   New Free Online Course Helps Boaters Watch Whales Safely in Hawaiʻi - Now Available!
See a Spout? Watch Out! is a free online boater education course offered by NOAA and partners, to help boaters, paddlers, and ocean lovers enjoy the waters of Hawaiʻi while keeping koholā (humpback whales) safe and protected.
Why Take the Course?
You may not realize it, but you could be navigating waters that are specially protected for koholā (humpback whales) and their habitat. Every winter, more than 10,000 koholā travel to Hawai‘i to mate, give birth, and raise their young. Encompassing 1,370 square miles, Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary protects these whales and their habitat. Whether inside the sanctuary or not, the rules and recommendations for boating around whales are the same.
Accidental collisions can seriously harm and injure koholā, putting these incredible animals at risk. This free, 30-minute course gives you the knowledge and confidence to avoid dangerous situations and play an active role in protecting marine life. Users will receive a certificate upon completion of the course.
What You Will Learn:
- How to recognize whale behavior and activity
- Best practices for safe and responsible whale watching
- How to keep a safe distance from whales
- What to do if you encounter a whale in distress
- How to share your knowledge with fellow boaters
Whether you're a seasoned captain or just getting started, this course is a great way to protect marine life while enjoying everything our ocean has to offer.
For more information and to access the course, visit https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/visit/boating/see-a-spout.html
 On the Web:
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary: http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov
State of Hawai‘i Division of Aquatic Resources: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/
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