Know before you go — Vessel flags

Know before you go — Vessel flags

Canada’s waters are home to many species of whales and other marine mammals. Protecting them is a shared responsibility. By understanding and following marine wildlife laws and guidelines, everyone on the water can help reduce disturbance and support their well-being.

While out on the water, you may see boats flying different flags that indicate which rules to follow.

Whale Warning Flag

The Whale Warning Flag indicates that whales are in the area and serves as a reminder to operate responsibly around marine wildlife.

If you see a flag:

• Follow Marine Mammal Regulations and Be Whale Wise guidelines
• Slow to 7 knots or less
• Turn off fish finders and/or depth sounders

If you have a flag:

Raise the flag when whales are within 1 km of your vessel. Remember to lower it when whales are no longer present.

Photo credit: Marine Education and Research Society

Marine Research Flag

This flag indicates that research is being conducted under a Marine Mammal License approved by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). There are specific conditions, responsibilities and reporting requirements associated with each license. If a vessel has this flag, please stay away as the research may involve approaching marine mammals closer than the minimum approach distance.

Laws and regulations

• Stay 1,000 m away from Southern Resident killer whales in southern BC coastal waters between Campbell River and just north of Ucluelet
• Stay 200 m away from all other killer whales in Pacific Canadian waters
• Stay 200 m away from all whales, dolphins, and porpoises when in a resting position or accompanied by a calf
• Stay 100 m away from all other whales, dolphins, and porpoises

Report any incidents concerning marine mammals:

Fisheries and Oceans at 1-800-465-4336 or DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Canadian Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16

Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations

For more information on the Southern Resident Killer Whale protection measures

Get your own flag.

Keeping a minimum distance from whales is the law. Getting too close could result in fines of up to $500,000 or imprisonment under the Fisheries Act or Canada Shipping Act.