Humpback Whales in Many Areas

Many Humpback whales have been seen and reported, from the waters around Vancouver, to upper Georgia Strait and adjacent waterways, and off the north-east coast of Vancouver Island. Humpback whales can be seen while travelling on a ferry or any other water vessel, and they can be seen from shore. Their blows, which can be 3-4 meters tall, will indicate their presence and can be observed from many kilometers away. The abundance of Humpback whales in B.C. coastal areas and waterways have increased over many years, and is a great sign of the health of our marine ecosystems. There are many other areas of the province where Humpback whales can be observed. If you see Humpbacks or any other Cetaceans, let us know.

As a reminder that if you are boating and out on the water, please be aware of the presence of whales and dolphins. Signs of their presence may include blows of the Cetaceans and other boats stopped or moving slowly in an area. Boats and other water craft (e.g. kayaks) must remain at least 1-km away from Southern Resident Orca and at least 200-m away from other Orca (Transients and Northern Residents). See the full government regulation in the following paragraph.

The Federal Government (DFO) issued the following statement about watching Orca in the wild: “Keep 1,000 metres away from Southern Resident killer whales in southern B.C. coastal waters between Campbell River and just north of Ucluelet. Keep 200 metres away from all other killer whales in British Columbia (B.C.) and the Pacific Ocean”. A minimum distance of 200-m must be maintained when 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.