#boat strike

Boating safety highlighted after untimely death of dolphin yearling off Kauaʻi, humpback calf off Lānaʻi

So far in 2024, NOAA has received six confirmed reports of vessel strikes to humpback whales in Hawaiʻi. Within the span of a few weeks in February, a Hawaiian spinner dolphin yearling and a humpback whale calf stranded dead in Hawaiʻi. Both of their injuries were consistent with vessel strike, according to NOAA.

Boaters urged to slow down, steer clear of whales in Hawaiʻi waters

With increased whale activity around the islands, NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and state managers remind boaters to be on the lookout for humpback whales and their calves.

Hawai‘i Humpback Whale Season Underway, Mariners Urged to Maintain Safe Distance

While some whales have already arrived, the majority will be in Hawai‘i between January and March. Iconic humpback whales in Hawai‘i are protected by state and federal agencies. Approaching humpback whales when on or in the water within 100 yards or within 1,000 feet by air (including drones) can impact the animals and is illegal.

Latest Turtle Hit by Boat is Euthanized; 22 Boat Strikes in 2020 Raises Alarm

Unfortunately, most sea turtles struck by boats do not survive. This year only one turtle was sent to the Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute for Rehabilitation before being released back to the ocean to live another day.