An attempt to rescue the whales which have been drawing crowds to the Gareloch will start tomorrow.
The three Northern Bottlenose Whales have been in the loch for several days, often in clear view from the shore.
But experts have become increasingly concerned about their welfare, saying they have lost weight, while activity such as tail-flapping and swimming in circles are signs of distress.
The British Divers Marine Life Rescue group has been monitoring the whales throughout, and a notice to mariners last night said a plan had been drawn up to encourage the animals to leave the area and move to deeper water – this species is usually only found deep in the north Atlantic.
The notice to mariners adds: “There will be approximately six vessels involved in the process.
“Nav warnings are expected to be issued by the coastguard. Vessels operating in the area are requested to keep clear of the operation and not impede their progress, navigating the operation at slow speed and with particular caution.”
Operation Joint Warrior, a major international military exercise, is due to start this weekend, with vessels arriving on the Clyde from tomorrow.
The Ministry of Defence says it has been in contact with the whale rescue group and it is prepared to amend the programme for the exercise to take account of whales – they have frequently been seen near to the Faslane naval base from which the exercise will be conducted.
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