REGULATIONS FOR MARINE MAMMAL WATCHING IN FRENCH POLYNESIA
Technical principles for approaching cetacean
In order to minimize stress on individual animals and the adverse effects on groups and their social behavior, the following principles must be observed.
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Reduce speed to 3 knots within a 300 m radius of the cetacean.
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Always keep the engine running and put it in neutral if the animal deliberately approaches the boat.
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Sudden changes of direction and engine speed are prohibited.
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Respect approach distances, as the courtship behaviour of large cetaceans can pose a risk to vessels.
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Keep your route parallel to the moving animals.
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Do not overtake or cross the path of stationary or moving animals.
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Do not approach unaccompanied calves.
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Never separate members of the same group.
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Never block a cetacean between reef and land.
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Do not encircle animals.
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Do not stay more than 15 minutes in the cetacean-watching area, or less in the presence of newborns.
Environmental code in French Polynesia
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Art. LP 2121-2 creating a sanctuary for whales and other marine mammals in inland waters, the territorial sea and the exclusive economic zone.
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Art A 2212-1-4 concerning exceptional authorizations to approach whales and other marine mammals in French Polynesia for scientific purposes.
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Art A 2213-1-5 à A 2213-1-8 regulating the approach of whales and other marine mammals in the waters of French Polynesia, for observation or photographic purposes.
Authorizations are required for commercial approaches to whales and other marine mammals.
Permit application forms are available:
- Paraoa teleservice (https://www.paraoa.gov.pf)
- the Environment Department (DIREN)
B.P 4562 Papeete
Tél : 40 47 66 66
Fax : 40 41 92 52
To renew your authorizations, please complete your register and send it to the DIREN.