Operation Living Fjords
Defending Pilot Whales and Other Dolphins in the Faroe Islands
Pilot Whale Defense Campaign
Operation Living Fjords
Sea Shepherd was first activist group in the Faroes in 1983, with further direct-action campaigns in 1985, 1986, 2000, 2011, 2014 and 2015. Then due to vessel restrictions directed at Sea Shepherd as well as new Faroese legislation preventing interventions from any activists against the grindadrap, Sea Shepherd sent land-based crew to the islands every year since 2016 to investigate, document and shine a spotlight on the reality of the hunts.
In September 2021, after the Faroese massacre of 1428 Atlantic white-sided dolphins shocked the world, Sea Shepherd teamed up with Shared Planet to form Stop the Grind, a global coalition bringing together like-minded politicians, public figures and NGOs to demonstrate broader resistance to the Grind through political, economic, and scientific means.
2025 Campaign
A Call for Change in the Faroe Islands Campaign
January 2025 -- Protecting whales and dolphins has always been at the heart of Sea Shepherd’s mission. It’s more than just a cause—it’s a responsibility that requires deep reflection, humility, and a willingness to adapt to circumstances and time. The Faroe Islands hold a unique place in this work, where tradition meets change and global advocacy intersects with local realities. As we continue to strive for an end to Faroese whaling, it’s crucial to acknowledge both the progress made and the flaws in the past, while striving to build a future rooted in effective collaboration. Commentary by Valentina Crast, Faroe Islands Campaign Lead.
Latest News
The Grinds of 2025
This list will be updated as grinds are documented throughout the year:
1. January 10th: Árnafjarðarvík (53 killed; unknown number of juveniles and pregnant whales)
2. June 12th: Leynar - Pregnant Pilot Whales and Calves Slaughtered in Faroe Islands Hunt (247 killed; 13 juveniles 25 fetuses)
3. July 5th: Two Grinds in One Day in Faroes—One Whale Killed While Giving Birth
Suduroy (40 killed; unknows number of juveniles and pregnant whales); Bøur (55 killed; 4 fetuses)
Follow the latest Grind Alerts on the Sea Shepherd Føroyar FB Page