BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Deputy Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the 13-knot “whale waters" vessel speed limit around Sturgess Island is being lifted. This change is effective beginning at 5 AM Saturday September 3rd.
As of September 3rd, the following whale waters areas remain in effect:
* The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Willoughby and Francis Islands implemented on August 3rd.
* The 13-knot speed limit within 1 nautical mile of Lone Island implemented on August 23rd.
* In Lower Glacier Bay, the 13-knot speed limit remains in effect, and vessels 18-feet or more in length are required to remain at least 1 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. 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.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
