Ocean Watch | Oceania

OCEAN IA

Ocean IA is deploying autonomous AI-powered cameras to detect humpback whales

in real time and alert vessels.
The goal: to reduce the risk of collisions in sensitive areas such as the Papeete and Vaiare passes.

Humpback whales return each year to Polynesian waters to mate and give birth.
Mothers and their calves stay close to reefs, passes, and lagoons to avoid predators and disturbances.
This proximity increases the risk of encounters with vessels, especially in narrow navigation zones such as passes.
In these areas, vessels have limited room to maneuver, which heightens the risk of collision.
Navigation speed is a key factor that significantly influences this risk.

Every year, whales can be observed from the shore thanks to their spouts, breaches, dorsal fins, and flukes.
Cameras installed at strategic locations focus on the Papeete pass (Tahiti) and the Vaiare pass (Moorea).
Artificial Intelligence automatically detects whales by recognizing the visible parts of their bodies.

The OceanIA team raises awareness about the risk of collisions with whales.
Close collaboration with ship operators and maritime authorities helps define an effective alert system.
Automated alerts enhance whale detection at sea.
Marine Mammal Observers on board ferries also contribute to monitoring efforts.
Many vessels from the Port Authority of Papeete are actively involved in this initiative.

Maritime traffic between Tahiti and Mo’orea accounts for over 90% of all traffic in French Polynesia.
Every day, many residents and tourists travel between the islands.
This high level of activity increases the risk of collisions with whales.
The crossing is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the causes and conditions of such incidents.
The Whale Alert app allows everyone to take part in whale sightings and help prevent collisions.