NIMMSA’s Code of Conduct
NIMMSA’s Code of Conduct outlines shared expectations for how members operate on the water and interact with marine mammals and other mariners.
A Standard for Responsible Marine Operations
NIMMSA’s Code of Conduct is grounded in professional training, situational awareness, and respect for marine life and the places where members operate.
The Code aligns with Canadian laws and Be Whale Wise guidance, while also reflecting region-specific practices for Northern Vancouver Island. When situations fall outside specific guidance, members are expected to act with care, professionalism, and respect for wildlife and others on the water.
Viewing Guidelines
Key practices that support responsible marine mammal viewing and reduce disturbance on the water.
| Practice | What to Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Keep a Safe Distance | Maintain required approach distances and avoid positioning vessels in ways that restrict an animal’s movement. | Distance reduces stress and allows animals to move, feed, and rest naturally. |
| Slow Down Near Marine Mammals | Reduce speed to less than 7 knots within 1 km of marine mammals and minimize engine noise and wake. | Lower speeds reduce collision risk and help limit noise disturbance. |
| Approach and Depart Thoughtfully | Approach from the side and travel parallel to the animal’s direction of movement. Avoid approaching from the front or behind | Predictable vessel movement helps animals maintain their natural path and behaviour. |
| Prevent Close Encounters | Adjust course and speed early to maintain required approach distances and reduce the risk of close encounters. | Proactive distance management helps prevent mugging behaviour and reduces disturbance to marine mammals. |
| Limit Time and Cumulative Impacts | Limit viewing time and allow space for other vessels. Be aware of how multiple boats affect the same animals. | Reducing cumulative pressure helps protect animals over time, not just in a single encounter. |
Marketing & Social Media Guidelines
As part of our commitment to responsible stewardship, our members also commit to a set of guidelines applying to marketing and social media activities.
- Content should reflect responsible practices and avoid imagery that misrepresents wildlife interactions.
- Support guest understanding of responsible viewing and respectful sharing of wildlife experiences.
Additional Guideline Resources
The following external resources support NIMMSA’s Code of Conduct and provide important regulatory and best-practice guidance for responsible marine mammal viewing.
A collaborative program led by governments, researchers, and conservation partners that provides guidance on responsible marine mammal viewing and current regulations in Canada.
Federal regulations that set legal requirements for approach distances and interactions with marine mammals.
Members can contact Marine Education and Research Society to obtain a Whale Warning Flag for use during operations.
The federal department responsible for marine mammal protection, regulations, and enforcement, as well as research and stewardship initiatives.
Provides marine safety regulations and guidance related to vessel operation, navigation, and safe conduct on the water.
Guidance for safe, respectful travel along the BC coast, including Respectful First Nations Visitation Guidelines.
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