Whale Waters Update for Glacier Bay Effective October 1, 2026

News Release Date: September 29, 2026
Contact:Josh Bennoch, Acting Chief Ranger, 907-697-2230

BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA - Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve Acting Superintendent Joni Seay announced today that the 13-knot vessel speed limit in Queen Inlet and on the eastern side of Lower Bay whale waters will be removed effective October 1, 2026 at 5AM, due to a decrease in the number of humpback whales frequenting these areas. However, numerous humpback whales are still feeding in the Lower Bay. Therefore, as shown on the attached map, until October 9, 2026 at 5AM, the following restrictions remain in place in all Lower Bay whale waters:

• There is a vessel speed limit of 20 knots through the water for all vessels.
• Vessels greater than 18 ft in length are required to remain at least one nautical mile from shore or maintain a mid-channel course.

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 the attached map and on NOAA nautical charts of Glacier Bay.

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.

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