BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Joni Seay announced today the lifting of the 13-knot vessel speed limit in Whidbey Passage and around Willoughby Island. Recent whale monitoring surveys of the area indicate that few whales are still feeding there. The 13-knot speed limit and 1 nm from shore or mid-channel course restriction remains in place in Lower Bay Whale Waters due to continued whale use of the area. In addition, as shown on the attached map, a new whale waters area establishing a speed limit of 13 knots through the water within 1 nautical mile of South Marble Island was announced to protect several humpback whales that have been feeding regularly in this popular tourist area. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Saturday July 13 until further notice.
Vessels approaching South Marble Island are recommended to further reduce their speed and take time to determine whether any whales are in the area, ensuring that they maintain the required distance from whales. Vessels are prohibited from operating within ¼ nautical mile of a humpback whale in Park waters, including those Park waters outside Glacier Bay proper. Vessels positioned within ½ nautical mile of a humpback whale are prohibited from altering their course or speed in a manner that results in decreasing the distance between the whale and the vessel.
Boaters should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present because whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale. 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. 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.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
