News Release

Whale Waters Update for Glacier Bay Effective July 16, 2024

News Release Date: July 15, 2024

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

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA  – Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Superintendent Tom Schaff announced today that modified temporary whale waters are being implemented near the mouth of the East Arm. Recent sightings indicate that at least 12 humpback whales, including three mother/calf pairs, are feeding consistently in this area, putting them at risk of collisions with vessels. All vessels in these temporary whale waters are required to travel at a speed no greater than 13 knots through the water. Lower Bay whale waters remain the same as implemented on June 28, 2024. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Tuesday, July 16th until further notice.

New temporary whale waters:

• 13-knot vessel speed limit applies in waters within one nautical mile of shore of Muir Point, as well as within one nautical mile of shores of Sebree, Garforth, and Sturgess Islands.

Lower Bay whale waters remain the same as implemented June 28, 2024:

• East Side only, as shown on map: A 13-knot vessel speed limit within 1 nautical mile of shore of Lester and Young Islands, including Bartlett Cove and Beardslee Entrance, and extending down the mainland to Point Gustavus.
• 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.

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