Vessel speed restrictions during season of cetaceans

Republic of Panama has issued a Circular to warn vessels of commencement of speed restriction season in order to help reduce the risk of lethal strikes with cetaceans.

Ships should proceed at a speed of not more than 10 knots from 01 August to 30 November every year in compliance with Circular SN.1/Circ.326 dated 23 May 2014. This recommendation applies to both traffic lanes of the Traffic Separation Scheme in the Gulf of Panama, north of latitude 08°00'.00 N.

A Member Government should ensure that in its consideration of the issue of reducing and minimizing the risk of ship strikes of cetaceans it takes into account all interests: those pertaining to its biological objectives, those of relevant government agencies, scientists and researchers, the shipping community, port authorities, environmental non-governmental organizations, and other interested stakeholders.

RELEVANT DOCUMENTS:

Speed restriction by season of cetaceans in national waters