Explore this section to find information and resources designed to support managers and regulators
Explore this section to find information and resources useful to anyone interested in learning more about responsible whale watching throughout the world
Explore this section to find information and resources useful to whale watching tour operators and guides or other industry professionals
Click on one of the icons to the right to reveal a full description of the species with photos and labeled illustrations useful for species identification, as well as information on biology, ecology and conservation status of each species. Click here to find downloadable PDF fact sheets for each of the species featured on this site.
Explore this section to find links to downloadable PDF reports, species ID guides, a table of guidelines and regulations from around the world, a glossary of whale-watching terms, and a fully searchable database of over 300 reports and peer-reviewed articles on whale watching.
This Handbook is designed to support managers, regulators, operators and anyone interested in whale watching. It is a flexible and evolving tool incorporating international best practice, educational resources and a summary of the latest, relevant scientific information. Content has been drafted and sourced in consultation with IWC and CMS affiliated scientists and managers from around the world, and is reviewed each year at the meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission.
Whale watching offers a unique opportunity to see cetaceans in their natural environment from land, air or sea. However, it has the potential to disturb their behaviour or cause them injury. Responsible operations will minimise potential impacts and offer you a quality experience with a strong educational element. They may also provide social and economic benefits to the local community. This section provides you with some tools to help select a responsible whale watching experience and learn more about the animals you will be watching.
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