Responsible Whale and Dolphin Watching

To see whales and dolphins in their natural environment is a powerful, moving experience and one that underlines the importance of protecting these remarkable creatures.

We know that well run whale and dolphin-watching trips inspire respect for the animals and action to help protect them, so we work hard to help develop responsible whale watching around the globe.

At least 10 million people go whale watching every year - the best trips encourage and aid conservation - the worst put whales at risk. We help to gain better regulations, train whale watch operators and help supporters and the public look out for ways to help improve such operations.

Through our own travel wing out of the blue, we lead the way in responsible whale and dolphin watching.

Dolphin SMART The Dolphin SMART programme aims to promote responsible viewing of wild dolphins in the Florida Keys. 2008-May-21

WDCS Whale Watching Reports WDCS has been publishing reports on the development of whale and dolphin watching since the early 1990s. These pioneering reports have set the standard for those seeking to understanding the true value of responsible whale watching. 2008-February-29

See A Spout The 'See a Spout' programme is a responsible whale watching product of WDCS, other NGOs and the USA's NOAA Fisheries and Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS) 2008-March-15

WDCS Policy On Swimming With Dolphins Dolphin interaction programmes, from touching and feeding, to swimming in the dolphin's environment, be it captive or wild, are increasing in range and popularity. WDCS has several serious concerns about these practices, which are summarised here. 2008-February-26

WDCS And Whale Watching Why is WDCS interested in whale watching? After all, it's just an industry, established, like any other, to make money. How does it benefit the animals? 2008-February-26

A Good Whale Watch A good whale watch trip is one which is not only enjoyable, educational and safe for the passengers, but also treats the whales and dolphins being watched with care and respect, and this means the minimum of intrusion. 2008-February-26