Allen Marine Tours has introduced a new geo-fencing technology aimed at reducing noise pollution from its tour vessels in sensitive areas throughout Southeast Alaska.
This technology, developed by Allen Marine Owner Jamey Cagle and Electronics and Parts Specialist Duane Cummings, will be implemented across the company’s entire fleet by next summer, following successful tests on three boats this year, according to a statement.
The technology automatically deactivates outdoor loudspeakers when vessels enter specific areas where noise pollution can impact local communities and wildlife.
These areas include Auke Bay and Shelter Island near Juneau, as well as Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness. The system also features a captain’s override for safety, ensuring it meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements.
“This is my home. It’s incredibly important to me and our family that we be the best neighbors we can be to all Alaska communities and that we protect our wildlife populations,” Cagle said. “I know how far loudspeaker announcements travel across open water and how disruptive that can be to both people and animals. This new technology allows us to cut that noise pollution without negatively impacting the experience for our guests.”
The introduction of this technology follows other recent efforts by Allen Marine Tours to reduce their environmental impact. Last year, the company voluntarily established no-wake and speed reduction zones around populated areas like Auke Bay and eliminated most of its “whale sighting guarantees” to reduce pressure on local waters.
Additionally, in response to the recent Mendenhall River flood, Allen Marine Tours, in partnership with the Central Council Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, donated $17,000 from a benefit cruise to support flood victims.
