Rules of Navigation around Beluga Whales in the St. Lawrence Estuary and Saguenay River
The St. Lawrence beluga whale is a symbolic species listed as endangered under the Species at Risk Act (SARA).
Protecting the beluga is a commitment that must be renewed throughout the year. Summer is a critical period due to calving, but in fall, winter, and spring, these marine mammals continue to face numerous threats. They are exposed to underwater noise, pollution, habitat disturbances, and the impacts of climate change.
Every action counts to ensure the survival of this unique St. Lawrence species.
Best practices on the water
If you spot one or many beluga whales, or if they approach your vessel:
Keep your distance:
Move away and keep a minimum distance of 400 metres. At this distance, a beluga can easily be mistaken for a wave or a small white spot on the water’s surface.
Limit your speed:
Do not stop, and if possible, maintain a constant speed between 5 and 10 knots.
Remember: specific regulatory measures apply
- In the St. Lawrence Estuary, the Marine Mammal Regulations.
- Within the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park boundaries, the The Marine Activities in the Saguenay St.Lawrence Marine Park Regulations.
Why These Rules Matter
Belugas change their behaviour in the presence of humans. Approaching a beluga can disrupt its rest, feeding, even the birthing or nursing of their young. Between June and September, thousands of vessels travel through their habitat—precisely when belugas are giving birth and nursing calves. All these disturbances can have an impact on the health and reproduction of beluga whales and on the survival of their young.
Protecting the beluga means acting together—and acting now. Respecting their space is a concrete and accessible action for everyone.
Simple Actions You Can Take
- Observe belugas from the shore. Many coastal observation sites allow you to admire them without disturbing their environment.
- Take the free training on Navigating Whale Habitat.
- Participate in citizen science by reporting your marine mammal sightings.
Endangered Whales
The St. Lawrence beluga is an endangered and protected species, and the only cetacean that resides year-round in the St. Lawrence.
However, during the summer, three other important species listed under SARA also frequent the St. Lawrence:
- Blue Whale (SARA status: endangered)
- Fin Whale (SARA status: special concern)
- North Atlantic Right Whale (SARA status: endangered)
When encountering these species, it is also very important to maintain a minimum distance of 400 metres.
To report an incident
If you witness any activity or behaviour that is disturbing belugas, please contact Poaching Alert by phone at 1-800-463-9057 or fill out the Online form.
When a marine mammal is stranded, injured or entangled in fishing gear, alert the Quebec Marine Mammal Emergency Response Network at 1-877-722-5346