What statement best describes the risk when approaching whales near kayaks?

• A. Whales will guide you to safety
• B. There is no risk if you stay quiet
• C. They pose no danger and will leave on their own
• D. Collision risk, disturbance illegal

Answer: (D)

Approaching whales near kayaks is a situation with real risk to people and to the animals. Whales can surface and move unexpectedly, and a kayak is small and easy to caps-size or be struck by a tail, fin, or splash. Even calm whales can bolt away or rotate suddenly, creating a collision or capsizing hazard for a paddler. Beyond personal safety, close approaches disturb the whales, potentially altering their feeding, social behavior, or migration patterns. That disturbance is illegal in many jurisdictions to protect marine mammals, so maintaining a substantial distance is both a safety and a legal requirement. The statement that best describes the risk therefore combines the physical danger of collision with the obligation to avoid disturbing the animals.