BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the July 20th temporary whale waters area within 1 nm of shore between Point Carolus and Lars Island is being replaced with a 13-knot vessel speed limit for all vessels in the Lower Bay designated whale waters. Previously, humpback whales had primarily been feeding along the western shoreline of the Lower Bay, but recent sightings indicate that at least 20 humpback whales are distributed throughout the entire Lower Bay. These updated operating requirements, shown on the enclosed map, are effective from 5 AM Tuesday July 25th until further notice. In addition, the following whale waters areas remain in effect for all vessels:
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A 13-knot speed limit in Whidbey Passage, including Fingers Bay.
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A 13-knot speed limit within one nautical mile of Willoughby Island.
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In the Lower Bay, vessels over 18 ft in length are required to remain at least one nautical mile from shore or mid-channel.
Speed and course restrictions in whale waters are intended to reduce the disruption of feeding humpback whales and to lower the risk of whale/vessel collisions, as authorized by Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Subpart N, 13.1174. Vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale. Boaters are advised to verify whale waters designations prior to entering Glacier Bay by telephoning (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.
Tags: whale waters news release press release
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service