Whale Waters Update 23 August 2022

Glacier Bay National Park and Deputy Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the 13-knot “whale waters” vessel speed limit near Russell Island is being lifted. New temporary whale waters are being implemented near Lone Island to reflect shifting whale distribution. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Tuesday August 23rd until further notice.

New whale waters areas:                       

• A 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Lone Island                       

In addition, the following whale waters areas remain in effect:

• The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Sturgess Island, implemented on June 18th.
• The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Willoughby and Francis Islands implemented on August 3rd.
• In Lower Glacier Bay, the 13-knot speed remains in effect, and vessels 18 ft or more in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or mid-channel.

Recent observations indicate that numerous humpback whales are feeding in these areas. 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. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, and vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Boaters may verify whale waters designations prior to entering Glacier Bay by telephoning (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.

Original source can be found here.