Remember that seasonal measures are coming into force in Canada shortly with measures already in place in the US and Brazil to protect whale species as they migrate to critical habitats. As whales migrate into critical habitats, authorities are activating seasonal and dynamic measures that can affect how ships transit certain areas. Check what applies on your routes – especially as new measures start from 1 June and others shift from 1 July. Canada- West Coast On the Eastern coast of Canada, voluntary measures introduced as part of the ECHO Program 2026 to protect the endangered Southern Resident killer whales will start on 1 June this year. The ECHO Program has the dual goal of minimising Underwater Radiated Noise and reducing whale strikes. For Swiftsure Bank, the Haro Strait and Boundary Pass ships are encouraged to transit through the slowdown area at, or below the following speeds through the water: 14.5 knots speed through the water or less for vehicle carriers, cruise and container ships 11 knots speed through the water for bulkers, tankers and government ships. Other measures specifically for tugs are also in effect in the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Canada- East Coast Saint Lawrence Measures on the eastern coast of Canada have been in place since 22 April. The following North Atlantic Right Whale restriction zones are in effect for all vessels greater than 13 metres in length overall: Mandatory Static Zones North and South: Vessels must not exceed 10 knots over ground Mandatory Dynamic Shipping Zones A, B, C, D, and E: check Navigational Warnings (NAVWARNS) as these are constantly being updated Mandatory Seasonal Management Areas 1 and 2: Vessels must not exceed 10 knots over ground. From 1 July these will only be in force following whale detections Voluntary Seasonal Slowdown: Vessels are kindly invited to reduce their speed less than 10 knots over ground. The status of these zones is broadcasted through NAVWARNs, which are published by the Coast Guard’s Marin