Last year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) levied fines on four large yachts. These yachts were charged for travelling at speeds greater than 10 knots in the right whale management areas.

Penalties for the violations range from $9,000 to $11,500. This year, the NOAA has reminded recreational boaters to mind their speed for right whales or face penalty. Steps are being taken for whales, especially for North Atlantic right whales that are critically endangered.

Their western North Atlantic population now stands at just around 450. This month, the whales will migrate from off the coast of Florida and Georgia to feeding areas in the Gulf of Maine and northern Atlantic.

As per the rules, boats that are 65 feet or larger have to travel at 10 knots or less through the management areas. Those who violate the rules could be fined as much as $13,200. NOAA officials said that the boaters are always advised to remain cautious of whales, as more of them are expected during the spring and summer months.

Due to their migration, many whales can turn up at busy shipping lanes in San Francisco at the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary west of the Golden Gate Bridge. Therefore, there are more chances of collision.

Gray whales are more likely to collide with boats, as they travel by the shore and could even enter the Bay. The officials said that boaters should look for a gray whale's blow, which can be visible above water.

Whales may come towards the surface and blow for around three to six minutes before a long dive. It has also been suggested that boaters should never cut a whale's path and make any sudden changes in the speed or direction of their craft.