Operational Guidelines When in Sight of Whales

The following procedures are intended to help boaters avoid accidentally violating the Marine Mammal Protection Act & Endangered Species Act. NOAA's Northeast Regional Office first developed whale watching guidelines in 1985. Revised guidelines were then published in 1999 (click here for Notice of Availability).  These procedures should help to prevent harassment of large whales and collisions (dangerous to both whales and humans) that can result from irresponsible whale watching practices.

Approaching Distance Click each zone on the left to view recommended operational procedures *REMINDER* Violations of the Marine Mammal Protection Act and/or the Endangered Species Act may result in civil or criminal penalties (up to $50,000). To report illegal activities, contact the NOAA Fisheries Service's Enforcement hotline: 1-800-853-1964. Additional Information Whale SENSE Coming Soon Protection Guidelines for Recreational Boaters & Fishermen Right Whale Regulations Whale Watching Guidelines See a Spout Watch Out Dolphin Watching Guidelines Seal Watching Guidelines

Last Updated: September 3, 2009