News Release

Whale Waters Update for Glacier Bay Effective June 13, 2025

News Release Date: June 12, 2025

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

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA  – Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Joni Seay announced today that a 13-knot vessel speed limit is being implemented in the western portion of Lower Bay whale waters. Recent sightings indicate that at least eleven humpback whales are feeding consistently in this area, putting them at risk of collisions with vessels. In addition, new temporary whale waters are being implemented within 1-nm of South Marble Island to prevent collision and disturbance for at least four whales that are feeding in this area. All vessels in these temporary whale waters are required to travel at a speed no greater than 13 knots through the water.  These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 am Friday June 13th until further notice.

Lower Bay whale waters changes:

• WEST SIDE only, as shown on map: A 13-knot vessel speed limit within 1 nautical mile of shore between the Park boundary at Point Carolus and the whale waters boundary at Lars Island near the entrance to Berg Bay.
• The rest of Lower Bay whale waters will retain a 20-knot vessel speed limit.
• In all Lower Bay whale waters, vessels over 18 ft in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or mid-channel.

New whale waters:

• A 13-knot vessel speed limit in all waters within 1 nautical mile of South Marble Island.

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. Vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale. 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.