The rise in vessel traffic along the British Columbia Coast has negatively impacted cetaceans, altering their behaviors and endangering their survival. Large and small vessels disrupt crucial activities like foraging, feeding, socializing, and breeding, affecting the energy intake and population-level consequences for species like killer whales. Underwater noise generated by motorized vessels impairs the ability of whales to communicate, navigate, rest, and detect prey, leading to stress, disrupted activities, and avoidance of noisy areas.

Vessels also emit harmful exhaust and pollutants like sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and nitrogen oxides, posing risks to cetaceans. These pollutants enter their bloodstream more rapidly during diving and certain weather conditions can trap pollutants at the ocean's surface, affecting their breathing. The cumulative effect of vessel disturbance is significant, with critical habitats facing multiple recreational boaters, whale-watching boats, and heavy shipping traffic, often non-compliant with guidelines. Such disturbance incidents occur at a rate of approximately 100 per day during peak seasons, leading to population declines in other regions.

Even self-propelled vessels like kayaks can disturb cetaceans, particularly in heavily-used recreational areas. The increasing vessel traffic presents a serious threat to the conservation and well-being of cetaceans along the British Columbia Coast. Learn what measures you can take by following the Be Whale Wise guidelines while boating in BC and Washington State.