A Japanese whaling fleet crew has clashed with a Sea Shepherd Conservation Society vessel in the Antarctic Ocean, Australian media reported.
The anti-whaling activists' Steve Irwin vessel and the whaling ship Shonan Maru #2 were involved in a confrontation on Monday.
"The Steve Irwin went around an iceberg, did a figure eight out of view of the Shonan Maru #2 and re-emerged within a quarter of a mile of the Japanese whaler's portside quarter catching the whalers completely by surprise," Captain Paul Watson said.
"A pursuit began and the Shonan Maru #2 turned on two water cannons. The crew of the Steve Irwin immediately responded by placing their water cannon in readiness," the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society said on its website.
According to Captain Watson, the whalers' vessel was following the Steve Irwin to keep the rest of the whaling fleet aware of its locations.
"The Steve Irwin crew were left wet, but in good spirits after the confrontation," said Third Mate Vincent Hayes.
Although, whaling has been illegal for consumption and for profit since 1986, Japan continues to hunt the creatures for "scientific research."
MOSCOW, December 15 (RIA Novosti)
