Whale Samana - Regulations


Samaná Bay Whale-Watching Regulations

These regulations have been established to protect the whales in Samana Bay. The support of everyone is requested.

No more than one large boat (greater than 30 feet) and 2 small boats (less than 30 feet but larger than 23 feet) may observe any group of whales at the same time. Vessels must stay at least 270 feet/80 meters from a whale group that includes a calf and 165 feet/50 meters from adult whales. Vessels waiting their turn must remain 1,500ft/ 500 m from those observing whales.

A vessel may not stay with a whale or group of whales for more than 30 minutes. After passing Cayo Levantado, or when encountering whales at any place in the bay, boat speed should be no more than 5 knots. Put engine in neutral and wait upon reaching the regulated distance. No vessel will permit passengers to swim with the whales.