With whales spotted off the north Queensland coast, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) is reminding boaties to take care around the animals and abide by approach distances.

Whale watching regulations are in place to safeguard whales, which are a protected species in Australian waters, from potential boat strikes and other hazards.

GBRMPA Project Officer in the Species Conservation Unit Sarah Salmon said it was important to abide by the regulations for both the safety of whales and onlookers themselves.

“The regulations are there to ensure these majestic animals can go about their usual activities without being affected by human activity while also giving onlookers some provision to catch a glimpse of the animals from a safe distance,” she said.

“If in the vicinity of whales, vessels must stay at least 100 metres away from the animal and 300 metres away in the Whitsunday Whale Protection Area. Jet skis must stay at least 300 metres away from whales throughout the Marine Park.

“While whales can be social animals and may approach boats or people in the water, it is important for both the whales and your own safety that you do not approach them.  An adult humpback whale is between 12 to 15 metres long and can weigh up to 40 tonnes.”

There are also a range of other simple practices people should follow when boating in the Marine Park during whale season:

• Be alert and watch for whales at all times
• Keep a lookout and avoid disturbance to mother whales and their calves, especially from May to September
• Reduce your vessel speed to minimise the risk of collision in areas where whales have been sighted
• Abide by approach restrictions - vessels must stay at least 100 metres away from the animal and 300 metres away in the Whitsunday Whale Protection Area, and jet skis must stay at least 300 metres away from the animal throughout the Marine Park
• Be quiet when you are around a whale
• Do not get in the water if you see a whale - if you are already in the water do not disturb, chase or block the path of a whale and if possible, return to your vessel.
• If there is a sudden change in whale behaviour, move away immediately
• Report sick, injured, stranded or dead whales to the EPA Hotline 1300 130 372.