News Release

Whale Waters Update Effective 10 September 2022

News Release Date: September 9, 2022

Contact: Matthew Cahill, Public Information Officer, 907-697-2230

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA  – Glacier Bay National Park and Deputy Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that the 13-knot “whale waters” vessel speed limits around Lone, Francis, and Willoughby Islands are being lifted due to a drop in whale sightings in these areas. These changes are effective beginning at 5 AM Saturday September 10^th.

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 [phone] or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.