Byron Bay

Whale watching is big business these days. If you have never seen a whale in real life, it is impossible to convey the feelings that arise when you see one of these mighty leviatans jump out of (breach) the water. A mutual gasp is often accompanied by a breaching whale, as onlookers stare in amazement. I'm not sure what it is about these beautiful creatures that stirs such emotion, but it certainly is an uplifting feeling.

With such populairty inevitably comes issues surrounding overvcrowding and people trying to get too close for a better vantage point. Whilst none of this is done with a bad intent, it can have traumatic consquences for the ceteaceans themselves.

Whales are extremely sensitive creatures and anyone or thing that intrudes on their personal space can cause trauma and distress. Mothers with young calves are the most affected.

Boat owners should be aware that engine noise and approaches within a threatening distance can cause severe distress.

It is very important to follow guidelines when whale watching, as not only can it be distressing to the whales themselves, it could also be potentially dangerous for tourists. This is even more imperative when males are competing for females and the right to breed.

• At the first sign of distress or alarm, move away and leave the whales alone
• Never separate or scatter a pod of whales
• Never feed whales or throw garbage into the water near them
• Avoid loud noises while watching
• Obey general boating regulations while watching.

Motorised or not, the following boating rules also apply:

• Never approach within 100m of a whale
• Within 300m move at a constant speed no faster than the slowest whale
• Approach from behind and parallel to the direction the whale is headed
• Avoid sudden or repeated changes in speed and direction
• When stopping to watch, place engine in neutral or idle for one minute before switching off
• Maximum of three boats to observe a whale or pod at any time
• Never cut-off or box-in a whale or pod while watching, particularly when more than one boat is present
• Never approach within 300m of a mother with calf
• When leaving do so slowly at no-wake speed until at least 300m away.

Swimmers, divers and surfers can get even closer than boats and other vessels (including jetskis - though jetskis are banned in Byron Bay), but they also face the greatest risk of injury.

The safest option is to stay out of the water but if you are already in and a whale approaches, do not approach it. If anything, it may be prudent to slowly back away and allow the whale to pass unhindered.

Pilots of aircraft, including ultralights and hang gliders, should also be aware of a 300m no-go zone above or near whales. This zone is extended to 400m in the case of helicopters due to the loud noise and distressing down draft.