Full Breakdown
Surge of Humpback Whales Near Maine Coast Triggers Boater Safety Advisory
7/16/2026, 11:31:34 AM
Recent Sightings and Advisory Context
The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) has documented an “unusually large number of” humpback whales close to shore from Port Clyde to Jonesport. Reports of the animals have risen sharply over the past week, prompting DMR to issue a public safety notice for recreational boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and fishermen operating in the affected waters.
Official Guidance for Boaters
DMR advises vessels to keep a minimum distance of 100 feet—preferably 300 feet—from humpbacks. Boaters should reduce speed to at least 10 knots when whales are suspected nearby, allowing both parties time to react. The department also recommends steering clear of visible spouts or bubble clouds, which may indicate a feeding whale. Fishermen are urged not to cast or troll in these bubble patches; if a cloud appears, they should haul in gear when possible to avoid collision risks. The guidance stresses that close encounters can injure whales, damage vessels, and even cause capsizing.
Legal Protections Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act
All whales in U.S. waters are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits harming, injuring, killing, chasing, or harassing marine mammals. Violations can result in fines up to $35,000 and up to one year of imprisonment. The Act defines harassment as any activity that alters a whale’s natural behavior, including feeding.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have also received reports of boaters coming in close proximity to these whales,” — Maine Department of Marine Resources
- “One hypothesis is that there's a lot of feed in the water,” — Jeff Nichols, DMR spokesperson
- “All whales are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.” — Maine Department of Marine Resources
- “When a whale collides with a vessel, it can be gravely injured and die from its injuries.” — Maine Department of Marine Resources
