Gia Lai tightens rules to protect whales from tourist impact
Gia Lai Province tightens whale‑watching rules as Bryde’s whales return, enforcing a 100 m distance, engine noise limits and a three‑boat cap to protect whales.
THE HANOI TIMES — The Central Highlands province of Gia Lai is tightening its whale-watching regulations as sightings of Bryde’s whales increase along its coast, a promising sign for marine health but a growing challenge for conservation.
To protect the endangered species, the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment now requires tour operators to keep at least 100 meters away from the whales, reduce engine noise, and limit whale-watching activity to no more than three boats at a time.
Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni) are recognizable by the three ridges on their heads and their pleated throats. They are typically found in Vietnam’s south-central and southern coastal provinces.
Bryde's whale spotted in Gia Lai Province. Photo: Mai Anh Den
Since 2022, and especially in June and July of this year, these whales have been regularly sighted along the coast, which indicates a healthier marine ecosystem with abundant food sources.
However, unregulated tourism puts the whales in danger. Fishing boats, canoes, and tour vessels approach the whales too closely, chase them for photos, and disrupt their natural behaviors.
Engine noise can interfere with the whales’ navigation and communication, while floating plastic waste poses a risk of ingestion.
To minimize harm, officials are requiring tour operators to maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters from whales and to reduce engine noise in their vicinity.
No more than three boats will be permitted in whale-watching zones at any one time to limit noise and disturbance.
Local authorities will work with fishermen and boat operators to enforce these rules and promote marine conservation awareness, particularly in areas where whales are frequently seen.
