The whale warning flag lets you know that whales are in the area. It is a reminder for you to slow down and be prepared to adjust course. By flying a flag in the presence of whales you are helping to alert your fellow boaters prompting them to slow down and follow Be Whale Wise.
The flag promotes a consistent unified message throughout Pacific NW coastal waters to promote good boating practices around whales, be they humpback whales, minke whales, transient or resident killer whales.
Get your own flag and become a whale steward today!
Whale Warning Flags are available in Washington State and British Columbia. The flags are free in Washington State (a shipping and handling fee may apply) and available for purchase in British Columbia. If you are interested in obtaining a Whale Warning Flag, please contact one of the following vendors and organizations:
Canada:
Washington:
How the flag works
If you see a flag:
- Whales are in the vicinity of the boat or land station flying the flag.
- Slow down to 7 knots or less
- Maintain compliance with Be Whale Wise Guidelines and laws.
- Turn off fish finders and/or depth sounders
If you have a flag:
- When you encounter whales within 0.65 miles (1km) of you raise the flag
- Slow down to 7 knots or less
- Maintain compliance with Be Whale Wise Guidelines and laws
- Turn off fish finders and/or depth sounders.
Want to learn more? Visit the San Juan County Marine Resources Committee to know more!
