Boaters are reminded to stay outside the No-Go Sanctuary Zones established in the Gulf Islands to protect Southern Resident killer whales (Orcas) and to abide by the reduced speed zones around Swiftsure Bank. Boaters have received hefty fines for illegally entering the Sanctuary Zones and exceeding the allowed speed in Speed Restricted Zones.

Two Interim Sanctuary Zones are expected to be established again by Government Canada for the 2025 boating season – vessel traffic is prohibited from June 1 through November 30 on the southwest shore of North Pender Island, and the area off the southeast end of Saturna Island – see the maps below. Both restricted areas are charted and shown on current Canadian charts, but not on U.S. NOAA charts which overlap this border area. The zone off Saturna Island carries a “notation” only. It’s easy to miss these restricted areas on charts. Older charts are missing these restricted areas altogether. Boaters must do their due diligence to avoid accidentally entering zones that are seasonally or permanently closed to vessels.

Transport Canada Pender Island Map showing no-go interim sanctuary zone

Note also that there is a voluntary speed reduction zone in Tumbo Channel between Tumbo Island and the northeast side of Saturna Island.

Transport Canada Map Saturna Island showing no-go interim sanctuary zone and voluntary speed zone in Tumbo Channel

Speed Restricted Zones are in effect June 1 to November 30. All vessels must stay under 10.0 knots over ground in the two speed restricted zones near Swiftsure Bank, shown on the map below.

Transport Canada Map Swiftsure Bank Speed Zones

Consequences. Government agencies have been using AIS track information to detect incursions and identify offending boats and owners. Communications by the Coast Guard are often heard over VHF Radio warning boaters that they have strayed into a restricted area, but Transport Canada seems to have made it a practice to send registered letters after the fact, imposing fines of up to $250,000, and/or threatening a summary conviction of not more than a $1,000,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 18 months. This is serious business and boaters should maintain situational awareness at all times. Waggoner recommends using the most up-to-date charts, with all restricted operating areas noted. Posting a reminder at the helm of your vessel is also recommended. The Waggoner Guide lists restricted speed zone areas as well as sanctuary zone no-go areas.

Maps by Transport Canada