The Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime has said that boat operators could face punishment if they put species at risk
The public have been warned not to get too close to whales and dolphins.
Police Scotland have said they have received a number of reports of boats approaching cetaceans.
This has led to the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime Scotland to call for boat operators to respect marine wildlife or risk criminal conviction.
Sergeant Andrew Mavin said: “We’ve received several reports of boat operators getting far too close to cetaceans, sometimes apparently following them to get a good photograph.
“These animals are extremely powerful and people shouldn’t get too close for obvious reasons; there is also a possibility of injury to the animals themselves from boats and other marine craft.
“There are clear guidelines available for watching marine wildlife, so ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
“I encourage anyone witnessing a suspected crime to contact police Scotland on 101 as soon as possible.
“Details of the boat or craft are essential to help us identify the operator.”
