Encounter norms, social carrying capacity indicators, and standards of quality at a marine protected area

► We examine how number and size of boats influence encounter norms at marine areas. ► Data were from surveys of 439 visitors at Molokini marine protected area in Hawai'i. ► Number of boats most strongly influenced norms; boat size was less influential. ► Users want fewer boats at this site and most would not accept over 15 or 16 boats. ► Implications for managing social capacities at marine protected areas are discussed.