Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary was created to offer protection for humpback whales. The sanctuary constitutes one of the world’s most important humpback whale habitats. Get to know the sanctuary tools, technology, and staff members.
Photo: J. Moore/NOAA, under NOAA MMHSRP Permit # 15240
About the Sanctuary
Each winter and spring approximately half of the north Pacific humpback whales, representing thousands of animals, visit the waters around the Hawaiian Islands, including sanctuary waters.
Photo: J. Moore/NOAA, under NOAA permit #14682
Vessels and Technology
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary operates R/V Koholā, a 33-foot rigid hull inflatable boat specifically designed for large whale research and entanglement response.
Photo: NOAA, under NOAA permit #18786
Staff and Affiliates
Visit this page for contact information about staff members and affiliates.
Contact
Get in touch with the sanctuary