What is the best way to avoid disturbing wildlife while boating?

Maintaining a slow speed and keeping a distance is the best way to avoid disturbing wildlife while boating. When boats move quickly, they create more noise and wake, which can startle animals and disrupt their natural behavior. By moving at a slow speed, you can minimize your impact on the environment, allowing wildlife to feel safe and undisturbed. Keeping a respectful distance from animals not only helps to keep them calm but also reduces the risk of potential harm to both the wildlife and the boaters.

Turning the engine off and floating silently may be effective in certain situations, but it does not always guarantee that you won't disturb wildlife if you are already too close or if there are changes in water currents or other boats nearby. Shouting to inform animals of your presence is counterproductive, as noise can alarm them, potentially leading to stress or fleeing. Following other boats closely can also increase disturbance, as the wake and noise from clustered vessels can be more disruptive than a single boat traveling at a safe distance.