It's the wildlife that draws most visitors to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska, and those enjoying the park this week are probably getting opportunties to view humpback whales that summer in the 65-mile-long bay.

According to park staff, at least a dozen humpback whales, include three cow-calf pairs, are feeding in the bay. Because their presence puts them at risk of collisions with cruise ships, the park is requiring vessels in particular areas of the bay to travel at a speed no greater than 13 knots through the water. 

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 (907) 697-2627 or by contacting KWM20 Bartlett Cove on marine VHF radio.