AAPA hails withdrawal of expanded right whale speed cap planAAPA hails withdrawal of expanded right whale speed cap plan
Ports were concerned about navigational safety, with pilot boats among those impacted by NOAA's proposed rule.
January 15, 2025

The American Association of Port Authorities applauded the US for withdrawing its proposed North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Reduction rule.
'Precision technology' instead
'Vessel speed restrictions, no matter how well intentioned, severely diminish the flow of commerce through our nation's gateways while also making the already difficult jobs of harbor pilots and mariners more dangerous,' AAPA President and CEO Cary Davis said. 'America's ports thank the federal government for making the right decision to withdraw the NARW Vessel Speed Restriction rule and look forward to supporting precision technology to preserve and protect marine life.'
A species nearing extinction
Current National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration regulations that limit vessels 65 feet and longer to 10 knots from November through May have been in place since 2008. In 2022, NOAA proposed additional changes that included applying speed caps to vessels 35 feet and longer, impacting pilot boats.
NOAA said North Atlantic right whales are approaching extinction with fewer than 360 individuals and 70 reproductively active females remaining.
Consistent opposition
Over the last few years, AAPA has consistently opposed the proposed rule, raising concerns before the US legislative and executive branches and collaborating with several maritime industry coalitions.
Citing navigational safety, Port Canaveral was one of the cruise ports that objected to the proposed changes.
'This is a significant win for ports, the wider maritime industry and our nation,' AAPA said Wednesday. The association expects the notification of delay will be officially published in the Federal Register Thursday.
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