Transport Canada’s latest bulletin provides information on vessel requirements under the Interim Order for the Protection of the Killer Whale in the Waters of Southern British Columbia, which aims to safeguard the endangered Southern Resident killer whales from vessel-related disturbances. All vessels must stay at least 400 metres away from all killer whales, and vessels must not be positioned in the path of a killer whale. There are 2 speed restricted zones, and 2 interim sanctuary zones at Saturna Island and Pender Island.
Mariners are advised to stay informed about applicable NOTMARs and NAVWARNs to ensure adherence to regulations protecting Southern Resident killer whales.
