The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) will be making temporary schedule adjustment to the Lynn Ferry service through at least April 29 following the recent implementation of a Right Whale Dynamic Management Area.
The ferry’s main transit route operates in Broad Sound where the North Atlantic right whale, a critically endangered species, has been sighted. Fewer than 360 individuals remain, and federal law requires government agencies take every action necessary to prevent harm to endangered species.
One of the leading causes of death for right whales is vessel strikes, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The agency has issued guidance that vessels in Broad Sound reduce speed to 10 knots. Ferry trip times between Lynn and Boston will more than double.
Four trips were cancelled on Tuesday, and the Lynn Ferry began operating on a modified alternate schedule on Thursday. Inbound trips from Lynn will depart Lynn at 7:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. One outbound trip will depart Boston at 5:45 p.m.
The MBTA will make further adjusts as necessary based on NOAA updates.
Right whales are listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, and International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.