News Release

Whale Waters Update Effective 21 September 2022

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News Release Date: September 21, 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 vessel speed limit in Lower Glacier Bay is being raised to 20 knots due to a decline in the number of whales in that area. Vessels 18 feet or more in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or in mid-channel in the Lower Bay from May 15^th - September 30^th each year. See attached map for the boundary of the affected area.

Recent surveys indicate that small numbers of feeding humpback whales are still scattered throughout Glacier Bay. Vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. 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 [phone] or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.

Tags: whale waters, regulations, humpback whale

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