At DFDS, our awareness of how our ferry and logistics activities impact
biodiversity is growing. We are taking essential steps to protect marine life in
the Mediterranean around the Southern part of Greece, a critical habitat for
endangered sperm whales.
Sofie Lindegaard, Head of Group Sustainability, explains, "Our responsibility to
the marine life in the waters we operate is crucial. We want to ensure that our
operations respect the different ecosystems."
"Working closely with NGOs is an invaluable way to get insights into important
and sometimes unknown areas and constructive input on how to address it," Sofie
adds.
Together with a coalition of NGOs, including IFAW, Ocean Care, Pelagos Cetacean
Institute, and WWF Greece, DFDS has developed initiatives to reduce vessel-whale
collisions in the Hellenic Trench in Southern Greece:

  * Route Adjustments: We have redefined our vessel routes to avoid high-risk
    areas known for frequent sperm whale sightings.
  * Slow Steaming: We have limited vessel speeds in these high-risk zones to
    minimize the potential of collisions.
  * Spotting and Reporting: We have initiated a policy encouraging all Masters
    to maintain vigilance, identify whales, and communicate sightings promptly
    to DFDS vessels and other ships in the vicinity.

Kemal Bozkurt, VP for Operations, Mediterranean, has been part of developing
these changes and sheds light on the crew's response. "The crews have understood
and supported the importance of these conservation efforts, which require
heightened vigilance and the maintenance of reduced speeds in high-risk zones."
While the route adjustments and slow steaming have extended our trip durations,
the impact has been minimal: "On average, we are seeing an increase of 15-30 min
per leg, which allows us to prioritize the protection of animals without
disrupting our schedules."
The changes will not have a big impact on our customers; Kemal ensures: "Our
customers' experiences remain a top priority. So while there may be slight
adjustments to our schedules, most will not affect our customers. And if they
do, we have made efforts to communicate the reasons behind these changes."
The changes apply to vessels calling Pendik, Trieste, Sete and Yalova.
About DFDS
DFDS provides ferry and transport services in and around Europe, generating
annual revenues of around DKK 27bn.
We deliver high reliability to over 10,000 freight customers through ferry &
port terminal services and transport & logistics solutions.
For millions of passengers, we provide safe overnight and short sea ferry
services.
Our 12,000 employees are located on ferries, terminals, distribution centres,
and offices across more than 20 countries. DFDS was founded in 1866,
headquartered in Copenhagen, and listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen.
Â