Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve announced today that the 13-knot vessel speed limit is being removed from Whidbey Passage. In addition, the lower West Arm whale waters area is being replaced by a 13-knot speed limit around Lone Island, Geikie Rock, Hugh Miller Rocks, Blue Mouse Cove, and Jaw Point to protect whales feeding in these specific areas. These updated operating requirements are effective from 5 AM Thursday July 17th until further notice.

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve officials are asking the public for information on circumstances surrounding an apparent whale-vessel collision that severely injured a humpback whale. Vessels should proceed cautiously in all areas where whales may be present. Whales may surface in unexpected locations, posing a hazard to both the vessel and the whale.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve announces new whale waters areas in the lower West Arm and Whidbey Passage with a vessel speed limit of 13 knots to protect 25 or more humpback whales that have been feeding in this area. Additionally, in the Lower Bay Whale Waters, a 13-knot speed limit is being implemented due to increasing numbers of humpback whales.

Effective June 13, 2025, a 13-knot vessel speed limit is being implemented in the eastern portion of Lower Bay whale waters in Glacier Bay.