#whale collision

With recent reports of whales showing propeller injuries, ocean users are reminded to keep a safe distance from these annual residents of Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Collisions with vessels are a risk to both the animals and humans.

The US Coast Guard issued a reminder today of federal regulations that prohibit coming within 100 yards of whales when on the water, and 1,000 feet of them when operating an aircraft. The reminder comes as humpback whales enter the peak season in their annual return to the Hawaiian Islands.

With Hawaii’s humpback whale season underway, officials are reminding boaters and other ocean users to use caution and follow whale protection rules. Federal regulations require people to stay at least 100 yards away from the wintering whales. In the past two years, officials reported 12 cases involving violations, including approaches by swimmers, non-motorized watercraft, and […]