Out here,
there's time
Go Slow for Those Below.
Florida's coastal waters are home to sea turtles year-round. But boats are hitting them, and most don't survive.
Your speed makes the difference. More and more boaters are slowing down in voluntary sea turtle protection zones. Find yours.
Turtles are being hit by boats. Slow down and be a part of the solution.
Healthy sea turtle populations mean healthy water. Green turtles keep seagrass beds thriving. Leatherbacks keep jellyfish in check. Nesting turtles are part of what makes Florida's coast a remarkable place to live and visit. Sea turtles are doing work that benefits everyone who loves being out here. Unfortunately, among sea turtles found dead or injured in Florida, boats are the leading cause.
1 out of 4
sea turtles found dead or injured in Florida were hit by a boat.¹
53%
of all known boat-related injuries occur in our Florida waters.¹
The majority of sea turtles hit by a boat don't survive¹.
What Boaters Can Do…
Know your local voluntary protection zones.
These zones highlight areas where sea turtles are most likely to be hit by boats.
Go as slow as safely possible in voluntary protection zones.
Slower speeds give sea turtles more time to avoid your boat.
See Your Zone Now
Reasons Behind the Zones
Voluntary sea turtle protection zones are informed by scientists using data on boat activity, turtle sightings, and locations where boat-struck sea turtles were found. Passes and inlets, where boat traffic is concentrated, are especially high-risk areas.