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

A humpback whale swims just below the surface with an island in the background

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

People observe a and photograph a whale from a boat

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

A group of dolphins class=

Staff and Affiliates

Visit this page for contact information about staff members and affiliates.

A closeup of a seal's nose

Contact

Get in touch with the sanctuary