.
Key features :
- Identification of substrates (sand, rock, seagrass) via satellite imagery.
- Visualization of prohibited or restricted areas for anchoring.
- Integration of environmental parameters (weather, currents).
Best practice: Include Donia consultation in your route planning and during active standby upon arrival in the area.
Navily: Collaborative environmental risk management
Navily offers a community-based approach to the selection of eco-responsible anchorages, complementing Donia’s objective analysis.
Key features :
- Directory of over 15,000 European anchorages with bottom characterization.
- Feedback on outfit quality, safety and environmental impact.
- Community designation of environmental protection zones.
Professional tip: cross-reference Navily and Donia data to optimize your choice of anchorage.
Best practices for sustainable mooring
- Integrate digital tools into environmental monitoring.
- Wet only on sandy substrate or on ecological trunk.
- Analyze weather conditions to prevent skidding and avoid forced anchoring.
- Raising crew awareness of respectful anchor handling.
Conclusion
Mastering the ecological and technological challenges of anchoring is now a key skill for all professional skippers. Donia and Navily are essential tools to integrate into your preparation and navigation.
To become a recognized and responsible professional, sign up today with The Yachter and test your eligibility for our STCW training courses : Captain Master 200 GT, 500 GT and 500 GT Unlimited.
