Cruel speedboat and jetski users are continuing to harass dolphins in the River Tay, despite warnings from animal groups and the police.
Those chasing the creatures around the river have angered boat tour groups, with some operators admitting they dread the summer months.
Bob Richmond of Tay Maritime Action has conducted dolphin-watching tours in the Broughty Ferry area for years and has had several clashes with “irresponsible” thrill-seekers who chase after dolphins.
However, the skipper, who takes tourists out on The Marigot and The Badger, said most jet skiers are aware this is unacceptable and suggested it may be those coming in from nearby harbours who are to blame.
He said, “I think the local jet skiers have got the message to leave them alone but it is the others coming in from different areas that may be posing the problem.
“We often see people coming in from St Andrews Bay and the noise of the jetskis scares the dolphins away.
“A lot of the time I think they are just getting overexcited and rushing over to see the dolphins close-up.
“Everybody just needs to calm down, think sensibly and drive slowly. It is all about having mutual respect.”
Dolphins can be very protective of their young and in the past few years an increased number of pups have been spotted in the Tay.
Mr Richmond said it was important for the animals to feel safe to ensure they return to the area.
He added, “They definitely seem to enjoy being in the estuary and in recent years there has been large numbers, but they can pick up engine noise from a long way away.
“We are hoping they will stay all year round but that will only happen if they are not getting spooked by irresponsible jetski or craft operators.
“If we spot any laws being broken, we have a number we can call for Tayside Police to report the behaviour.”
Tayside Police has pledged to come down hard on anybody who is caught deliberately causing distress to dolphins.
A spokesman said, “The River Tay at Broughty Ferry is visited each summer by dolphins and Tayside Police would request that people using the water give them every consideration.
“The appearance and movements of the dolphins are closely monitored by other agencies who will notify Tayside Police of any incidents where it is felt that people are harassing them.
“People out on the water should not get too close to the dolphins, or chase them and should maintain a reasonable speed when near to them.”
Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “This stretch of the Tay is home to a vast array of marine life including dolphins, seals and swans, and therefore anyone using this area for recreational purposes should do so in a considerate and careful manner.
“Dolphins in particular are highly intelligent creatures that may interact with passing boats or jetskis so we would encourage people to slow right down and pass them with care to avoid causing any potential injury or distress to the animals.”