Everything You Need to Know About Whale Watching

Sharing is caring!

Whale in the water.

Whale watching is an activity that has become increasingly popular in recent years. More and more people are interested in getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures, but there is a lot of misinformation out there about whale watching.

In this blog post, we’ll dispel some of the myths about it and give you all the information you need to have a safe and enjoyable experience on a whale tour.

What is Whale Watching?

It is simply the act of observing whales in their natural habitat. This can be done from the shore, from a boat, or even from an airplane. Whale-watching tours have become increasingly popular in recent years as people become more aware of the plight of these endangered animals.

History of Watching Whales

The history of these tour services, like whale tours in Kona dates back to at least the 12th century when Norsemen would venture out into the open ocean to observe these creatures. However, it was not until the 20th century that whale watching became an organized industry. The first official whale watch tour took place in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in 1955.

The Trends of Watching Today

Today, it is a multi-million dollar industry with tours taking place all over the world. According to the World Wildlife Fund, over 13 million people went on a whale watch tour in 2012. The most popular whales to watch are humpback whales, which can be found in every ocean on the planet.

How to Watch Whales on Whale Tours

There are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re planning on going on a whale tour.

  • First and foremost, always book your tour with a reputable company that has experience leading tours and knows how to spot whales safely. Secondly, dress for the occasion!
  • Make sure you bring along warm clothing and binoculars so you can get a good look at the whales.
  • Finally, be respectful of these animals and their environment by keeping your distance and not making too much noise.

The Economics

The global whale-watching industry is estimated to be worth over $2 billion annually. However, there are some concerns that this industry is not sustainable in the long term. As climate change continues to affect the planet, it is likely that the populations of certain species of whales will decline. This could lead to fewer people going on whale tours and a decline in revenue for the industry.

Environmental Concerns

There are also some environmental concerns associated with it. Most notably, there is the issue of noise pollution. The sounds made by boats can disrupt the underwater communication channels used by whales.

This can cause stress for these animals and interfere with their normal behavior patterns. There are also concerns that humans may transmit diseases to whales when they come into contact with them.

Tips to enjoy whale tours

1. Get there early – try to book a tour with an early departure time so you can get the most out of your experience.

2. Wear appropriate clothing – be sure to dress warmly and in layers as temperatures can vary greatly depending on where you are going.

3. Bring binoculars – this will help you see the whales more clearly and get a better view of them.

4. Listen to the guide – your tour guide will have lots of information about the whales, so be sure to take it all in!

5. Be respectful – remember that you are in their natural habitat, so keep your distance and don’t make too much noise.

Conclusion:

Overall, it is a safe and enjoyable activity that can provide participants with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, there are some things you should keep in mind before booking a tour, such as choosing a reputable company and respecting the animals’ space.

There are also some environmental concerns associated with this industry that should be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not to go on a tour.

Sharing is caring!

Speak Your Mind

*