REGULATIONS FOR MARINE MAMMAL OBSERVATION 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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Article LP 2121-2 establishing a sanctuary for whales and other marine mammals in inland waters, the territorial sea, and the exclusive economic zone.
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Article A 2212-1-4 relating to exceptional permits for approaching whales and other marine mammals in French Polynesia for scientific purposes.
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Articles A 2213-1-5 to A 2213-1-8 regulating activities involving approaching whales and other marine mammals in the waters of French Polynesia for observation or for photographic purposes.
Permits are required for activities involving approaching whales and other marine mammals for commercial purposes.
Application forms for permits are available: -
on the Paraoa online service (https://www.paraoa.gov.pf)
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at the Directorate of the Environment (DIREN)
P.O. Box 4562, Papeete
Phone: +689 40 47 66 66
Fax: +689 40 41 92 52
To renew your permits, you must complete your logbook and submit it to the DIREN.