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Boat Gets Too Close to Orcas, Fined $1,000
12 Dec
Summary
- Boater fined $1,000 for dangerously approaching killer whales in 2022.
- New regulations will require vessels to stay 1,000 yards from whales.
- Disturbing whales disrupts their feeding and causes stress, NOAA reports.
In 2022, a boater's close encounter with a pod of Bigg's killer whales in Bellingham, Washington, resulted in a $1,000 civil penalty. The individual's 51-foot yacht was observed operating perilously near the marine mammals, disregarding established guidelines designed to protect them. A local wildlife videographer captured the incident, providing crucial evidence that led to the penalty. This footage underscored the importance of respecting wildlife in their natural environments.
NOAA Fisheries regulations, which mandate specific distances for vessels to maintain from killer whales, were violated during the encounter. While these were not endangered Southern Resident killer whales, the proximity still posed a risk. Studies indicate that vessel traffic can interfere with the whales' ability to hunt and cause considerable stress, potentially affecting their well-being and survival.
As of December 2025, a new regulation mandates vessels to remain 1,000 yards from whales, a significant increase from previous distances. This reinforces the commitment to protecting these magnificent creatures. The incident serves as a stark reminder that maintaining distance is crucial for both human safety and the preservation of animal habitats, ensuring future generations can also witness these animals.
