Whale Waters Update for Glacier Bay Effective July 17, 2026

Contact: Sean Perchalski, Chief Ranger, 907-697-2230

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Joni Seay announced today a vessel speed limit of 13 knots through the water on the eastern side of the Lower Bay designated whale waters, to protect numerous humpback whales that have been feeding in this area. The attached map shows the boundary of the new Whale Waters area. The updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Friday July 17th until further notice.

The designated Lower Bay Whale Waters (defined in 36 CFR Subpart N,13.1174), include the waters extending from the mouth of Glacier Bay to a line drawn between the northern tip of Strawberry Island and the northern tip of Lars Island. This boundary is shown on NOAA nautical charts of Glacier Bay. Annually from May 15-September 30 in the Lower Bay Whale Waters, a 20-knot speed limit is in effect and vessels 18 ft or more in length are required to remain at least 1 nautical mile from shore or maintain a mid-channel course. The new 13-knot speed restriction applies to the eastern side only, as shown on the map below.

Boaters should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present because whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale. Vessels are prohibited from operating within ¼ nautical mile of a humpback whale in Park waters, including those Park waters outside Glacier Bay proper. Vessels positioned within ½ nautical mile of a humpback whale are prohibited from altering their course or speed in a manner that results in decreasing the distance between the whale and the vessel. If a vessel accidentally approaches within ¼ nautical mile of a humpback whale, operators must immediately slow to 10 knots or less and alter course away from the whale. 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.

Boaters are advised to verify whale waters designations prior to entering Glacier Bay by telephoning (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.