Whales, Boats and Other Watercraft

The number of whales and their calves in our inside BC waters has been increasing every year. This provides all of us, whether on the water or from shore, with some spectacular shows and viewing opportunities. Their interactions with boats or other watercraft is not always a good one though. We frequently hear about vessels getting too close to whales which not only disrupts their feeding, movements, ability to take a breath, and species specific interactions, but can also be a serious threat to their wellbeing and lives. Vessel strikes are a real concern with the slower moving whales, such as Humpbacks in particular, but also happens with the faster moving Orca and Dolphins. And vessel strikes seem to be happening every year now. They cannot always get out of your way fast enough, if they even realize your direction of travel. It’s up to you for prevention and safety.

There are regulations in place for keeping your distance from whales, dolphins, porpoise, and all marine mammals. These regulations are in place to prevent harrassment or injury, and apply to all types and size of watercraft. But the best thing anyone on the water can do is to pay attention. And when you notice a blow, slow down, or better yet, stop and enjoy the whale breath, albeit a bit fishy smelling. Be aware there is seldom just one whale, even if you didn’t see the others right away. These whales are frequently foraging and travelling in groups; Humpbacks usually in two’s or three’s, Orca in their family pods, even if they are spread out from one another, and Dolphins and Porpoise in groups that can range from a couple to over a thousand.

Enjoy your time on the water and be safe, for yourself and the whales!

The Federal Government (DFO) issued the following statement about watching Orca in the wild: “Vessels must stay 400m away from all killer whales in southern BC coastal waters between Campbell River and just north of Ucluelet until May 31, 2024.” For all other areas of B.C. outside of the area indicated above, a minimum distance of 200-m must be maintained when viewing Orca OR while viewing any Cetaceans that are resting or with a calf. When viewing whales, dolphins, and porpoises under other circumstances not described above, a minimum distance of 100-m must be kept.
A great resource for up to date Canadian or US regulations: Be Whale Wise Guidelines

WOWs works throughout the year, so please continue to keep your eyes open, and report your sightings to us.