Digital Whale Chart Released for Shipping Industry
The World Shipping Council and Hub Ocean launched a new digital tool to help protect whales from commercial vessel traffic.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Transportation
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The World Shipping Council and Hub Ocean have released a digital version of the Whale Chart to increase global accessibility for whale protection measures. The tool provides critical information on legislation and voluntary safety protocols for commercial vessels.
Why it matters
Protecting whales from commercial shipping is complicated by the fact that protective measures vary significantly across different international jurisdictions and regions. This digital integration helps crews easily navigate complex regulations to prevent collisions and harm.
The digital chart replaces the static document first published in 2023 to provide real-time updates on protective regulations. It covers diverse measures ranging from speed restrictions to underwater radiated noise management.
The players
World Shipping Council
The World Shipping Council is a trade association that represents the liner shipping industry and advocates for global maritime policies.
Hub Ocean
Hub Ocean is a non-profit organization dedicated to using data and digital technology to promote the sustainable management of the world's oceans.
The details
The tool acts as a digital overlay that displays marine wildlife information and legal requirements directly within commercial vessel operational systems. It includes routeing advice, avoidance areas, and speed mandates designed to reduce harm to whales worldwide.
Timeline
The initial Whale Chart was first published in 2023.
The digital version of the Whale Chart was released in October 2026.
Market Landscape
This release follows the trend of digitizing maritime compliance data to streamline global shipping operations. It positions the shipping industry toward greater technological integration to meet international environmental and conservation standards.
Shipping companies adopting this tool may face changes to their standard operating procedures regarding route planning and speed. These digital requirements help ensure fleets remain compliant with regional whale protection laws to avoid legal penalties and ecological harm.
The takeaway
Digital tools are increasingly bridging the gap between complex global environmental regulations and day-to-day maritime operations. Mariners should ensure their shipboard systems are updated to include this new resource for safer navigation.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Transportation as digital tools reshape international shipping logistics.
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