SPECIAL ASPECTS OF SPERM WHALES AND THEIR RELEVANCE TO WHALE
WATCHING
7.1 Guidelines for sperm whale watch operators in boats
The workshop agreed, after a lengthy discussion, that the following
guidelines would provide a reasonable framework for agencies developing
regulations to control sperm whale watching in waters under their
jurisdiction. It was agreed that a distinction could be drawn between
operations observing single male sperm whales foraging in higher latitudes
(e.g. New Zealand and Norway), and groups of sperm whales at lower
latitudes. A further distinction should also be drawn between groups of
whales that are foraging and those engaged in socialising/resting behaviour.
The greatest possible care should be taken around socialising whales.
Swimming with whales:
The group agreed that this activity should not be encouraged, either for
single animals or for groups.
Approach strategy:
Maintain a good lookout (in addition to the skipper) at all times
when in the vicinity of whales; when 'above' single whales, or within a group
of whales exercise particular caution. Maintain a good lookout ahead,
reduce boat speed to 6 knots or less to minimise noise and ensure
manoeuvrability.
Use extreme caution in approaching when within 400 metres of the
nearest whale(s) , especially:
Reduce noise to a minimum.
Make no sudden changes in speed or direction.
Do not reverse (except in emergency).
Move no more than 2 knots faster than the whale(s).
When within 1 00 metres of whale(s):
Stay within a 60-degree sector behind the whale(s).
Do not exceed the speed of the whale(s).
Never approach closer than 50 metres under any circumstances.
With foraging groups generally maintain a minimum distance of 100 metres
Never approach closer than 1 00 metres to a socialising group
Do not approach unaccompanied calves
No more than 2 vessels should be within 400 metres of the whale(s)
Skippers should co-ordinate approaches from the same direction so that
the whale(s) is not penned between boats and can swim away at the
surface if it wishes.
If whale(s) approach, the vessel should be stopped, with engine in
neutral
If whale shows signs of disturbance, (i.e. any of the behaviours in Box
2 are exhibited)
vessel should stop or move away SLOWLY
Do not spend longer than 30 minutes with socialising groups.
Departure strategy
After a whale dives:
If idling, or the engine is switched off, wait five minutes before starting engine or engaging gear
Proceed slowly and cautiously for 400 metres
If already moving, continue cautiously for 400 metres.
In addition
Don't approach a whale under sail alone
Don't drift towards whales with engine switched off