Developed by the Association Des Voiliers En Polynesie (AVP – The Association of Sailboats in Polynesia), the “EcOcean” Code of Good Conduct aims to define the rules of good conduct for sailors in French Polynesia.

AVP is an association with 200 members and yachts and was established to share information and work with authorities at a legislative level with regards to boating practices and activities throughout the archipelago.

AVP spokesperson Olivier Meurzec said the intent of the Code of Good Conduct was to inform about local good practices and regulations, improve cruisers’ image with local residents and hence be recognized by authorities and local populations as good citizens.

“One goal (of the Code of Good Conduct) is to counter the current trend towards restrictions as is apparent against the sailing community in French Polynesia, by showing our ability to self regulate and reduce the need for very rigid regulations. AVP cannot just be a spectator of the degradation of its image, nor should it be passive towards behavior it does not condone”, Olivier told Noonsite.

Detailed Documentation:

The charter will be backed by detailed documentation and information in order to elaborate why the points treated are critical, and how it is possible to implement them.

AVP will endeavor to provide simple and cost effective solutions where appropriate to upgrade the boat to match the relevant requirements.

Subscribing to the charter will grant the right to fly a flag showing one’s commitment to it.

Olivier explains further – “The charter will be dynamic and evolve in cooperation with other partners involved in boating in French Polynesia. As such, it will take into account suggestions from all actors which may wish to contribute in order to reduce the impact of boating on the topic that concerns them. These actors (partners) can be environmental protection associations, government or administration bodies, or anyone who is interested in the process the charter advocates, as long as their suggestions are coherent with our vision and not restricting freedom unduly.”

The full content of the charter can be found at EcOcean Code of Good Conduct.

Related Links:

• Association des Voiliers en Polynesie

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The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the view of Noonsite.com or World Cruising Club.